Liberal Arts Undergraduate Curriculum

a student examines architectural drawings on large white pieces of paper

RISD requires all undergraduate students to take a third of their classes in Liberal Arts. These courses teach you to articulate ideas with independence and confidence, encourage you to think creatively, critically and analytically, and foster a lifelong curiosity about the world.

Graduation requirements

To meet your Liberal Arts requirements, you will take courses from three of our departments: History, Philosophy, and the Social Sciences (HPSS), Literary Arts and Studies (LAS) and Theory and History of Art and Design (THAD), as well as elective courses of your choosing that can be in any undergraduate Liberal Arts department, including our science (SCI) electives and liberal arts electives (LAEL).

If you started at RISD before September, 2024 you are required to take 14 liberal arts courses to graduate. If you started after, the requirement has been updated to 13 courses. For help with understanding your requirements, reach out to your Liberal Arts advisor.

For the full breakdown of your Liberal Arts graduation requirements, follow the link below.

Liberal Arts undergraduate graduation requirements

Search Liberal Arts courses

Undergraduate concentrations

Each year, more than 150 RISD students pursue concentrations in Liberal Arts. Within the established concentration curricula you have the freedom to follow diverse interests and meaningfully shape how liberal arts learning can complement your studio work.

Concentrations at RISD are similar to “minors” at other colleges and universities. HPSS, LAS and THAD offer concentrations that allow for a more focused program of study within their departments, while fulfilling your Liberal Arts undergraduate requirements. You also have the option to pursue an interdisciplinary liberal arts concentration in Nature-Culture-Sustainability Studies (NCSS).

To view concentration offerings and requirements, follow the links below.

close up of student analyzing a work of art in a liberal arts environment
History, Philosophy and the Social Sciences (HPSS)

As an HPSS concentrator, you shape an individual course of study around one of the department’s nine established tracks focused on the psychological, social, political, philosophical and cultural aspects of life. 

Students-sitting-around-table-during-LAS-class.
Literary Arts and Studies (LAS)

LAS draws on a wide range of literary traditions, genres, periods and theoretical approaches to literature and writing. Concentrators develop sophisticated critical thinking, reading and writing skills, along with a strong writing voice and understanding of literature’s role in world culture.

Student in field of flowers doing research.
Nature–Culture–Sustainability Studies (NCSS)

NCSS provides an opportunity for students to shape individualized courses of study focused on interdisciplinary environmental learning in an art and design context. Through the 21-credit concentration, you can focus on biomimicry, emerging technologies, global warming, hybridity and sustainability, among other options.

Student taking notes amongs stacks of paintings in a museum.
Theory and History of Art and Design (THAD)

Embracing a range of media and perspectives, THAD stresses critical thinking and analysis. Concentrators gain clarity of written and verbal communication and learn artistic expression’s historical and cultural value.

Want to learn more? Our Admissions team is here to help.

RISD first-year students are curious, creative thinkers from all over the world. If you’re interested in becoming part of our unique learning community, find important application information below including application links, deadlines and requirements.

Apply to RISD

Get to know RISD

Close up of a first year EFS student putting the finishing touches on their charcoal drawing
First-Year Admissions

At RISD, you’ll find a community of critical thinkers and makers that will inspire you to push your own practice. Find eligibility and application requirements, financial aid options, upcoming events and more.

RISD Beach view of Carr Haus
Campus tours and visits

If you’re interested in RISD, join us for an in-person info session and student-led tour. You’ll learn more about our community and campus, and get answers to your questions along the way. 

RISD undergraduate students observe a piece of student artwork in a classroom setting
Undergraduate study

In addition to a bachelor’s degree, here you earn deep disciplinary knowledge, strong critical thinking skills and the agility to problem solve and connect the dots across a wide range of fields.