Curriculum
In addition to completing the units required for a given major, Pacific Humanities Scholars take a series of seminars that cultivate their talents and shape their future. Students also complete the University of the Pacific's General Education program, which includes our nationally acclaimed Pacific Seminars.
Special projects and field trip opportunities round out the Pacific Humanities Scholars curriculum, including annual visits to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, trips to galleries and museums, and other opportunities to engage with the humanities outside of the classroom.
Curriculum Components
- Year One:
In the first-year seminar, students explore individual and collective modes of expression across the Humanities. Students enjoy exposure to a wide range of cultural enrichment activities, from world-class opera performances to intimate, one-on-one sessions with visiting scholars and artists. This academic and experiential approach cultivates an understanding of the Humanities as a profound force in human civilization.
Freshman scholars also take a four-day trip with their cohort to Ashland, Oregon in the Fall, allowing them to make close connections with their classmates and see the humanities come alive at the nationally acclaimed Oregon Shakespeare Festival. - Year Two:
Building on the first year's experiences, the second-year seminar emphasizes the role of cognitive science, philosophy, and technology in the pursuit of social justice. Focusing on the applications of the Humanities in the Digital Age, the seminar challenges students to engage with social issues facing a global society through theoretical and practical modes of problem solving.
In the second year of the program, students enjoy an increased focus on internships tailored to their professional goals and networking opportunities with local and national employers, giving students the edge in a highly-competitive marketplace. - Year Three/Four:
In the final third year (or optional fourth year) of the program, scholars are encouraged to take on independent projects-such as undergraduate research, film projects, and creative writing portfolios-to further explore how the humanities factor into their future career goals. Upperclassman Humanities Scholars often take on leadership roles within the Pacific community and pursue internships and career development programs off-campus. Throughout their final year(s) in the program, our scholars are supported and encouraged by faculty as they transition into their career or pursue further study after graduating from Pacific.