How to Apply
the application period for 2025-26 Humanities 1 & 2 is Sunday, June 1, 2025 through Monday, June 30, 2025.
The application period will close at 11:59 pm (EST) on Monday, June 30, 2025.
You are invited to apply for Humanities 1, Global Humanities 1, and Humanities 2, Global Humanities 2. This is a selective, interdisciplinary, two-term sequence for up to 100 first-year students. The application period will be open from Sunday, June 1, 2025 through 11:59 pm (EST) on Monday, June 30, 2025.
Humanities 1 is a 2025 Fall term course and Humanities 2 will follow in the 2026 Winter term. Both of these courses are scheduled in the 12-hour, meeting Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 12:50-1:55 pm.
The application, which consists of two responses (about 200-300 words each) to prompts, is available at Humanities 1 and 2 Application.
Frequently Asked Questions
If I am waitlisted for the humanities sequence, am I still under consideration for HUM 2?
Yes! Waitlisted students will be prioritized. We'll know how many spaces we have to offer following the course election period.
If I'm scheduled to take a First Year Seminar (FYS) in the winter, should I still register for an FYS during the winter term election period?
Yes! You can switch if you're offered and you accept a spot in HUM 2. Humanities 2 fulfills the FYS requirement.
If I'm offered a spot in HUM 2, am I required to take it?
Not at all. You can pass on the opportunity and we'll offer the spot to the next person on the list.
What are the advantages of taking HUM 2 over a First Year Seminar?
It simply depends on the what interests you. Please review the course descriptions for Humanities 1 & 2 to learn about what they will offer.
Will I be disadvantaged if I haven't taken HUM 1?
In our experience, students who switch from Writing 5 to HUM 2 have no problems adjusting.
How do I apply?
The application is available here.
Whom do I contact with questions about HUM 1 & 2?
Email Prof. Rebecca E. Biron, the 2025-26 Director of Humanities 1 and 2, if you have any questions.
What are the kinds of assignments for HUM 1 & 2 and how are students assessed?
Assessment is based on student participation (including attendance), completion of approximately eight discussion posts over the course of the term, and three essays. The first two essays are about 5-6 pages each; the final essay (due during finals week) is about 8-10 pages. Students have the option to revise one of the first two essays. Writing workshops are scheduled during the term, and students are encouraged to work closely with their section professors on their essays.