Boise State University

What you'll study

This programme emphasises interdisciplinary study across the humanities and related social sciences. You will take courses that develop core skills—academic writing, research methods, critical reasoning and information literacy—alongside disciplinary courses in literature, history, philosophy, languages, cultural studies, religious studies, and arts and media. The degree is intentionally flexible: students build a coherent plan of study from required general-education elements, a set of humanities-focused core courses, and elective clusters or emphases that reflect their interests (for example literature and cultural studies, public humanities, or humanities plus social policy).

Typical course topics include:

• Introductory and advanced literature seminars (American, British, world literatures)
• Historical methods and regional histories
• Philosophy and ethics
• Creative and professional writing
• Language study (Spanish and other language offerings)
• Cultural theory, media and digital humanities
• Research methods in the humanities and an independent capstone or senior project

Students may complement their programme with electives or minors from complementary departments (for example communication, political science, sociology, or business) and can pursue internships, community-engaged projects, study abroad, or undergraduate research to apply classroom learning.

Entry requirements

Applicants must meet Boise State University’s undergraduate admission standards. Typical applicants present a high-school diploma or equivalent (or recognised international qualification) and academic records demonstrating readiness for college-level work. Standardised tests may be optional depending on university policy; applicants should consult admissions for current guidance. Transfer students submit college transcripts and may be eligible to transfer credit toward the degree.

International applicants must meet the university’s English-language proficiency requirements through recognised tests or approved alternatives. Applicants to the programme should also work with an academic advisor to develop a programme plan that demonstrates a coherent set of humanities and general studies courses.

Career prospects

A liberal arts and humanities degree prepares graduates for diverse career paths where critical thinking, clear communication and problem-solving are valued. Graduates commonly move into:

• Education and teaching (including preparation for teacher training or graduate study)
• Communications, public relations, publishing and journalism
• Nonprofit and community organisations, program coordination and advocacy
• Government and public policy roles
• Business roles in marketing, human resources and customer relations
• Library, museum and cultural heritage work
• Preparatory study for law, library science, graduate humanities and interdisciplinary master’s programmes

Hands-on experiences—internships, practicum placements, capstone projects and collaboration with campus career services—help students build portfolios and professional networks relevant to these paths.

Why study at Boise State University

Boise State offers a supportive environment for interdisciplinary humanities study, with access to faculty across arts, humanities and social sciences who emphasise teaching and mentorship. The campus’s location in the state capital and a growing urban region provides opportunities for internships and community partnerships with cultural institutions, government agencies and nonprofits.

The programme’s flexibility is well suited to students seeking a personalised curriculum—whether combining work and study, exploring multiple disciplinary interests, or preparing for advanced study. Students benefit from academic advising that helps shape a clear plan of study, plus opportunities for experiential learning, undergraduate research and study abroad to deepen both academic and practical skills.