Liberal Arts

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At RISD the exploration of both studio arts and liberal arts makes for a powerful experience. In fact, RISD stands out among art schools for its emphasis on liberal arts study. Doctorate-level faculty lead diverse classes spanning anthropology, biology, creative writing, literature, history, performance studies, philosophy, religion, sociology and more.​

Liberal Arts departments

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History, Philosophy and the Social Sciences (HPSS)

HPSS offers a wide variety of courses on the nature of human life, past and present. The curriculum spans many disciplines, from anthropology and religion to political science and American studies.

Two student at table during liberal arts class.
Literary Arts and Studies (LAS)

The courses students take in LAS provide a basis for engaging in culture as artists, designers, writers, performers and citizens.

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Teaching + Learning in Art + Design (TLAD)

Offering a Master of Arts (MA) and Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), this graduate-level department fosters innovative teaching in art and design within and beyond traditional education settings.

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Theory and History of Art and Design

Spanning time periods and embracing diverse perspectives, THAD courses offer a deeper understanding of artistic expression across cultures and throughout history.

Interdisciplinary graduate programs

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Global Arts and Cultures (GAC)

Uniting the humanities and social sciences with studies in visual, performative and literary arts, GAC fosters inquiry into making in relation to systems of power and resistance.

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Nature–Culture–Sustainability Studies (NCSS)

Working closely with Liberal Arts faculty, NCSS MA students develop expertise in the growing field of interdisciplinary environmental studies. In addition, undergrads interested in NCSS may elect it as an undergraduate concentration.

In the classroom

Liberal Arts at RISD provides a strong general education, offers possibilities for focused study and deepens and enriches art and design practice. Through liberal arts study you learn to articulate ideas with independence and confidence, think creatively, critically and analytically, and develop a lifelong curiosity about the world.

students observing professor's presentation during a liberal arts class
students during HPSS class

Get to know RISD

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Liberal Arts MA Programs

Explore our Liberal Arts grad programs—Global Arts and Cultures and Nature–Culture–Sustainability Studies.

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Undergraduate study

Gain creative expertise toward your bachelor’s degree in one of our globally recognized art and design programs.

Brown University campus
Brown + RISD

Learn about the unique Brown|RISD Dual Degree Program and other benefits of our ties with Brown University.