Liberal arts for the 21st century
Study Liberal Arts
Developing not just the mind, but also the whole being. That is what our 21st century education rooted in the liberal arts and sciences is about. Students think critically across disciplines starting with the Core Curriculum, which prepares them to be lifelong learners with the necessary skills to thrive in future careers and live meaningful lives.
13:1
student-to-faculty ratio
20
academic departments
85
academic programs
76%
students receive financial aid
92%
Positive Career Outcomes
Get to know the College of Arts and Sciences
Journey Into the Heart of USD
Third Annual Arts & Sciences Magazine
Check out our 2025 Arts & Sciences magazine! Join us as we share exciting news, discover impactful programs and initiatives, and get to know the inspiring stories of students, faculty and alumni in the heart of USD.
College of Arts and Sciences Brochure
Explore our brochure and learn more about why you might belong in the College of Arts and Sciences. Start your journey into the heart of USD to follow your passion and explore your purpose.
Hear from our students
Why a CAS major might be right for you
Learn about why students love majoring in the College of Arts and Sciences!
Step into life-long learning
Design your academic journey
Theatre and theology. Music and math. Physics and philosophy. There are limitless combinations across four disciplines for students to major and minor, including our 17 interdisciplinary programs. Diverse, award-winning faculty mentor students in radically different topics so graduates leave USD with knowledge that goes beyond their degree.
Make a connection
Belong at USD
In the College of Arts and Sciences, we value individuality and we strive to promote unity. Students from all backgrounds, identities and journeys are welcomed into and supported by the Torero community.
Get involved
Toreros are leaders. They're members. They're doers. Join one (or 10) of USD’s 180+ clubs and organizations and get a taste of the Torero community.
Live and learn. Together.
USD's Learning Communities offer academic and social harmony. Choose the theme. Live with friends. Learn about yourself.
Feel at home
It’s your favorite hangout on campus, restaurant in Little Italy, or beach spot to catch the sunset. Explore the city and find your place.
Adventure abroad
A year in Europe. A semester at sea. A spring break excursion. Experience a new place, embrace a new culture and seek horizons beyond yourself.
Just the facts
The College of Arts and Sciences is at the heart of USD, bringing Toreros to the convergence point of the arts, humanities, and natural and social sciences.
Alumni stories
Hear from Toreros
Graduates gain the intellectual and ethical footing to take on life's challenges and navigate them with purpose. But don't take our word for it — hear their stories.
Invest in your future
Navigate with purpose
87% of our graduates are employed full-time, in graduate school, or military or full-time service projects within 6 months of graduation.
$45,753 average starting salary across 20 countries
25% of grads furthering education in 8 fields
6% go into public service, government and non-profit industries
What's Happening in the College
Make a Gift
Support the college
Your gift plays a vital role in strengthening the college by providing support for our renowned academic programs, talented students and world-class faculty. There are numerous opportunities to give and your contribution ultimately leads to giving students the opportunity to thrive at USD and beyond.
Take the next step
Become a Torero
Ready to learn more? As you consider the next steps of this exciting journey, we'll be here — ready to welcome you into the Torero family!