Westmont College Majors: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Westmont College, a renowned liberal arts institution located in Santa Barbara, California, offers a wide array of majors that cater to the diverse interests and aspirations of its students. Each major provides a solid foundation in its field and prepares graduates for success in their chosen careers. This guide will delve into the various majors offered at Westmont College, exploring their strengths, career paths, and potential applications.

Humanities and Fine Arts

English

• BA in English
• BA in English Writing
• Minor in English

Westmont’s English Department is renowned for its emphasis on critical thinking, effective writing, and literary analysis. The department offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes courses in literature, writing, linguistics, and literary theory. Graduates pursue careers in writing, editing, publishing, journalism, teaching, and other fields that require strong communication skills.

History

• BA in History
• Minor in History

The History Department at Westmont provides a comprehensive understanding of the past and its relevance to the present. Students study a diverse range of historical periods and regions, developing critical thinking, analytical, and research skills. Graduates pursue careers in law, education, journalism, historical preservation, and various other fields that require a strong understanding of history.

Philosophy

• BA in Philosophy
• Minor in Philosophy

Westmont’s Philosophy Department encourages students to explore fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and the human condition. The department offers a rigorous curriculum that includes courses in logic, metaphysics, ethics, and political philosophy. Graduates pursue careers in law, academia, counseling, and various other fields that require strong reasoning and critical thinking skills.

Music

• BA in Music
• BA in Music with Emphasis in Music Education
• Minor in Music

The Music Department at Westmont provides a well-rounded education in music theory, history, performance, and composition. Students develop their musical skills through individual lessons, ensembles, and performance opportunities. Graduates pursue careers in music education, performance, composition, music therapy, and other related fields.

Art

• BA in Art
• Minor in Art

Westmont’s Art Department offers a dynamic curriculum that emphasizes studio work, art history, and critical analysis. Students develop their technical skills and creative expression through courses in drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture, and digital art. Graduates pursue careers in art education, studio art, art therapy, and various other fields that require artistic creativity.

Social Sciences

Psychology

• BA in Psychology
• Minor in Psychology

Westmont’s Psychology Department provides a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and mental processes. Students study a wide range of topics, including personality, development, cognition, social psychology, and abnormal psychology. Graduates pursue careers in counseling, social work, research, human resources, and various other fields that require an understanding of human behavior.

Sociology

• BA in Sociology
• Minor in Sociology

The Sociology Department at Westmont examines the social structures and interactions that shape human behavior. Students study topics such as social stratification, race and ethnicity, gender, and deviance. Graduates pursue careers in social work, research, social policy analysis, and various other fields that require an understanding of social issues.

Political Science

• BA in Political Science
• Minor in Political Science

Westmont’s Political Science Department provides a rigorous understanding of political systems and processes. Students study topics such as American government, international relations, comparative politics, and public policy. Graduates pursue careers in law, government, public policy research, and various other fields that require an understanding of politics.

Economics

• BA in Economics
• Minor in Economics

The Economics Department at Westmont provides a comprehensive understanding of economic principles and their application to real-world issues. Students study topics such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, international trade, and public finance. Graduates pursue careers in business, finance, banking, consulting, and various other fields that require an understanding of economic principles.

Natural Sciences and Mathematics

Biology

• BA in Biology
• BA in Biology with Emphasis in Marine Biology
• Minor in Biology

Westmont’s Biology Department provides a strong foundation in the principles of life sciences. Students study topics such as cell biology, genetics, ecology, and evolution. Graduates pursue careers in medicine, research, environmental conservation, and various other fields that require a strong understanding of biology.

Chemistry

• BA in Chemistry
• Minor in Chemistry

The Chemistry Department at Westmont provides a rigorous understanding of the principles and applications of chemistry. Students study topics such as organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry, and biochemistry. Graduates pursue careers in medicine, research, environmental science, teaching, and various other fields that require a strong understanding of chemistry.

Environmental Science

• BA in Environmental Science
• Minor in Environmental Science

Westmont’s Environmental Science Department examines the interactions between humans and the natural world. Students study topics such as ecology, sustainability, resource management, and pollution control. Graduates pursue careers in environmental consulting, conservation, natural resource management, and various other fields that require an understanding of environmental issues.

Mathematics

• BA in Mathematics
• Minor in Mathematics

The Mathematics Department at Westmont provides a solid foundation in mathematical principles and their applications. Students study topics such as calculus, algebra, statistics, and discrete mathematics. Graduates pursue careers in teaching, research, data analysis, software engineering, and various other fields that require strong mathematical skills.

Table 1: Major Requirements

Table 2: Career Paths

Table 3: Potential Applications

Table 4: Student Testimonials