COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES GRADUATE PROGRAM

Mike Digby, Interim Dean of the School of Liberal Arts & Sciences
Olufunke A. Fontenot, Assistant Dean

Linda Irwin-DeVitis Dean of the John H. Lounsbury School of Education
Carol Bader, Assistant Dean

MISSION

The College of Arts and Sciences provides the focus for the University's statewide liberal arts mission. The fundamental mission of the College is to promote critical reflection and the advancement of knowledge by teaching the Core Curriculum; by offering comprehensive major programs for students; and by encouraging excellence in teaching, scholarly activity, and service on the part of faculty. Students are challenged to address the analytical, historical, cultural, and philosophical foundations of their disciplines, to think critically and creatively, to act with ethical and aesthetic awareness, and to communicate effectively in a free and open exchange of ideas.

The College of Arts and Sciences provides academic programs in the fine and applied arts; the humanities; the behavioral and social sciences; the physical, biological, and mathematical sciences; educator preparation and other various professional fields. As the foundation for the University's Core Curriculum and the College's baccalaureate and graduate degrees, these programs offer students the opportunity to experience the interdisciplinary nature of the liberal arts, develop competence in traditional liberal arts disciplines, and embark upon programs of professional study.

The College of Arts and Sciences encourages scholarly, artistic, and creative activities that promote the expansion of knowledge and excellence in teaching and service. Involvement within the community is also encouraged through cooperative partnerships with the public and private sectors, fine arts programming, and faculty activities. The College provides an environment in which academic freedom and responsibility exist in a community of learning and shared governance.

The College of Arts and Sciences is dedicated to fostering an awareness of the cultural and ethnic differences and commonalities found among the communities of the world. The College of Arts and Sciences is committed to educating students to be responsible citizens of a democratic society.