Humanistic Intelligence in a STEM World

Overview

The Department of Humanities and Communication equips students with the critical thinking, communication, and cultural literacy skills essential for success in high-tech industries. Grounded in the philosophy of "Humanistic Intelligence in a STEM World," the department integrates humanities-based inquiry with the demands of aviation, aerospace, and emerging technologies, ensuring that students develop the strategic, ethical, and analytical abilities to navigate and lead in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Through its general education curriculum, the department challenges students to see beyond technical problem-solving, fostering a deeper understanding of how science, business, and policy are shaped by cultural forces (and vice versa). The department’s STEM-designated B.S. in Communication offers a unique pathway for students interested in high-impact careers in aviation, technology, and crisis communication, while its minor in Humanistic STEM and its minor in Communication provide interdisciplinary learning experiences that connect technical expertise with human-centered insight.

With a growing emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI) and digital humanities, the department also leads the way in preparing students to engage with AI as both a tool and a subject of ethical inquiry. Faculty experts in composition, literature, history, communication, and ethics offer courses that push students to think critically, communicate effectively, and understand the broader implications of technology, culture, and policy.

By bridging the gap between STEM and society, the Department of Humanities and Communication ensures that students are not just technical experts—but leaders, innovators, and ethical decision-makers in an increasingly complex world.

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Submissions from 2019

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What Is Humanistic STEM and Why Do We Need It?, Debra T. Bourdeau and Beverly L. Wood

Submissions from 2018

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Virtual Community of Practice: Connecting Online Adjunct Faculty, Cristina Cottom, Angela Atwell, Lisa Martino, and Sara Ombres