University of Massachusetts Amherst

What you'll study

This programme combines core liberal‑arts training with choices across literature, history, philosophy, languages, cultural studies and related social‑science perspectives. You will build skills in close reading, argumentation, research methods and multi‑disciplinary analysis.

• Core modules: academic writing and research methods, introduction to humanities inquiry, critical theory and approaches to culture.
• Discipline modules: options typically include American and British literature, comparative literature, world history, philosophy, religious studies, film and media studies, linguistics and modern languages.
• Electives and breadth: opportunities to take courses in art history, theatre, music, anthropology, sociology and digital humanities to broaden perspectives.
• Capstone or senior project: many students complete a substantial research paper, practicum or creative project that synthesises interdisciplinary learning and demonstrates independent research skills.
• Optional pathways: study‑abroad semesters, internships with cultural organisations, and collaborative research projects with faculty in humanities centres and institutes.

Entry requirements

Admission is to the University of Massachusetts Amherst undergraduate programme; entry to this particular major normally follows university admission plus declaration of the major according to departmental processes. Applicants should demonstrate a strong secondary‑school academic record with substantial coursework in English and humanities subjects.

• Prospective first‑year applicants: a completed high‑school diploma or recognised equivalent, a competitive academic profile, and evidence of ability in reading, writing and critical thinking. Standardised tests may be optional depending on admission policies.
• Transfer applicants: official college transcripts showing successful university‑level coursework, typically with a minimum cumulative GPA and completion of general education or introductory humanities courses.
• International applicants: proof of secondary qualifications equivalent to U.S. high school completion and, where required, English language proficiency demonstrated by recognised tests or institutional measures.
• Additional materials: personal statements that explain academic interests and goals are commonly required; letters of recommendation and portfolios are only necessary where specified by a particular interdisciplinary concentration.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with transferable skills valued across sectors: writing and communication, critical analysis, research, cultural literacy and project management. This degree supports a wide range of career directions.

• Typical entry‑level roles: editorial and publishing assistants, communications and marketing coordinators, programme officers in cultural or nonprofit organisations, research assistants, and community outreach roles.
• Further study: many graduates proceed to postgraduate study in fields such as literature, history, cultural studies, education, library and information science, public policy or law.
• Other pathways: careers in advertising, public relations, human resources, museum and heritage management, government and advocacy, and digital content production.

Why study at University of Massachusetts Amherst

UMass Amherst is a comprehensive research university with a strong commitment to the humanities and interdisciplinary study. Students benefit from a wide range of departmental expertise, resources and experiential learning opportunities on campus and in the region.

• Faculty and research: access to scholars working in diverse areas of literature, history, philosophy, digital humanities and cultural studies, with options to join research projects and faculty‑mentored work.
• Facilities and collections: extensive library holdings, special collections and archives that support original research and capstone projects.
• Experiential learning: partnerships with local museums, cultural institutions and community organisations, plus support for internships and public humanities work.
• Student support and careers: academic advising, writing centres, and career services that help translate liberal‑arts skills into employment and postgraduate opportunities.