University of Utah

What you'll study

This programme emphasises breadth across the humanities and liberal arts while allowing you to develop depth in areas of interest. You will typically study a mix of core general education courses and major-specific modules drawn from disciplines such as literature, history, philosophy, languages, cultural studies, ethics, and rhetoric. Common course themes include critical reading and writing, literary and historical interpretation, cultural analysis, and interdisciplinary research methods.

Programme structure usually combines:

• Foundational general education classes that build quantitative, communicative and scientific literacy;
• Core humanities modules covering major traditions in literature, history, and philosophy;
• Elective courses let you tailor the degree toward concentrations such as digital humanities, area studies, creative writing, film and media, or public humanities;
• Research and writing-intensive seminars where you complete substantial projects or a capstone demonstrating integrative learning;
• Opportunities for experiential learning — internships, study abroad, community-engaged projects and cross-college collaboration with departments such as modern languages, history, theatre, and visual arts.

Typical modules and subjects

• Introduction to Literary Studies and Critical Theory
• Cultural History and Global Perspectives
• Philosophy: Ethics and Reasoning
• Advanced Writing and Rhetoric
• Language coursework (e.g. Spanish, Chinese, French) or Classical studies
• Digital Humanities methods or media studies
• Capstone seminar or independent research project

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Utah undergraduate programmes normally requires a completed secondary school credential or equivalent. Prospective first-year applicants should present a competitive academic record in high school, including strong grades in coursework relevant to the liberal arts.

Typical expectations include:

• Completion of an accredited secondary school qualification or recognised international equivalent;
• Strong preparation in reading, writing and social studies; prior study in languages, literature or history is advantageous;
• Submission of official transcripts and any required supporting documents; standardised test scores (SAT/ACT) may be optional or considered where provided — check the university's current admissions policy;
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements through accepted tests or university-approved alternatives;
• Transfer applicants are assessed on college-level coursework and GPA; students with community college credits can often apply those credits toward degree requirements.

Admission may also consider a personal statement, letters of recommendation, or a portfolio if applying to a specialised concentration — consult the university admissions office for programme-specific guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates with a general studies or humanities-focused liberal arts degree pursue a broad range of careers because of their strong skills in analysis, communication and cultural literacy. Common career paths include:

• Education and academic support (teaching, tutoring, educational programme coordination);
• Writing, editing and publishing roles; content development and communications for public and private organisations;
• Public service, community outreach and non-profit programme management;
• Marketing, public relations and organisational communications;
• Human resources, policy analysis and administrative leadership;
• Entry into graduate and professional programmes such as law, social sciences, library science, or advanced humanities study.

Internships, study abroad, and department-led experiential projects enhance employability by providing workplace experience and professional networks. Many graduates combine the degree with certificates or minors (e.g. digital media, business foundations, languages) to target specific career sectors.

Why study at University of Utah

The University of Utah is a comprehensive research university in an urban setting with active humanities and liberal arts faculties across multiple colleges. Studying here gives you access to experienced scholars, interdisciplinary course offerings and research resources such as libraries, archives and digital humanities facilities.

The campus location provides connections to cultural institutions, a vibrant arts scene and public-sector organisations, supporting internships and community partnerships. Small seminars and advising from faculty help students design personalised pathways through the liberal arts, while campus-wide opportunities — including study abroad, leadership programmes and career services — help translate academic learning into real-world outcomes.