Department of Liberal Arts

There are 3 key ideas which structure the curriculum.
1. Self exploration
Great emphasis placed on the process of self exploration. It is natural that when students first arrive they should have little idea of who they are and what they would like to do in the future. However after students have spent 4 years experiencing the program's cross-disciplinary approach which transcends narrow academic specialties and moves freely through the study of literature, society, and nature, they will be able to have found out who they really are and what they should do in their future. Students will find more motivation to study if they have discovered areas of interest themselves rather than being confined to traditional specialties. This process will not only enable them to use their creative potential but will also result in their developing an area of interest in a more comprehensive way. Indeed through learning how to create a network linking the different viewpoints and interests of people they produce knowledge which is both dynamic and relevant.
2. Fieldwork
In this department, great importance is placed on doing fieldwork. Under the guidance of their teachers, students plan and implement their own programs of research, either working individually or in groups. Possible areas of such research could include historical matters, how to create attractive urban environments, or the psychology of contemporary young people. Students will be responsible for making a research proposal, carrying it out, and presenting the results. This process will help students develop their communication skills and initiative.
3. Student-centered interactive classes
Full advantage is taken of the small size of the department (a maximum of 20 students each year) to enable students to learn through a curriculum which can be sensitive to each student's individual needs and interests. Students begin with the foundation course, 'An Introduction to Liberal Arts' to orient them to university life. They will also attend seminars to read and discuss matters such as the pleasures of reading. Most classes are designed so teachers and students can learn through a sustained and mutual dialogue with the aim of developing their communication skills. Indeed this discussion among students and between teachers and students on matters of interest to them will enable them to naturally acquire communication skills and improve their ability to think deeply.