Humanities and Western Civilization

The Humanities and Western Civilization Program at the University of Kansas offers an interdisciplinary approach to the study of the intellectual and cultural practices and traditions in world civilizations, with an emphasis on the engagement of western civilization in the history of ideas and with other cultures. The program's focus on values, ethics, and civil debate is also reflected in its emphasis on critical thinking, reading and writing, and on individualized student advising and a flexible curriculum.

The B.A. in Humanities

The BA in Humanities is an interdisciplinary degree program that provides excellent preparation for 21st century careers. Students choose from three major tracks and complete coursework in three or more humanities departments or programs. Read more...

Peace & Conflict Studies

The PCS minor is designed for students interested in careers in humanitarian aid, international relations, diplomacy, law and mediation.

The Graduate Certificate Program enhances the credentials of students seeking careers in government, international business, law and teaching. Read more...

Western Civilization Courses

Western Civilization is a two-semester interdisciplinary program centered on influential writings from ancient times to the present. It is a general education requirement for all B.A. and B.G.S. students and most B.S. students in the college, and for all Architecture, Journalism and Social Welfare students. Read more...

What is the faculty like?

HWC faculty represent a variety of humanities fields, among them Comparative Literature, English Literature, French Literature, History, Philosophy, and Religious Studies. They include senior, mid-career, and younger scholars and teachers, all holding the Ph.D. degree, with a wide range of teaching experience. Six have won major KU teaching awards including the H. Bernard Fink Award, the W. T. Kemper Fellowship, the Mortar Board Outstanding Educator Award, the Outstanding Woman Educator Award, and the Award for Leadership in International Education.

How do I get into the program?

HWC has no entrance requirements. As an incoming student, you will automatically be enrolled in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, so you can begin taking courses that satisfy your major during your first year. You become a major when you fill out a major declaration form in the program office, 308 Bailey Hall. Learn more about the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Humanities by clicking here.

Where can I get more information?

For further information, write or call the University of Kansas, Humanities and Western Civilization Program, Bailey Hall, Room 308, 1440 Jayhawk Blvd, Lawrence, KS 66045-7574. Telephone: (785) 864-3011, email: hwc@ku.edu. Or you may request information online.