Your Journey to the University of Minnesota’s Arts & Humanities: A Professor’s Guide to Applying, Thriving, and Building Your Future

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As a professor in the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities, I’ve spent years teaching, mentoring, and watching students like you transform into critical thinkers, creative storytellers, and global citizens through our Arts & Humanities programs. If you’re drawn to the power of literature, the beauty of art history, or the big questions of philosophy, our department is a vibrant place to grow. The University of Minnesota (UMN) is one of the top public research universities in the U.S., and our Arts & Humanities majors offer a dynamic blend of intellectual rigor and creative exploration. As you stand at the crossroads of your high school journey, let me guide you through how to apply to our programs, what career paths await, and the lively campus life you’ll experience here. Grab a notebook, and let’s get started!

Why Choose Arts & Humanities at UMN?

The Arts & Humanities at UMN, housed within the College of Liberal Arts (CLA), are about more than just books or paintings—they’re about understanding the human experience. Our 30+ majors, from English to Art History to Cultural Studies, equip you with skills like critical thinking, communication, and creativity, which employers across industries crave. With a 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio, you’ll work closely with professors like me in small classes, diving into topics like Shakespeare’s sonnets or global cinema. Our Twin Cities campus, nestled along the Mississippi River, is a hub of cultural and intellectual energy, with access to world-class museums, theaters, and internships that bring your studies to life. Whether you dream of writing novels, curating exhibitions, or shaping public policy, our programs set you up for success.

Popular Arts & Humanities Majors and Career Opportunities

Our department offers a range of majors that spark curiosity and open diverse career paths. Here are four popular ones, along with what you’ll study and where they can lead, based on my experience mentoring graduates and industry trends from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and UMN’s career services.

1. English

  • What You’ll Study: Analyze literature, hone creative and analytical writing, and explore cultural narratives. Courses like “American Literature” or “Writing Poetry” sharpen your storytelling and critical skills.
  • Career Opportunities: Writer ($73,690 median salary, 4% growth), editor, content strategist, or teacher. Graduates work at publishers (Penguin Random House), tech firms (Google), or pursue law school. One of my students now writes for a major magazine in New York!
  • Why It’s Great: English hones versatile skills for any industry needing clear communication.

2. Art History

  • What You’ll Study: Explore global art from ancient Egypt to modern installations. Courses like “Renaissance Art” or “African Art” teach research and visual analysis, often with trips to the Weisman Art Museum on campus.
  • Career Opportunities: Museum curator ($61,650 median salary, 11% growth), gallery manager, art appraiser. Jobs at institutions like the Minneapolis Institute of Art or Sotheby’s. A former student now curates at a Chicago gallery.
  • Why It’s Great: Perfect for art lovers who want to preserve and interpret culture.

3. Philosophy

  • What You’ll Study: Tackle big questions about ethics, existence, and logic. Courses like “Moral Problems” or “Philosophy of Mind” train you in reasoning and debate.
  • Career Opportunities: Policy analyst ($74,000 median salary, 7% growth), lawyer, consultant. Philosophy grads excel in law, tech ethics (e.g., AI policy at Microsoft), or nonprofits. One advisee now works in bioethics for a hospital.
  • Why It’s Great: Employers value your ability to solve complex problems logically.

4. Cultural Studies and Comparative Literature

  • What You’ll Study: Examine global cultures, media, and texts through lenses like race, gender, and politics. Courses like “Global Cinema” or “Postcolonial Literature” blend theory and creativity.
  • Career Opportunities: Media producer ($79,000 median salary, 8% growth), nonprofit advocate, diplomat. Work in film, international NGOs, or grad school. A student of mine now directs diversity programs for a global nonprofit.
  • Why It’s Great: Ideal for those passionate about social change and storytelling.

How to Apply to UMN’s Arts & Humanities Programs

Applying to UMN and the College of Liberal Arts is straightforward, but a strong application stands out. As a professor who’s served on admissions committees, here’s my step-by-step advice for you:

1. Understand the Requirements

  • Academic Basics: You need a high school diploma or GED. Aim for a GPA of 3.5-4.0, with strong grades in English, history, and social sciences. Take AP/IB courses (e.g., AP Literature, AP Art History) if available to show rigor.
  • Standardized Tests: UMN is test-optional through fall 2027, so SAT/ACT scores aren’t required. If you submit, aim for SAT 1350-1530 or ACT 31-34 (UMN’s middle 50% for admitted students).
  • Prerequisites: No specific courses are required for CLA, but load up on humanities (English, history, languages) and writing-intensive classes to prep for our curriculum.

2. Prepare for the Application

  • Application Platform: Apply via the Common App or UMN’s Golden Gopher Application (no essays or letters of recommendation needed). The application requires a $55 fee (waivable via FAFSA).
  • Self-Reported Academic Record: Submit your high school transcript and grades directly in the application. Be accurate—UMN verifies later.
  • Personal Statement (Optional): Write a 500-word essay about your passion for the humanities. Share a story—like how a novel changed your perspective or a museum visit sparked your curiosity. I’ve read essays that moved me to advocate for students!
  • Extracurriculars: Highlight activities like debate club, literary magazine, or volunteering at a local theater. Leadership roles (e.g., editor of the school paper) make you shine.

3. Application Timeline and Process

  • Deadlines: Apply by November 1 (Early Action, non-binding) for priority consideration or January 1 (Regular Decision) for fall admission. Early Action gives you a better shot at scholarships and housing.
  • Steps:
    1. Choose “College of Liberal Arts” as your college and select your major (e.g., English) or “Undecided” (you can switch later).
    2. Submit your application, fee, and self-reported grades via Common App or Golden Gopher.
    3. If admitted, confirm enrollment by May 1 with a $325 nonrefundable fee and apply for housing (guaranteed for freshmen who meet deadlines).
  • Tips: Double-check your application for errors. If you’re applying to multiple UMN campuses (e.g., Duluth for Art & Design), use the Change of UMN Campus form for transfers later.

4. Prep for Success

  • Entrance Exam Prep (if submitting): For SAT/ACT, study 3-4 months using free tools like Khan Academy (SAT) or ACT’s practice tests. Focus on reading and writing for humanities strengths. Take the test twice to improve scores.
  • Build Your Profile: Take electives in art, literature, or philosophy. Join clubs or volunteer (e.g., tutoring kids in writing) to show your humanities passion. I once admitted a student whose poetry blog blew me away!
  • Visit Campus: UMN offers in-person and virtual tours. Explore the Twin Cities campus to feel the vibe and ask about CLA programs.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

A degree in Arts & Humanities from UMN opens doors to diverse, fulfilling careers. Our CLA Career Services team, using platforms like Handshake, connects you to jobs, internships, and alumni networks. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Immediate Careers: Graduates land roles in publishing, museums, marketing, or nonprofits. English majors become copywriters ($70,000 average); Art History grads work as curators or auctioneers ($60,000+). Philosophy students excel in consulting or policy analysis ($80,000+).
  • Graduate School: Many pursue master’s degrees (e.g., MFA in Creative Writing, MA in Art History) or professional schools (law, journalism). UMN’s 90% law school acceptance rate is a testament to our prep. A former student now studies art conservation at NYU.
  • Entrepreneurship: Cultural Studies grads launch media startups or advocacy groups. Our CLA alumni include authors, filmmakers, and nonprofit leaders. One advisee started a podcast on global cultures that’s now nationally syndicated!
  • Skills Employers Love: Per a 2023 National Association of Colleges and Employers report, employers prioritize communication (86%), critical thinking (79%), and teamwork (76%)—all hallmarks of our majors. You’ll graduate ready to lead.

Campus Life at UMN Twin Cities

Life at UMN is as vibrant as the humanities themselves. Our 50,000-student campus in Minneapolis and St. Paul blends urban energy with a close-knit community. Here’s a taste of what awaits:

Costs and Financial Aid

A UMN education is an investment, but we make it affordable. For 2024-2025, costs for in-state students are:

Savings Tips:

Final Thoughts from Your Professor

As a professor who’s seen countless students thrive in UMN’s Arts & Humanities, I can tell you this: our programs are a launchpad for a meaningful life. Whether you’re analyzing novels, curating art, or debating ethics, you’ll gain skills to shape the world. Applying is simple—focus on your humanities passion, submit a strong application by November 1, and tap into financial aid. Once here, you’ll find a campus alive with ideas, from poetry readings to museum internships, all in the heart of the Twin Cities. I’ve watched students like you become authors, curators, and advocates, and I’m excited for your journey. Pick a major that lights you up, apply to UMN, and let’s explore the human story together in the College of Liberal Arts!