Help and advice for
incoming freshmen:
freshman.affairs@yale.edu

Yale College
Dean's Office
P.O. Box 208241
New Haven, CT
06520-8241   USA

Humanities and Arts

Study of the humanities and arts—those subjects that explore the broad range of human thought, expression, and endeavor—cultivates an educated recognition of the greatest accomplishments of the past and enriches the capacity to participate fully in the life of our time. Exploration of other civilizations, ancient and modern, gives students insight into the experiences of others and informs critical examination of their own culture. Those who create or perform works of art experience firsthand the joy and discipline of artistic expression. By rigorously and systematically examining the value and purpose of all that surrounds them, students of the humanities and arts can acquire essential preparation for many differenet kinds of careers. But independently of any specific application, study of these subjects fosters understanding of, and delight in, the reach and sweep of the human spirit.