// EXPLORATORY CURRICULUM //

USF Arts and Humanities Pathway

An arts and humanities degree is an ideal choice if you’re naturally creative and socially engaged, but if you’re having difficulty deciding on a major in this area, the University of South Florida has an option you need to consider.

Not quite ready to commit to an arts and humanities major?

If you’re interested in learning more about art, English, foreign language, history or music, then majoring in these areas might be ideal for you. If you’re still on the fence about your decision, consider taking an exploratory pathway at USF.

Exploratory Curriculum allows you to explore your options before you commit to a major. While this program isn’t a degree with which you can graduate, you can take up to 36 credit hours of courses in different disciplines, helping you discover your ideal arts and humanities major in areas like:

A group of people looking at art on the wall.
  • Architecture
  • Communication
  • Dance
  • Music
  • Theater
  • World languages

If you can’t decide between a communications career or an art history degree — or you’re weighing other options — the exploratory pathway in arts and humanities may be the best way to gain valuable insight and finalize your choice. Note as you plan that your 36 credit hours ALSO include any credits you earned through AP, IB, AICE, dual enrollment, etc.

What will you study in your Exploratory Pathway at USF?

You’ll take U-Decide in your first semester, a cornerstone course that emphasizes critical thinking—a valuable skill for any major or career. In this class, you’ll connect with other students who share your interest in arts and humanities. You’ll also meet with USF professors and get personalized support from academic advisors.

How Will U-Decide Help You?

U-Decide as part of your exploratory curriculum experience will equip you with essential decision-making skills to help you thrive in college and beyond.

Follow a recommended plan of study as you explore your options, and if the arts and humanities pathway isn’t right for you, you can switch to another. You have the flexibility to take up to 36 credit hours before declaring a major.

Arts and humanities degree pathway courses include:

  • Composition
  • History of Visual Arts
  • Introduction to Literature
  • Introduction to Sociology
  • Media and Society

Three courses are offered as electives:

  • Descriptive Astronomy
  • Finite Mathematics
  • Mathematics for Liberal Arts

You can also work with an advisor to participate in undergraduate research. We’ll help you find your best path—students who complete this pathway often choose majors or minors like:

  • American Studies Minor
  • BA in Art History
  • Art Studio Minor
  • Classics Minor
  • BA in Communication
  • BA in Dance
  • BA in English
  • BA in History
  • BA in Humanities and Cultural Studies
  • BA in Mass Communications
  • BS in Music Education
  • BA in Philosophy
  • BA in Religious Studies
  • BA in Theatre
  • BA in World Languages and Cultures

Why choose USF for your Exploratory Curriculum?

Pursue your dreams at our Tampa, St. Petersburg, or Sarasota-Manatee campuses. Our Tampa Bay area locations offer vast support for students interested in the arts and humanities. From local community theater to our College of the Arts events to USF’s student-led newspaper, you’ll have ample opportunity to follow your interests.

Two USF students walking together on campus during an event.

We also have 700+ student clubs and organizations, so there’s a good chance you’ll find a group of people who share your interests and can help support you through your Exploratory Curriculum.

Enjoy the vibrant communities within our region in your free time, or visit our award-winning beaches. The Tampa Bay area is also home to many prominent businesses, which means ample networking opportunities for you as you continue your academic journey.

Ready to start pursuing your passion?

There’s no time like the present—if you’re ready to see if our Exploratory Pathway is right for you, then we’re ready to help you. Download our brochure to learn more and then contact us with any questions.

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