RISD distinguishes itself among art schools by emphasizing the value of liberal arts studies as a complement to studio work. A firm grounding in the liberal arts will give you, among others things, a confident grasp of historical, cultural and social contexts; a strong critical vocabulary; skill in critical thinking and research; and an improved ability to express yourself in speaking and writing.

The Division of Liberal Arts includes three departments: English, History of Art + Visual Culture (HAVC), and History, Philosophy + the Social Sciences (HPSS). Each department also offers a “concentration” – a concentrated program of study for students interested in focusing their liberal arts studies within one of the departments.