Animal Studies is an emerging and socially engaged field that explores the ethical, religious, philosophical, political, and sociocultural aspects of animal-human relationships. Learn about animal representations in art and literature, companion animals in diverse cultures, efforts to strengthen animal protection laws and much more. Thanks to the program's multidisciplinary approach, you can take courses in the arts, humanities, law, social sciences and sciences in order to tailor your degree to your passions.
Animal Studies is concerned with the full range of historical and contemporary dimensions of humans' relations with other living beings, including the great diversity in humans' cultural attitudes toward the non-human world, the roles and representations of animals in human societies, and our moral responsibilities toward non-human animals. Our academic interest in Animal Studies mirrors a growing sensitivity to the plight of animals found within the broader society.
The Minor in Animal Studies proposes to engage students with ethical questions about the human co-existence with other species. It shares many of the theoretical perspectives, social and animal justice goals, and pedagogical tools of other advocacy-oriented disciplines, and is perfect for students interested in social justice, law, education, and the humanities. Animal advocacy opportunities are also available.
