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African American Studies

Explore history, culture and justice as you learn about Black literature, politics, music and social movements while gaining the skills to lead, advocate and inspire change. Program Summary  African American studies provides focus on the experience of African Americans and...
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American Studies

Uncover the stories, struggles and big ideas that shaped the U.S. while you explore culture, politics, race, gender and more — past and present. Build skills to think critically, communicate clearly and make an impact in whatever path you choose....
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Anthropology

Your curiosity about people, cultures and what makes us human drives you. Explore everything from ancient civilizations to today’s global challenges. Dig into big questions, learn to think across cultures and gain skills that open doors to careers around the...
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Artificial Intelligence (Liberal Arts)

Explore how humans and artificial intelligence (AI) interact, what it means to live in a digital society and how fairness plays a role in emerging technology. Shape the future of AI — from ethics to marketing — no coding required....
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Asian Studies

Explore the many dimensions of Asia — from politics and religion to pop culture and global trade. Develop skills in language, research and international awareness to prepare for exciting careers with a global impact. Program Summary  Dive into the rich...
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Chinese Studies

Explore China’s rich history, politics and pop culture, while gaining global skills that set you apart. Whether you’re interested in business, diplomacy or travel, this major opens doors around the world. Program Summary  Immerse yourself in the language, stories and...
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Classical Studies

Through the study of language, literature, philosophy and art, you’ll build timeless skills in critical thinking, writing, and analysis — preparing for careers in law, education, museums and beyond. Program Summary  Explore interrelated disciplines and develop an understanding of the...
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Communication

Dive into the power of words, images and media to influence, inspire and inform — while building strong communication skills and exploring how media shapes culture and public perception. Program Summary  As a communication major at Purdue, learn how to...
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Comparative Literature

Comparative literature highlights global stories, big ideas and deep thinking. Explore literature, film and culture from around the world while sharpening your writing, analytical and language skills. Program Summary  As a student in comparative literature, explore world literature not just...
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Creative Writing

Empower your voice and bring your imagination to life with creative writing. Join a community of writers as you craft poems, stories and books — guided by experienced authors. Develop skills in creativity, editing and collaboration while exploring new ideas...
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Digital Criminology

Dive into the world of online crime — where technology meets justice. Explore digital forensics, online scams, hackers, and digital threats. Learn how technology, law, and investigation work together to fight crime in the digital age. Program Summary  Digital criminology...
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Economics

Explore how people, businesses and governments make choices. Learn to think critically, use data to solve complex problems and prepare for careers in business, law, government and beyond. Program Summary  Economics helps you understand how the world works — how...
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English

Explore classic and contemporary English literature from around the world. Develop new perspectives, grow your voice as a writer, and build critical thinking skills — all in a classroom that inspires creativity and confidence. Program Summary  Cultivate a deeper understanding...
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Film and Video

Explore writing, directing, editing and cinematography while mastering the art and technology of visual storytelling. From commercials and live sports production to big screen blockbusters — pursue your interests in film and video. Program Summary  In film and video, blend...
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French

Master the French language, explore timeless literature and dive into the vibrant traditions of French-speaking regions worldwide. Gain skills that connect you to diverse cultures and new ways of thinking through hands-on learning and global perspectives. Program Summary  Within your...
A a student with a backpack near the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin in Germany, looks at the sights.

German

Explore the language, culture and history of German-speaking countries. Build fluency, study influential literature and thought, and connect with global perspectives.  Program Summary  Focus on German literature, linguistics, culture and film, while enhancing your language studies. With concentrations in education...
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Global Studies

Explore cultures, politics and issues from around the world while building skills in research, communication and critical thinking. Experience a bold, multidisciplinary path for curious minds ready to think on a global scale. Program Summary  Our global studies education focuses...
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History

Bring the past to life while sharpening how you think about the world today. Explore turning points, big ideas and everyday lives across time and cultures — from ancient civilizations to modern movements, see how history influences today’s society. Program...
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History of Science, Technology and Medicine

Explore how discoveries, inventions, and medical breakthroughs have shaped the world. Trace the impact of science and technology on everyday life, global events and cultural change. Connect ideas across history, health and society. Program Summary  In the history of science,...
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Italian Studies

Immerse yourself in the richness of Italian language and culture while building fluency and a deep understanding of Italy’s global influence. Through engaging with literature, film, art and history, develop critical communication skills and cultural insight that prepare you for...
A student walks into bamboo forest in Ariyishiyama, Kyoto, Japan

Japanese

Master the Japanese language and immerse yourself in its rich culture, from ancient traditions to modern innovations. Gain the skills to navigate global business, diplomacy and media while building a deep understanding of a society that shapes technology, entertainment and...
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Jewish Studies

Study ancient texts, modern movements and the impact of Jewish thought on the world. Gain a deeper understanding of the intersection between religion, politics and social justice, while discovering how Jewish traditions continue to influence the world today. Program Summary ...
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Law and Society

Explore the dynamic intersection of crime, law and society. Study issues such as criminal justice, human rights and public policy while gaining insight into how laws influence social change. Build a strong foundation for careers in criminal justice, law enforcement,...
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Linguistics

Explore how languages evolve and how speech, sounds and structure influence meaning. Gain skills in research, translation and language technology, and prepare for careers that bridge communication and culture. Program Summary  In linguistics, dive into the scientific study of languages...
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Music

Create, perform, and produce music that spans genres and styles, while deepening your understanding of music’s history, theory and cultural impact. Along the way, you'll hone your craft through hands-on experience with instruments, voice, and production tools — preparing you...
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Philosophy

Explore the big questions of life, reality and ethics through the lens of great philosophers. Analyze ideas from history’s most influential thinkers and explore how philosophy shapes today’s world. Develop critical thinking, problem-solving and writing skills while diving into debates...
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Political Science

Dive into the forces that shape our world — from laws and policies to global challenges and political movements. Discover how decisions are made, how societies are governed and how leaders drive change. Build sharp analytical skills and gain the...
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Pre-Professional

Prepare for the career you’ve always dreamed of with one of our pre-professional programs. Combine academics, real-world experiences and personalized advising to give you a competitive edge when applying to your future graduate or professional degree program. Program Summary  Pre-professional...
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Professional Writing

Write with clarity, purpose and impact across industries. Develop skills in technical, medical, scientific and environmental communication. Edit with precision and publish with confidence. Explore how writing shapes understanding in a complex, connected world. Program Summary  Our professional writing major...
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Religious Studies

Explore different religious traditions and how these beliefs shape human actions and views of the world. Gain a critical appreciation of diverse faiths and their impact on society. Develop a deeper understanding of how religion shapes cultures, ethics and human...
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Russian

Dive into the language, history and culture of one of the world’s most influential regions and examine global issues through a new lens. Study literature, film and politics while building strong language skills. Program Summary  The Russian major offers a...
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Sociology

Explore what drives human connection, how communities evolve, and why societies change. You’ll dig into the forces that shape behavior, influence beliefs, and spark change—gaining the tools to better understand and impact the complex world around you. Program Summary  Sociology...
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Spanish

Explore the beauty and depth of one of the world’s most spoken languages. Engage with diverse cultures through literature, history and conversations. Master reading, writing and speaking Spanish with confidence. Program Summary  As a Spanish major, engage in courses designed...
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Theatre

Explore the world of acting, directing, stage design and storytelling. Build skills in collaboration, creativity and stagecraft while bringing characters and stories to life. Dive into hands-on experiences, from rehearsals to opening night, and immerse in the exciting world of...
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Visual Communication Design

Bring ideas to life at the intersection of creativity and technology. In this major, master digital media, typography and user experience to design powerful visual stories that resonate. From sleek interfaces to dynamic graphics, shape the future of communication through...
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Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies

Explore the powerful impact of gender, identity and sexuality on culture, society and history. Dive into thought-provoking discussions, study social justice movements and examine the experiences of women and marginalized groups. Analyze literature, politics and activism while developing a deep...
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