The School of the Humanities

Anthropology/Archaeology students explore the four major subfields of Anthropology: Archaeology, Sociocultural Anthropology, Biological Anthropology, and Linguistic Anthropology. Our emphasis on highly individualized mentoring, hands-on instruction, intercultural research, and communication skills affords excellent career versatility and leads to work and educational opportunities in a wide variety of corporate, government, non-profit, museum, educational, and other settings. Our program's career-oriented approach and flexible curriculum offer students abundant opportunities to match their coursework and experiences to their desired post-graduate outcomes.

Mercyhurst's English major is designed to immerse students in the constantly evolving discipline of literature and expression. From analyzing classic British literature to writing a thesis on applied linguistics, the English Department offers a focus of study for any student who loves to read and write. We emphasize the importance of thorough literary research, as well as individual thought and practice in theory development. English majors at Mercyhurst graduate with the writing, analysis and presentation skills needed for graduate programs at high-caliber universities, or to secure employment with this flexible and marketable degree.

Mercyhurst’s Thomas B. Hagen Department of History prepares students for a successful and rewarding future with studies in traditional history, public history and museum studies, or preparing to teach history at the secondary level. A wide-ranging curriculum, coupled with an outstanding faculty, equips students with skills sought by employers in virtually any field: to research, analyze, and evaluate information; and to produce sound, convincing arguments orally and in writing. Our graduates pursue a wide range of career paths including teaching, research, journalism, law, public service, museums, and historic sites. 

Through diverse course offerings, the Department of Religious Studies cultivates understanding of the religious experience of human kind. We provide students with a breadth of knowledge in the field and essential skills for full participation in a globalized world. Students will cultivate reflective and critical thinking skills through the study of religion's broad impact on human life and society.

Mercyhurst’s Russian Studies major encourages the development of strong critical thinking and communication skills through immersion in Russian language and grammar, literature, culture, and history. The working relationships Mercyhurst has developed with several study abroad programs also offer students the opportunity to earn credits abroad in a variety of formats, so we encourage all of our Russian studies majors to spend some time abroad. 

Majoring in Spanish allows students to be immersed in Hispanic language, literature and culture while developing strong analytical thinking and communication skills. The Spanish Education major offers the opportunity to combine these skills with the coursework and practicum experiences necessary to earn a teaching certificate in Pennsylvania. In both majors, you’ll find countless opportunities to sharpen your language skills and challenge your cultural assumptions while experiencing the world from a different vantage point.

By taking a variety of courses through the Liberal Studies Associate of Science program, you’ll learn to think critically, communicate effectively, and problem solve efficiently, all while discovering your true calling. Plus, with concentrations in communications, new media, and science, you can get a jumpstart on a career in advertising, marketing, public relations or other fields. 

The post-baccalaureate certificate in Global Awareness promotes a holistic education on the human experience through classes in anthropology, history, sociology, religion, and psychology. Students are encouraged to step outside of their comfort zones to gain a deeper understanding of our world. 

Earn an advanced certificate in World Language Education (K-12). The program is intended for students who have already completed a bachelor's degree in French or Spanish (exceptions may be made for native speakers of French or Spanish) seeking a world languages (K-12) teacher certification in the State of Pennsylvania. Each certification requires a course sequence of study and clinical practicum experiences.