Major/Minor
History
History majors and minors learn how to ask good questions, use evidence to evaluate change and continuity, analyze cause and effect, put information in context, condense data into logic, and apply relevant information to understand the past and present. You will be a strong writer, researcher, and interpreter of information.
Major/Minor
Film and Media Arts
This major offers space to study, practice, and experiment with film and media within a broad interdisciplinary context that includes production, critical theory, and performance. You'll hone your command of form, content and craft, and develop creativity and visual literacy. And you'll gain understanding of media production and processes within a global environment.
Major/Minor
Geography
Geography majors/minors draw on natural and social sciences to understand Earth’s environments and how humans respond to and transform them. You'll touch on sustainable land use, migration, globalization, climate change, urbanization, and environmental justice. You can also choose Geographic Information Systems (GIS) as an emphasis, gaining map-making skills.
Major/Minor
Music
Perform, compose, teach. Majors/minors gain the tools and support to cultivate talent. You will explore musical genres and traditions, study theoretical concepts and historical perspectives, and perform in collaborative, inspiring, and nurturing spaces. You may pursue a career in the music industry such as music education or performance, or apply your learning to another career path.
Major/Minor
Philosophy
Philosophy majors/minors will learn how to approach problems, view arguments from multiple perspectives, communicate clearly with others, and articulate thoughts in a meaningful way. You gain a comprehensive understanding of the major philosophical traditions, ideas, and arguments, along with the skills for critically analyzing them. Sample courses and career paths here.
Major/Minor
Pre-Pharmacy
Pre-pharmacy students major in Chemistry, Biology, or Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. You'll receive a strong science foundation for graduate school, plus the freedom to explore through elective courses. It's academic rigor, a supportive community, and the advantages of an immersive on-campus experience. Plus, the Office of Health Professions provides comprehensive support, from navigating prerequisites to pharmacy school applications.
Major/Minor
Pre-Seminary
Gustavus has a long history of preparing pastors, chaplains, and other Christian clergy and church leaders. You'll major in Religion, Psychology, English, and/or Philosophy on your way to seminary school and/or graduate theology education. Gustavus's chaplains and academic advisors will assist you in choosing coursework, plugging into student groups, and serving in campus leadership positions.
Major/Minor
Religion
Religion majors/minors explore life's biggest questions through classroom experiences that foster dialogue between faiths with compassion and respect. You will study theology, major religions, and their relationship with ethics, politics, art, music, literature, and more. Sample courses and career pathways—including pastors and other clergy—here.
Major/Minor
Russian
As a minor in Russian Language, Literature, and Culture you will explore the language, rich cultural heritage, literature, and history of Russophone lands through the Modern Languages, Literatures, and Cultures Department (MLLC). Given Russia's strategic geopolitical importance, understanding the language and culture provides valuable insights.
Major/Minor
Scandinavian Studies
Scandinavian Studies majors/minors journey to the Arctic Circle (particularly in Sweden), connect over "fika" (coffee and treats) at the Swedish House, and get to know award-winning artists and scholars from Scandinavia. You'll study Scandinavian histories, arts, literatures, philosophies, religions, music, and languages. Check out sample courses and career paths here.
Major/Minor
Spanish
Spanish majors/minors can connect with 500 million other Spanish speakers. Faculty in the Modern Languages, Literatures, and Cultures Department (MLLC) who are focused on Spanish emphasize current events, putting the Spanish language into context. Sample courses and careers here.
Major/Minor
Pre-Dentistry
Students interested in dentistry and oral health major in Biology, Chemistry, and/or Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. You'll gain an excellent scientific foundation with the flexibility to delve into diverse electives. Here, your career as a dentist, orthodontist, and oral surgeon begins with strong academics and a vibrant on-campus community. And the Office of Health Professions provides helps you navigate prerequisite courses and dental school applications.