BA/BS in Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities

The Independent Program lets Vassar students design a field of concentration that no existing department, interdepartmental or multidisciplinary program already covers. It rests on the idea that knowledge does not come sorted into neat compartments. Past majors have ranged from forensic archaeology and mathematical modelling in ecology to peace studies and the role of technology in worldwide development. Such variety is possible because of the breadth of the college curriculum and chances to take classes elsewhere through exchange arrangements. Students usually apply to the program's faculty committee during sophomore year. Once accepted, they follow an agreed plan of study under two faculty advisors and finish with a senior thesis. The program sits within the liberal arts curriculum at Vassar College, so students are able to combine it with study in other departments and programs across the college as they plan their courses.