Explore how people, ideas, beliefs, and institutions have shaped societies across time and around the world. Whether you’re interested in the past, today’s challenges, or the ideas that influence how we live, these programs will help you better understand people and the world around you.
Explore culture and society at Iowa
Ancient Civilization
Explore the cultures of the ancient Mediterranean and Near East through history, religion, philosophy, literature, art, and archaeology, while discovering how the ancient world continues to influence life today.
History
Investigate people, places, and events across different periods and regions of the world while developing the research, critical thinking, and communication skills to understand the connections between past and present.
International Studies
Examine global issues from multiple perspectives, explore the cultures, politics, and economies of different regions, and develop the cross-cultural skills to navigate an increasingly interconnected world.
Linguistics
Analyze the structure of language, from sentence patterns and meaning to sound systems, and tailor your studies to interests in anthropology, computer science, speech pathology, or teaching English as a second language.
Philosophy
Explore fundamental questions about knowledge, ethics, society, and the human experience while strengthening your ability to think critically, construct arguments, and communicate complex ideas.
Religious Studies
Study religious traditions, ideas, and practices from around the world and learn how religion shapes cultures, communities, values, and human experiences across history and in contemporary life.
Sport, Media, and Culture
Examine the relationships among sport, media, and society and explore how culture, economics, politics, race, class, and gender influence the way sports are experienced and understood.
Translation
Develop proficiency in a second language and master the art of translating between languages in literary, legal, medical, or technical fields, while gaining hands-on experience through an internship or study abroad.
Add a minor or certificate to any program of study
Why study culture and society at Iowa?
Understanding people and societies means looking at the world from many perspectives. At Iowa, you can explore the forces that have shaped human experience—from ancient civilizations and religious traditions to global affairs, philosophical ideas, and the cultural influence of sports and media.
Along the way, you’ll develop valuable skills in critical thinking, research, communication, cultural awareness, and problem-solving that can prepare you for careers and advanced study in a wide variety of fields.
Careers our graduates pursue
- Attorney
- Educator
- Historian
- Museum professional
- Archivist
- Librarian
- Journalist
- Writer or editor
- Government or public service official
- Foreign service officer
- International development professional
- Policy analyst
- Researcher
- Sports media professional
- ... and many similar professions
