Courses that enrich critical and conceptual thinking
The success of today’s most recognized artists, designers, and creative leaders hinges on the mastery of their technique, as well as their ability to think critically about a diverse range of subjects and ideas.
In fact, history’s most successful creative works address current social, political, and ideological questions. They push boundaries and ask the audience to respond. They are approachable, but they lead the viewer into the depths of today’s most complicated issues.
The trailblazers of today know what questions to ask, how to engage their audience, and who they are speaking to—all skills acquired in the comprehensive Liberal Arts program at Ringling College. Liberal Arts courses are taught by artists and designers and developed specifically to inform the artwork and aid the development of our emerging creatives.
In this program, we explore myriad cultures, taboo ideas, psychology, science fiction, classical mythology, scientific theories, and so much more. Students enter discussions and question standing norms. They emerge as artists and designers who are relevant, thoughtful, and original. We teach tomorrow’s great artists, designers, storytellers, and writers how to apply their studio skills to answer today’s most profound questions.
Choose Your Path
Liberal Arts Minors
Art History
The Art History minor is for students who wish to further their study of art history, intend to enter the fields of museum and curatorial studies, gallery management, art conservation, or other pursuits for which a minor in art history would be an advantage.
Environmental Studies
The minor in Environmental Studies equips students with an understanding of the urgency of environmental issues, from climate change to biodiversity loss, fostering a generation of leaders, innovators, and informed citizen-artists capable of contributing to sustainable solutions.
Film Studies
The Film Studies minor provides students with a broad understanding of cinema as a cultural force and storytelling medium. Courses, including those on genres, history, directors, and cultural perspectives, offer insight and perspective into visual storytelling.
Gender and Sexuality Studies
The Gender and Sexuality Studies minor provides students with the opportunity to deeply explore the study of gender and sexuality as they take shape and impact our lives in a global, diverse, and multicultural world.
Mission Statement
Our mission in Liberal Arts is to instill students with knowledge about the interconnectedness of global systems and cultures, a perspective of the planetary scale within which we reside, and a sense of curiosity about the world.
We equip students for engaged global citizenship and the creation of a more inclusive and just society through the power of art, design, and critical thinking to change the world and transform media products and brand experiences into innovative and inclusive industry practice.
Student Learning Outcomes
The liberal arts education competencies outlined below are the intended outcomes that all students should attain by the time they graduate from Ringling College. Students have multiple opportunities to develop and demonstrate these abilities as creators, communicators and collaborators.
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Written Communication
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Critical Thinking
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Scientific and Quantitative Literacy
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Integrative Learning and Problem Solving
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Cultural and Historical Global Contexts
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Critical Information Literacy
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Teamwork Skills
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Diversity and Inclusion
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Written Communication
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Critical Thinking
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Scientific and Quantitative Literacy
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Integrative Learning and Problem Solving
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Cultural and Historical Global Contexts
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Critical Information Literacy
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Teamwork Skills
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Diversity and Inclusion
Past Liberal Arts Courses
Liberal Arts
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