Rollins College

What you'll study

The programme provides a broad liberal arts curriculum grounded in the humanities, combining literature, history, philosophy, languages and cultural studies with skills-based courses in writing, research and digital methods. Students take a mix of required core courses that develop critical reading and argumentation, thematic humanities seminars, and elective modules that allow depth in areas such as American and world literature, intellectual history, ethics, film and media studies, museum studies, and translation.

Typical components include a first-year writing seminar, intermediate and advanced disciplinary seminars, a methods course in qualitative research or digital humanities, language study, and a senior capstone or thesis where students complete an independent research or creative project under faculty supervision. The programme encourages cross-disciplinary learning, so students commonly take electives in related social sciences and arts, and may combine the major with minors or certificates such as creative writing, museum studies, or public policy.

Entry requirements

Rollins uses a holistic admissions process. Prospective first-year applicants should present a strong secondary-school record demonstrating breadth and depth of study, a personal statement or essay, and one or more letters of recommendation. Standardised test submissions (SAT/ACT) are considered according to the College's current testing policy; check Rollins' admissions guidance to see whether submitting scores is optional or recommended.

International applicants must provide evidence of secondary-school completion that is equivalent to the US high-school diploma and demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or approved alternatives if their prior instruction was not in English. Transfer students should submit college transcripts and a brief outline of coursework completed; successful transfer applicants typically show good academic standing at their previous institution.

Career prospects

A liberal arts and humanities degree from Rollins prepares graduates for a wide range of careers that value clear communication, critical analysis and contextual thinking. Common fields include education, publishing and editing, journalism, marketing and communications, museum and arts administration, non-profit and public service, and cultural programming. Graduates also pursue roles in business development, human resources and community engagement where interpretive skills and writing are prized.

Many students continue to professional or graduate study in areas such as law, library and information science, public policy, creative writing, and doctoral research in humanities disciplines. The programme’s emphasis on internships, applied projects and faculty-mentored research helps students build a professional portfolio and practical experience to support job entry or further study.

Why study at Rollins College

Rollins offers a personalised liberal arts experience through small class sizes, close faculty mentorship and a curriculum that links classroom learning to community and professional engagement. Located in Winter Park with easy access to the Orlando region, students benefit from internship and cultural opportunities including partnerships with local museums, theatres and organisations.

The College supports experiential learning with dedicated advising, career services, and opportunities for undergraduate research and study abroad. Humanities students can make use of campus resources such as the Cornell Fine Arts Museum, the Olin Library, and faculty-led colloquia and public programming that bring contemporary debates and historical perspectives into the classroom. These resources combine to give students both the intellectual foundation and practical experience employers and graduate programmes seek.