M.S. in Computer Information Systems
The M.S. in Computer Information Systems at NEC is a 36-credit program that can typical...
B.A. in Integrated Studies in Philosophy and Literature
Henniker, New Hampshire
INTAKE: Jan, Aug & Oct
Program Overview
The B.A. in Integrated Studies in Philosophy and Literature at New England College is a four-year, 120-credit program designed for students who seek a comprehensive and integrated understanding of humanity's intellectual and creative heritage. This unique major emphasizes the interplay between philosophical inquiry and literary expression, allowing students to explore complex themes and arguments that transcend disciplinary boundaries. The curriculum cultivates "deep reading" as an experiential and engaged activity, recognizing its value in a technology-saturated world. Graduates develop sound reasoning, creative questioning, and clarity of expression, skills highly valued across diverse professions. The program aims to provide a foundation for "every profession and a commitment to a life of human excellence."
Curriculum: The 120-credit B.A. in Integrated Studies in Philosophy and Literature curriculum at NEC is structured around a strong core of interdisciplinary courses, complemented by focused studies in cultural history and interpreting experience, along with a liberal arts and sciences core. Required courses include "Making Sense of the World: An Introduction to Great Works in Philosophy and Literature" and "Imagining the World: The Poetic Mind in the Digital Age." Students are required to take three courses (12 credits) focusing on the literature and/or philosophy of specific historical periods (Ancient, Renaissance, Modern), providing a foundation in the evolution of thought across cultures. An "Interpreting Experience" section comprises four courses (16 credits), allowing students to explore the multifaceted nature of human experience through lenses of arts, morality, nature, culture, society, reason, or science, drawing from both philosophy and literature. The program also includes NEC's broader Liberal Arts & Sciences Core Curriculum.
Research Focus: The B.A. in Integrated Studies in Philosophy and Literature at New England College cultivates a research focus rooted in critical analysis and interpretive inquiry, rather than traditional empirical research. The program emphasizes "engaging with a literary or philosophical text and apply[ing] it to real-world challenges," which can be seen as a form of applied textual research. Students are encouraged to "refine their own thinking in light of the record of human intellectual and creative expression," demonstrating a deep engagement with existing scholarship and primary texts. Learning outcomes include the ability to "understand the historical and cultural role of philosophy and literature in shaping and challenging a culture's worldview," which inherently involves research into historical contexts and intellectual movements. Faculty members are experienced scholars and practitioners who guide students in reflective writing assignments and discussions, fostering critical engagement with ideas and texts.
Industry Engagement: The B.A. in Integrated Studies in Philosophy and Literature at New England College prepares students for diverse industries by developing highly transferable and sought-after skills. While direct "industry engagement" in terms of specific external partnerships might not be as explicit as in vocational programs, the program's focus on "critical thinking, strong writing abilities, and effective communication" directly aligns with the demands of numerous professional fields. Graduates are recognized for their "ethical and reflective thought," "deep reading," and ability to "articulate their perspectives effectively," all of which are crucial in roles requiring nuanced understanding, persuasive communication, and complex problem-solving. The curriculum inherently prepares students for careers in fields like publishing, education, journalism, policy analysis, and law, where the ability to interpret, analyze, and communicate complex ideas is paramount.
Global Perspective: The B.A. in Integrated Studies in Philosophy and Literature at New England College inherently incorporates a strong global perspective through its engagement with diverse cultural and historical contexts. The curriculum explicitly includes a "Cultural History" component where students choose courses focusing on the literature and/or philosophy of specific historical periods (Ancient, Renaissance, Modern), allowing them to gain a deeper understanding of the evolution of human thought across different cultures and eras. The program's core aim to help students "make sense of the world" and explore "the human quest for meaning and purpose" naturally leads to an examination of varied cultural expressions of these universal themes. The Liberal Arts & Sciences Core Curriculum at NEC also typically includes a "Global Perspectives" requirement, further broadening students' understanding of international issues and diverse global viewpoints.
Location
Henniker, New Hampshire
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 40178
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 65 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
New England College (NEC) is supporting talented international students by offering a range of merit-based scholarships designed to make quality education more accessible and affordable. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership, and other achievements, helping to reduce the financial burden of studying in the United States.
Merit-Based Scholarships: All international applicants to NEC are automatically considered for merit scholarships during the admission process. Awards vary based on the student’s academic record, test scores, extracurricular involvement, and leadership qualities.
Presidential Scholarship: One of the most prestigious awards, the Presidential Scholarship, is granted to exceptional international students with outstanding academic credentials.
Athletic Scholarships: NEC offers athletic scholarships to international students who demonstrate exceptional skill and commitment in NCAA Division III sports. These scholarships are awarded based on athletic performance, team needs, and coach recommendations, providing support while balancing academics and athletics.
Specialized Program Scholarships: Certain academic departments at NEC may offer scholarships targeting high-achieving students pursuing degrees in fields such as Business, Cybersecurity, Education, Creative Writing, and Health Sciences. These targeted awards help attract top talent and support focused areas of study.
Graduates of New England College's B.A. in Integrated Studies in Philosophy and Literature are equipped with a powerful and adaptable skill set highly valued in today's complex job market.
Journalist/Writer: Researches, analyzes, and reports on complex topics, crafting compelling narratives and arguments for news outlets, magazines, or online publications, leveraging strong writing and critical thinking skills.
Editor/Publisher: Works with authors to refine manuscripts, ensures clarity and coherence, and manages the production of books, articles, or digital content for publishing houses or media companies.
Policy Analyst: Researches, evaluates, and interprets data and philosophical frameworks to develop recommendations for public policies, often for government agencies, think tanks, or non-profit organizations.
Lawyer (with further education): A B.A. in Philosophy and Literature provides an excellent foundation for law school (Juris Doctor - J.D.), developing the critical thinking, logical reasoning, and argumentative skills essential for legal practice.
Communications Specialist/Public Relations: Develops and executes communication strategies for organizations, crafting messages, managing media relations, and ensuring clear and ethical public discourse.
Human Resources Professional: Applies understanding of human behavior, ethics, and communication to manage employee relations, training, and organizational culture within a company.
Archivist/Librarian (with further education/certification): Organizes, preserves, and provides access to cultural and historical records, including literary and philosophical texts, often requiring a Master's degree in Library Science or Archival Studies.
Ethics and Compliance Officer: Ensures an organization's adherence to ethical standards and legal regulations, developing policies and providing training based on a strong understanding of moral philosophy.
Educator (K-12 or Higher Education): Teaches English, Philosophy, or related humanities subjects in schools or colleges, inspiring critical thought and a love for learning (often requires additional certification or graduate degrees for K-12, and a Master's or Ph.D. for higher education).
Non-profit Program Manager: Designs, implements, and oversees programs for non-profit organizations focused on social justice, cultural preservation, education, or advocacy, leveraging strong analytical and communication skills for mission-driven work.
