UPenn Arts and Sciences Majors

Introduction to UPenn Arts and Sciences Majors

The University of Pennsylvania’s School of Arts and Sciences offers a wide range of undergraduate majors, providing students with the opportunity to explore their interests and passions in a variety of fields. With over 50 majors to choose from, students can pursue a degree in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, or mathematics. In this blog post, we will delve into the various majors offered by UPenn’s School of Arts and Sciences, highlighting the unique features and opportunities available to students.

Humanities Majors

The humanities majors at UPenn include African Studies, Anthropology, Classical Studies, English, French and Francophone Studies, Germanic Languages and Literatures, History, Italian, Linguistics, Music, Philosophy, Religious Studies, and Spanish. These majors allow students to explore the rich cultural heritage of human civilization, developing critical thinking, writing, and analytical skills. For example, students majoring in English can take courses in creative writing, literary theory, and cultural studies, while those majoring in History can focus on specific regions, such as European, Asian, or American history.

Social Sciences Majors

The social sciences majors at UPenn comprise Anthropology, Criminology, Economics, International Studies, Political Science, PPsychology, Sociology, and Urban Studies. These majors enable students to examine the complexities of human behavior, social structures, and institutions, preparing them for careers in fields such as policy analysis, research, and social entrepreneurship. For instance, students majoring in Economics can take courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics, while those majoring in Political Science can focus on international relations, comparative politics, or American politics.

Natural Sciences Majors

The natural sciences majors at UPenn include Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Environmental Science, Mathematics, Physics and Astronomy, and Statistics. These majors provide students with a rigorous foundation in scientific principles and methods, preparing them for careers in research, medicine, and environmental science. For example, students majoring in Biology can take courses in genetics, ecology, and evolutionary biology, while those majoring in Chemistry can focus on organic chemistry, biochemistry, or physical chemistry.

Interdisciplinary Majors

UPenn’s School of Arts and Sciences also offers several interdisciplinary majors that combine courses from multiple departments. These majors include African Studies, Asian American Studies, Environmental Studies, Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies, Latin American and Latino Studies, and Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations. These majors allow students to explore complex issues and problems from multiple perspectives, developing a nuanced understanding of the world and its many challenges.

💡 Note: Students can also pursue a minor in a field related to their major, or explore coursework in a completely different area of interest.

Research Opportunities

UPenn’s School of Arts and Sciences provides students with numerous opportunities to engage in research projects, working closely with faculty members and graduate students. Students can participate in research programs, such as the Summer Research Program or the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program, which provide funding and support for research projects. Additionally, students can present their research at conferences, such as the UPenn Undergraduate Research Symposium, or publish their work in academic journals.

Study Abroad Programs

UPenn’s School of Arts and Sciences offers a range of study abroad programs, allowing students to explore different cultures and academic environments. Students can participate in semester-long programs, such as the UPenn in London or UPenn in Paris programs, or pursue summer programs, such as the UPenn Summer Abroad program. These programs provide students with a unique opportunity to broaden their perspectives, develop language skills, and enhance their academic and professional profiles.

Major	Description
African Studies	Explores the history, culture, and politics of Africa
Anthropology	Examines human behavior, culture, and biology
English	Studies literature, creative writing, and cultural theory

In summary, UPenn’s School of Arts and Sciences offers a diverse range of undergraduate majors, providing students with the opportunity to explore their interests and passions in a variety of fields. With a strong focus on research, interdisciplinary studies, and study abroad programs, students can develop a rich understanding of the world and its many challenges, preparing them for successful careers and a lifetime of learning.