Go Broad, Then Go Deep

In the liberal arts tradition, students first explore the breadth of the curriculum, taking courses in areas they might never have been exposed to in high school. Then, by the end of sophomore year, they focus their studies and declare one or more majors or minors. Approximately a third of Tufts students have a double major, and nearly half declare a minor. 

Explore Freely: The Distribution Requirements

A single course can change your path, and we believe that's a good thing. There is no core curriculum within Arts and Sciences. Students are encouraged to immerse themselves in the full expanse of course offerings, deepening existing interests while discovering new areas of study. In addition to the courses required for their major, students complete distribution requirements, a foreign language/culture requirement, two freshman writing courses, and one course on a world civilization. Students choose courses that resonate with them in each area. 

Think Creatively

The foundation of a Tufts liberal arts education rests on the ability to creatively tackle problems in a number of fields. Across departments, our courses encourage students to ask questions—even, and especially, when no answers are available. Alongside their professors, students acquire knowledge actively: through projects, engaging discussions, and research. They counter problems in the world with passions developed in the classroom. 

Act Globally

Tufts students understand that they are citizens of a global community, and they embrace that responsibility. No matter their major or minor, students gain the intellectual skills needed to make decisions that have a profound effect on our world. For students who participate in Civic Semester, a global education begins before even starting their time on campus.