Indiana University of Pennsylvania

What you'll study

This programme combines a core liberal studies curriculum with a tailored selection of humanities and general studies courses. You will take modules in areas such as literature, history, philosophy, cultural studies, writing and rhetoric, and introductory social sciences. The structure emphasises critical thinking, written and oral communication, research methods, and qualitative reasoning.

Typical course topics include:

• Introduction to Literary Analysis and World Literature
• History of Ideas and Cultural History
• Philosophy and Ethics
• Writing and Composition (academic and professional genres)
• Interdisciplinary Methods and Research Techniques
• Media and Communication Studies
• Electives in foreign language, visual arts or digital humanities
• Capstone seminar or senior project that integrates learning across disciplines

Students can personalise the degree by choosing elective clusters—for example, combining humanities courses with public history, museum studies, education foundations or communication—to match career goals. Opportunities for internships, community-based projects and study abroad are commonly used to gain applied experience.

Entry requirements

Admission to the bachelor’s programme typically requires a completed secondary school diploma or equivalent and submission of official academic transcripts. Applicants may be asked to provide a personal statement or academic writing sample that demonstrates preparedness for university-level humanities study.

Transfer applicants are considered on the basis of college transcripts and prior coursework. International applicants should demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised examinations or institutional evidence when English-medium credentials are not available. Additional materials such as letters of recommendation may be requested for specific advising pathways or scholarship consideration.

Career prospects

Graduates with a general studies and humanities focus develop adaptable skills valued across many sectors: critical reading, persuasive writing, cultural literacy and project management. Common career paths include:

• Communications, public relations and media support roles
• Education (classroom teaching with appropriate certification routes, paraprofessional roles, educational support)
• Non-profit and community organisations, including outreach and programme coordination
• Government and public service, policy support and constituent engagement
• Museum, archival and cultural heritage assistant positions
• Business roles that require strong written and interpersonal skills, such as human resources, marketing or client services
• Preparation for graduate study in fields such as law, library and information science, education, cultural studies or humanities disciplines

Many graduates combine the degree with internships, certificates or additional training to enter specialised professions.

Why study at Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Indiana University of Pennsylvania offers a liberal arts environment with experienced faculty who teach across humanities disciplines and emphasise small-group discussion and writing-intensive coursework. The university supports interdisciplinary study through advising that helps students build purposeful elective clusters and connect coursework to careers or graduate study.

Students benefit from campus resources such as subject-specific libraries, a writing centre, career services and opportunities for applied learning through regional internship partners. The programme’s flexible design makes it a strong option for students who want a broad humanities education, the ability to customise their degree, and clear pathways to both employment and further academic study.