The Building Blocks of Yale’s Curriculum
Yale College courses offer students a diverse and interdisciplinary learning experience. In the liberal arts model, students take courses across a wide range of subjects—such as the humanities, sciences, social sciences, and the arts—which encourages them to think critically, communicate effectively, and understand complex issues from multiple perspectives. This broad exposure helps them discover their interests, strengths, and passions. As students engage with different subjects, they gain the insight needed to choose a major that aligns with their academic goals or career aspirations.
The Graduate and professional schools prepare students for master’s and doctoral degrees by offering courses that are typically more specialized than undergraduate courses and focus on deep engagement with theory, methodology, and current debates in the field. These graduate-level courses lead to the acquisition of advanced knowledge, research skills, and intellectual foundations necessary for independent scholarship.