Humanities

Mission Statement

The mission of the Humanities Program at Aquinas College is to instill in its students knowledge of and appreciation for the history of human cultural achievement, especially in the Western Humanistic Tradition. In keeping with the Dominican charisms of study and community, the program promotes the idea that we, as citizens of the United States and of the world, are all members of a larger cultural community, and that increasing our awareness of it enriches our human experience.
 

Humanities Learning Outcomes

In support of the Aquinas General Education program, the Humanities curriculum addresses the student learning outcomes listed below, in which the student will:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the history of the Western Humanistic Tradition
• Read critically and formulate relevant conclusions (critical thinking)
• Demonstrate proficiency in communication (reading, writing, listening skills)
• Continue to develop research and analysis skills
• Integrate knowledge of diverse perspectives and cultural traditions

Standards Statement

Standards for the course are determined by the Aquinas College General Education Program. The institution's philosophy on General Education is greatly influenced by the Essential Learning Outcomes of the Association of American Colleges and Universities. Over the years this philosophy has also been informed by such documents as the Harvard Core Curriculum Report of 1978, its Curriculum Review of 2004 and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching's Missions of the College Curriculum.