About the UT Tyler College of Arts & Sciences

Message From the Dean

Welcome to the College of Arts and Sciences at The University of Texas at Tyler! Whether you are a returning student, a newcomer, or someone exploring future academic paths, I’m glad you’ve taken a moment to visit our virtual home.

We believe this college is the heart of the university, where a spirit of discovery links learning to life. We encourage everyone—students and faculty alike—to embrace curiosity as we expand our understanding of the world around us, from the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences to the fine and performing arts.

The Value of a Liberal Arts Education

Our programs foster the critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and creativity that lead to personal growth and professional versatility. Rather than simply preparing students for a single career path, a liberal arts education offers intellectual breadth—examining how our histories, cultures, languages, scientific endeavors, and creative expressions shape us as individuals and communities.
Through this wide-ranging exploration, you’ll gain skills and perspectives that remain valuable for a lifetime:

• Analytical & Critical Thinking: Evaluating information, challenging assumptions, and solving complex problems.
• Effective Communication: Articulating ideas clearly in speech and writing, and engaging in thoughtful dialogue.
• Adaptability & Creativity: Approaching challenges with resourcefulness and flexibility.
• Global & Historical Awareness: Understanding how different perspectives, contexts, and timelines influence present-day life.

Strength in the Humanities

From language and literature to philosophy and history, our humanities programs dive into the fundamental questions of what it means to be human. Students analyze works of art and literature, examine historical events and cultural movements, and explore a broad range of worldviews. By studying the humanities, you’ll sharpen your ability to think critically and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of human experience.

Exploring the Social Sciences

Our social sciences programs—covering fields such as political science, criminal justice, social work, geography, anthropology, economics, and more—seek to understand society and human behavior. Students learn to investigate how social structures, institutions, and cultural forces shape our communities. This exploration equips graduates with the research skills and insights needed to address real-world issues, inform policy decisions, and make meaningful contributions to civic life.

Emphasis on the Sciences

From biochemistry, biology and chemistry to physics and geology, our college provides a strong foundation in the natural and physical sciences. Faculty members guide students through rigorous coursework and hands-on research, delving into challenges ranging from medical breakthroughs and environmental sustainability to technological innovation. This immersive approach equips students with both technical expertise and the intellectual curiosity needed to excel in scientific fields—and beyond.

Celebrating the Visual and Performing Arts

Our visual and performing arts programs are dedicated to cultivating artistic expression and creative collaboration. Whether students are developing their talents in music, theatre, or the visual arts, they learn to think imaginatively, communicate passionately, and bring vibrancy to our campus and community. By immersing yourself in the arts, you gain a deeper appreciation of human creativity and the power of artistic exploration.

Preparing for the Future

Regardless of your major or career goals, an education in the liberal arts and sciences equips you to navigate an ever-evolving world. By studying multiple ways of knowing—scientific, artistic, linguistic, historical, philosophical, and social—you’ll develop a lifelong love of learning, and the versatility needed to adapt to a range of professional paths.

Explore Our Programs

On our website, you’ll find details about each of our departments, degree pathways, special research centers, and arts offerings. You can also find important advising information—from selecting a major to preparing for graduation. Our faculty and staff are committed to providing a supportive environment where students feel empowered to learn, discover, and succeed.
Thank you for visiting the College of Arts and Sciences at UT Tyler. I look forward to seeing you on campus—and to the many discoveries we will share together!

Dr. Neil Gray, Dean