Undergraduate Programs

The minor in Actuarial Science is perfect for students majoring in mathematics, economics, finance, or accounting, or for any student with a strong mathematics background who wants to learn how to model the uncertainty of events and to assess and manage risk

Offered as both a major and minor, Fairfield’s American Studies program engages the idea of America as it has been culturally imagined and contested throughout history, both within and beyond U.S. national borders. The program draws from a wide range of courses in the arts, humanities, and social sciences to provide a thorough understanding of American culture, traditions, relationships, and institutions.

Fairfield’s interdisciplinary Ancient Mediterranean Studies program employs some of the most sophisticated technologies available to advance our understanding of Ancient Mediterranean peoples.

The new minor in Applied Statistics is perfect for students majoring in business, economics, engineering, the natural sciences, nursing, health studies, public health, psychology, sociology, journalism, or politics, or for any student who wants to understand and interpret data. Students completing the Applied Statistics minor will gain hands-on experience analyzing and interpreting real world data - skills which they can then bring to their chosen careers.

The art history program at Fairfield University offers a complete curriculum covering the major movements and developments in art and history throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Upon graduation, the skills you will acquire often lead to successful careers in education, museums and galleries, marketing, advertising, law, and media.

Whether you see yourself as an entrepreneur or a philosopher, involved in government or the arts, a working knowledge of Asian realities is essential in today's world. Whatever major you choose, the Asian Studies minor allows you to tailor your course selection to explore Asian perspectives on the central questions of your field.

Behavioral neuroscience is the study of biological mechanisms underlying human and animal behavior. The field sits at the intersection of psychology and biology and addresses topics from the cellular/molecular level to the biological underpinnings of all aspects of behavior and psychological disorders.

The biology program provides students with a deep appreciation and understanding of the diversity of living things, their adaptations to the environment, and their evolutionary and ecological relationships. These fundamental understandings will give you the tools to grasp the challenges which arise in graduate medical, dental, or allied health schools, and in careers in the life and medical sciences.

Fairfield’s Black Studies program employs the methodology of various humanities and social science disciplines to offer a comprehensive study of the origins and experiences of people from African descent. By engaging in a comparative and theoretical examination of Africa and the African Diaspora, students are equipped to undertake an interdisciplinary scholarly analysis of the far-reaching impacts of race and ethnicity across continents.

A minor in campaigns and elections offers students an opportunity to explore critical issues in the theory and practice of political campaigns and elections in the United States.

Catholic Studies is an interdisciplinary inquiry into the intellectual tradition, history and culture, both "high" and popular, of the Catholic Christian tradition. While the field of study includes religious questions and theological issues, it primarily follows a "cultural studies" model.

Fairfield's chemistry and biochemistry curriculum gives students a comprehensive education in the field's principles and applications. Our programs thoroughly prepare you for careers in chemical, biochemical and pharmaceutical industries, along with advanced studies in these areas of science. Our degree programs also prepare students well for a career in the health professions including medical, dental, or pharmacy school.

Fairfield’s Communication program focuses on the description and analysis of how humans acquire, process, and use information. Course work emphasizes theory, research, and application to examine the ways humans communicate, both verbally and non-verbally, across a variety contexts, including organizations, relationships, healthcare settings, and the media.

The Digital Journalism program is infused with the spirit of investigative, explanatory journalism, a civic-rooted journalism that seeks to make good on H.L. Mencken's call for journalists to "afflict the comfortable and comfort the afflicted." Beyond informing the public, the young journalists in our program seek to engage citizens, create a public debate, and push readers and viewers to be more than mere spectators.

The economics program at Fairfield University blends modern economic concepts with current issues, preparing students for careers in the private and public sectors, at both domestic and international levels, as economists, analysts, and upper-level managers.

Fairfield’s editing and publishing minor is open to students in any major, providing in-depth and scholarly explorations in the academic program in addition to practical skills in editing, page design, and publishing.

The Department of English offers a flexible and challenging curriculum, allowing students to experience a wide range of approaches to literature and writing. This program provides a solid core of literary courses, allowing students the opportunity to create an individualized program that reflects their interests and passions.

Environmental Studies is one of the most interesting, exciting and fastest growing fields. By combining cutting edge coursework in environmental science, policy, economics, and philosophy with real world workshops and internships, Fairfield University's Environment Studies program prepares students for the tremendous opportunities and challenges in the years ahead. At Fairfield, you can become part of the solution.

The film, television, and media arts major and minor provides students with a detailed understanding of the visual, creative, and communicative power of various media. Upon graduation, you will be fully prepared to continue your education in postgraduate programs or join the workforce as a knowledgeable professional in such fields as broadcasting, public relations, advertising, telecommunications, and marketing.

Fairfield's French program helps students master the French language while exploring the rich cultures of France and Francophone regions through diverse coursework, study abroad, and internship opportunities. The program combines advanced skills in grammar, composition, and translation with cultural studies in literature, film, and business French, preparing students for global careers.

Fairfield’s German program immerses students in the language and culture of Germany through coursework, study abroad opportunities, and a capstone seminar. Students develop strong verbal and written communication skills while exploring topics like German philosophy, history, and literature.

The interdisciplinary minor in graphic design asks students to learn, reflect, and act as designers, preparing them for work in the increasingly complex world of design. The minor offers students the ability to develop design skills, explore different understandings of visual communication, enhance other fields of study, and prepare for a variety of careers.

A minor in Greek and Latin allows students to expand their linguistic knowledge while deepening their understanding of history, philosophy, and more.

Fairfield's Health Studies program offers an interdisciplinary minor that provides the opportunity to learn more about the complex issues related to the current and future environment of contemporary healthcare.

The Department of History at Fairfield University is dedicated to teaching its students to understand today's world through the study of the past. Working collaboratively in small classes, along with an exciting faculty, you will hone the skills and outlook needed to succeed as a global citizen and future professional.

Fairfield’s Italian program offers students the opportunity to master the Italian language while exploring the country’s rich culture through courses on topics like literature, cinema, and art. Students can study abroad in Florence and complete their learning with a capstone seminar that integrates their experiences and demonstrates proficiency.

The Italian Studies Program focuses on a nation and people whose contribution to civilization has been significant. Virtually every area of the arts, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics partakes of that heritage, and Italy continues to influence cultural, political, scientific, and economic trends today.

An opportunity to learn about the intriguing history, politics, literature, and art of Ireland is available to you through a minor in Irish studies at Fairfield. You can choose to focus on topics such as the troubled history of the nation and its colonial and postcolonial significance, difficult politics of Northern Ireland, or inspired art and literature that emerged from its turbulent past.

The Islamic World Studies minor at Fairfield University introduces students to this diverse population by exploring the historical, political, and religious aspects of Muslim societies as well as the artistic, literary, and cultural achievements of Islamic civilization.

Dating back nearly 4,000 years, Judaism is the world's oldest monotheistic faith and the foundation of both Christianity and Islam. Studying Judaism is thus central for understanding the roots of Western Civilization. This is especially true at Fairfield University, an institution whose rich Jesuit heritage is deeply rooted in the Catholic tradition.

Fairfield University's commitment to a humanistic perspective and to the concept of social justice requires that Fairfield students be introduced to the "other" Americans who inhabit this hemisphere. The vibrant cultures of the Caribbean and Central and South American nations - which blend indigenous, European, and African influences - provide a rich field of study that can be approached from many points of view.

The Leadership Ethics minor provides a philosophical grounding to student study and practice of the essential concepts related to effective ethical leadership: character, influence, power, justice, and the common good. Students interested in leadership positions gain a comprehensive understanding of over 2,500 years of ethics, reasoning, and the relation between the two.

As a degree completion program, a major in Liberal & Professional Studies through the Bachelor in Liberal & Professional Studies Program lets you finish what you started. Working closely with your advisor in this interdisciplinary and flexible program of study, you’ll be on your way to earning your BA or BS in Liberal & Professional Studies.

The mathematics program teaches students to think analytically, to find connections between concepts, and to spot patterns both in abstract settings and in practice. Through this program, you will gain the skills, disciplinary awareness, and preparation to pick your career path, either through graduate study or in a multitude of professions.

Fairfield University’s Mathematics Department offers a curriculum that integrates traditional, applied, and modern mathematics, providing students with a strong and comprehensive foundation in mathematical statistics.

The Department of Modern Languages and Literatures (MLL) offers courses in the prominent modern languages of the world, including Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Brazilian, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish. As a MLL major, you will expand your proficiency in a foreign language and prepare yourself for a life and career in a progressively global world.

Music majors and minors at Fairfield develop their creative skills by exploring the many dimensions of music, while also building their critical, analytical, and aesthetic thinking skills. The training received in the Music Department will allow you to become cultured leaders on the forefront of music, music education, and other related fields.

"You must be the change you want to see in the world" – Mahatma Gandhi ‌The Program in Peace and Justice Studies is an expression of the Jesuit educational commitment, which is fundamentally identified with the promotion of the values of peace and justice. The program is based on the principle that true peace is not only the absence of hostilities, but also requires the establishment of a just social order providing a decent and dignified life for all. Interdisciplinary program with minor only.

The Philosophy Department offers students an understanding of philosophical topics through the study of great modern thinkers, as well as classical scholars. The program is designed to cultivate the confidence and skills of its students, while broadening their critical and logical thinking abilities.

At Fairfield University, students learn to apply physical principles and creative theory to logically predict the behavior of the physical universe. This major offers you the flexibility to pursue careers in the fields of health, computer science, medicine, law, and education.

The Department of Politics offers a stimulating, balanced curriculum, which covers all fields of the profession: political theory, American and comparative politics, and international relations. Upon graduation, you will be well versed in the affairs and theories of the contemporary world, and have the skills to succeed in the job market or continue on to graduate school.

As an integral part of a liberal arts education, psychology studies the processes, behavior, and experience of humans, and is used to improve people's mental health and lives. With a degree in psychology, you will have the knowledge and abilities for careers in related fields such as law, education, social work, and public policy.

Public administration is the on-the-ground implementation of governmental policies and programs as well as an academic discipline. The public administration minor consists of a curated set of multidisciplinary courses prepare students for internships, public sector jobs, and graduate programs in public administration.

Our exciting major in PR is grounded in the liberal arts and is designed to provide a broad overview of this exciting and growing field. You’ll study media, crisis communication, public advocacy, and a wide range of other topics that are essential to the academic study and practice of public relations.

The BS in Quantitative Economics within the College of Arts and Sciences emphasizes mathematical skills and statistical analysis to prepare students for quantitative applications of economic theory.

The Religion in America minor focuses on the study of religious traditions, people, history, and ideas in the American, particularly United States, context. Students explore traditions both endemic and imported to the United States, as well as themes of religious and national identity; the intersectionality of race, gender, ethnicity, sexuality, and religion in American society; and the relationship between religion and American culture.

Students majoring in Religious Studies explore the philosophy and reasoning behind religion and the beliefs of cultures across the globe. Throughout the program, you will gain an informed perspective of the world's religions, and you will be able to apply it to fields such as education, law, business, and social services.

Fairfield’s undergraduate minor in rhetoric and professional writing supports students in developing expertise in the use of rhetorical concepts and practical skills.

The end of the Cold War, along with the collapse of the Soviet Union and communist regimes in Eastern Europe, offers a unique opportunity to take a fresh look at an old field: Russian, East European, and Central Asian area studies. Formerly caught within the framework of the Cold War, new societies are emerging, struggling to come to grips with their pasts and forging their own unique futures. Interdisciplinary program with minor only.

The sociology and anthropology program challenges students to examine the social and cultural dimensions of the modern world. Due to the diversity of the major, you are given an excellent start toward gaining acceptance into graduate school, or finding careers in such fields as business, marketing and communication, criminal justice, and social work.

Fairfield’s Spanish program provides students with opportunities to master the Spanish language while exploring the rich cultures of Spain and Latin America. With diverse coursework, study abroad options, and internship opportunities, students gain practical language skills and cultural knowledge to succeed in professional and global environments.

Experiential, analytical, and interdisciplinary, the sports media program encompasses the main tenets of the industries that make up the larger sports media environment, including journalism, broadcasting, communication, and public relations. Students critically evaluate the social, cultural, and political issues that surround sport, while learning the professional skills needed for careers in sports media.

The studio art program focuses on students' creative inquiry, and provides a platform to develop the techniques, sensibility, and understanding necessary for working with different materials. A studio art major provides a solid basis for continuing work in graduate school or finding work in art-related fields such as design, teaching, museum and gallery curating, art therapy, design, and advertising.

The theatre program at Fairfield University offers students a liberal arts education infused with the theoretical and everyday aspects of the theatre profession. A theatre major prepares you for a multitude of careers. Our graduates have gone on to become industry experts, as well as managers, lawyers, and educators.

Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies is an interdisciplinary minor that challenges the cultural, intellectual, social and political assumptions about sex, gender and sexuality systems. Courses in the program critically engage issues of race, ethnicity, class, gender, sexuality and other key components of identity, and the ways they intersect.