Undergraduate Minors and Certificates

Certificate

Actuarial Science

Do you want to use your math and analytical skills to make a positive impact? You can help people and organizations plan for the future and protect themselves from loss. Actuaries participate in high-level business decision-making and solve problems in every industry.

Explore the culture and history of African-descended peoples with a dynamic group of faculty from a wide variety of backgrounds. Students with this minor frequently go into areas such as law, business and medicine.

Do you want to advocate for social justice? Gain a deeper understanding of African and African American peoples' culture and history and an in-depth knowledge of prominent issues in their communities to help you excel in fields such as law, business and medicine.

Governance in American Indian communities is unique and complex, as is the ongoing relationship between Indian nations and nonnative governments. Increase your understanding of our world by learning more about the fascinating history and current state of Native American governance.

An understanding of American Indian nations, perspectives and challenges can help you break down barriers and build up communities. Gain a foundational knowledge to prepare you as an informed citizen and activist.

Do you have an eye for detail? Are you good with numbers? A lucrative career in risk management may be perfect for you.

Minor

Anthropology

Are you intrigued by human behavior, history and biology? With the tools to explore the lessons of human nature and a deep understanding of who we are and where we came from, you'll be prepared for success in many different careers.

Certificate

Arabic Studies

Earning a certificate in Arabic, the language of more than 22 countries, shows a commitment to understanding the cultures of a region with global impact. By learning the Arabic language and about Arabic literature and culture, you'll develop knowledge that is in demand in today's job market while broadening your perspective on global issues.

Social media and nightly news are filled with events touching the Middle East and Islamic nations. But how many people understand the deep issues at hand? You can as you explore the cross-cultural dynamics of Islamic civilization in this program.

China is an important force in the world. Study Chinese and gain a deep understanding of a rich and diverse culture.

Studying Japanese opens the door to a variety of new career paths, experiences and opportunities for personal growth, career development and global exploration. Regardless of where your interests lie, the Japanese language can help take you where you want to be.

Explore the fundamental contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to U.S. society through historical, cultural and political lenses, with a focus on how events have impacted their individual and community experiences.

Learn about the contributions and experiences of Asian Pacific Americans and Pacific Islanders and how those experiences have shaped societies and cultures in the U.S. You'll have the opportunity to explore these issues through a variety of historical, cultural and political lenses.

Certificate

Asian Studies

Explore Asian culture and history to better understand and complement fields of research that interest you, such as art, technology, finance and law.

Minor

Astronomy

Explore the latest discoveries about Earth's solar system, our galaxy and the universe. Join the students and faculty in astronomy who are building space-flight hardware, making astronomical observations, discovering new planets, exploring cosmology and engineering new instruments for telescopes and satellites.

Minor

Astrophysics

Learn about Earth's solar system, our galaxy and the universe. Join astrophysics students and faculty who are building space-flight hardware, making astronomical observations, discovering new planets, exploring cosmology and engineering new instruments for telescopes and satellites.

Certificate

Atmospheric Sciences

Gain extensive knowledge of the study and practice of meteorology and climatology. Prepare to become even more competitive for positions in your primary field of study with intersections in meteorology.

Minor

Biochemistry

Add a minor in biochemistry to your major and expand your ability to think creatively about problems in fields as diverse as medicine and renewable energy. Anything is possible when you start to see life from a molecular perspective.

Are you captivated by the variety and wonder of life around us? Are you curious about how organisms grow, interact and affect each other? Dive in and build a strong foundation of knowledge, critical thinking skills and key lab techniques that will compliment your major area of study and help launch your career.

Certificate

Brazilian Studies

Explore Brazilian culture and history through courses that encourage you to think about Brazil beyond media images of samba and Carnival. Become a global leader committed to social justice and cross-cultural understanding through any career path you choose.

Minor

Chemistry

Do you enjoy thinking about scientific problems at the molecular level but still have interests in many different areas? This minor may be just right for you. You'll gain a strong foundation of knowledge through both theoretical and experimental courses.

Do you want to play a role in shaping our society? You can, with a foundation of skills grounded in the liberal arts and sciences that are designed to meet the challenges of the future.

Certificate

Civic Education

Develop your political voice while learning the rights, responsibilities and intellectual foundations that go along with membership in American democracy. Become a more informed participant when exercising the rights to vote and seek change.

Certificate

Civil Communication

Learn the value of robust, honest and constructive dialogue that advances public interest. With your ability to engage in public disagreement with civility and consideration, you'll be able to contribute to building and nurturing communities.

"Where does that come from?" The answer is often: ancient Greece and Rome. Learn about ancient literature, art and thought, and discover insights into any major you pursue. Gain a deeper understanding of the present and a clearer vision for the future by studying the civilizations and wisdom of the past.

Certificate

Classical Studies

Scratch the surface of the modern world and you'll find antiquity: ancient Greek and Latin language, the old myths and gods, classic literature, art and thought. An understanding of classical studies gives you a new perspective in any career you pursue.

Minor

Classics

Scratch the surface of the modern world and you'll find antiquity: ancient Greek and Latin language, myths and gods, literature, art and thought. You will gain a deeper understanding of the present and a clearer vision for the future by studying the language, civilizations and wisdom of the past.

Acquire the tools to understand, analyze and respond to communication problems and opportunities in relationships, workplaces and groups. Explore the complex role of human communication in everyday life and learn how to communicate effectively whether with one person or large and diverse groups.

Do you have a curious mind and a passion for solving problems in new ways? You can make a powerful impact in today's fast-changing research landscape by using new technologies to mine life-changing answers from science data.

How do scientists use math to represent the behavior of objects and systems? Gain a strong foundation in critical analysis, and be prepared to work in a wide variety of fields, including software development, governmental research, medical research, logistics and finance.

Certificate

Cryptology

Cryptology is necessary everywhere in today's technological world. Want to learn how to protect personal, financial and sensitive public-sector information? Prepare for a career in national security, communication systems, electronic banking, internet commerce and just about any field that requires secure data.

Minor

Data Science

See your current field of study through a new lens. By becoming adept with specific data science skills, you can make informed decisions about the world around you.

Certificate

Disability Studies

Challenge your views of disability through the voices of diverse, disabled cultures. Study social constructions of disability through ableist media portrayals, stereotypes, institutional abuses and exclusionary school policies by examining the lived experiences and perspectives of people with disabilities, their families and communities.

Certificate

Economic Justice

Do you want to promote the growth of sustainable communities? Are you interested in creating new approaches to economic justice? You can gain the skills necessary to design, manage and evaluate initiatives that can revitalize communities.

Minor

Economics

Are you interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the interactions between individuals, firms and governments? Gain insights into the economies of households, and private and public entities.

Minor

English

Enhance your critical thinking and communication skills and develop your creativity through your choice of courses in literature, writing and linguistics.

Where did language come from, and how does it shape our thinking and actions? Explore the historical and cultural aspects of the English language, and consider how you can apply this knowledge in a variety of settings.

Open up your world to new cultures and perspectives. Studying literature encourages you to consider your role within diverse people, places and ideas, and deepens your understanding of what it means to be human. The critical and analytical writing and comprehension skills you learn can enhance any major.

Explore the relationships between humans, nature and the environment, and be better prepared to engage in activities that lead to meaningful social and environmental change.

Certificate

Ethics

Ethics are the foundation of many legal and political systems. Pair your bachelor's degree with the study of ethics to become a better philosophical thinker who can solve ethical problems.

Certificate

European Studies

The pressing issues facing Europe today reveal its tremendous diversity and the globalizing elements that invite investigation. When you understand complex European relations and dynamics in the past and present, you stand out as a globally informed leader with critical thinking and communication skills.

Certificate

Evolutionary Medicine

Do you have a curious mind and a passion for solving problems in new ways? You can make a powerful impact in the future of medicine and human health by using a holistic approach to ideas about evolution, disease and public health.

Understand the human experience and the important contexts in which we develop. Gain valuable skills that prepare you to work with children, youth and families.

Certificate

Field Geology

Enhance your prospects for geology-related careers, internships or graduate school opportunities with a foundation in field-based geologic skills.

Are you a movie buff? Discover everything from film classics to new cinema and their impact on society and culture. Explore television, emerging media and film genres to gain a greater understanding of yourself and others.

Minor

French

Learn one of the most widely spoken and important languages in the world and explore different French-speaking cultures, all in preparation for a variety of creative and international professions.

Explore the social and cultural constructs of gender in this certificate program.

Gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be a feminist, and explore new ways of viewing the world.

Learn to utilize technology with geographic information science to help companies innovate and navigate the world.

Minor

Geography

Develop a deeper understanding of the physical world, geographic regions and cultures.

Are you interested in discovering more about Earth's present, past and future? Join students and faculty who are exploring the physics and chemistry of Earth's interior, mapping surface processes and structures, applying novel analysis techniques to earth materials and investigating Earth--climate interactions.

Minor

German

Study German to connect to other parts of the globe you never thought possible. Whether you are interested in engineering, science, health, sustainability, global business or art, you'll see immediate benefits from studying German.

Are you passionate about helping people? Improving health conditions for all people requires passion and understanding. Enhance your major with a holistic examination of human health. Learn innovative and practical skills grounded in anthropology, and prepare to help solve today's global health challenges.

Are you interested in global issues? Do you hope to live or work abroad? Complement your major with the analysis of a variety of international issues, global institutions and policy problems.

Looking for an interdisciplinary certificate to prepare you as a globally informed citizen? Whether your interests lie in social, political or economic issues, exploring the historical origins and current effects of globalization through a cultural lens is the foundation you need to better understand today's world.

Minor

History

Explore the past to prepare for the future in any career you choose. Complement your current degree with a foundational background in history, selecting from an assortment of topics, like international history or the history of college sports.

Do you have a curious mind and a passion for the way philosophical views and scientific discovery are interconnected throughout our history? You can make a powerful impact in the future of human health by exploring how this complex interaction influences human society and cultural production.

Certificate

Human Rights

Human rights are an integral part of a just society. As a student with a certificate in human rights, you will develop the skills to identify human rights violations, analyze their causes and consequences, and formulate approaches for redressing the harms they perpetuate.

Are you thinking about a career in health care? Gain an edge by learning to understand the complex and interdisciplinary facets of health, including how empathy, mindfulness, resilience and compassion intersect with research and care.

Certificate

International Cinema

Movies provide powerful insight into diverse cultures and viewpoints that can help shape thinking. Studying international cinema gives you a global perspective that will help you become a culturally literate and engaged citizen.

Certificate

International Studies

Power and statecraft, national security and globalization. Gain a deeper understanding of the connections between these important concepts and topics discussed in the media every day.

Certificate

Islamic Studies

Explore the history and politics of Islam, from the Great Wall of China to the Islamic Center of America in Michigan. Develop a nuanced understanding of Muslims and their many contributions to world culture.

Minor

Italian

Delve into the rich language, history and culture of Italy, a global leader in art, fashion design, food, sustainability, engineering and more. Your knowledge of Italian will help you understand innovative developments in these fields.

Certificate

Jewish Studies

Gain a deeper understanding of Jewish history and religion, Jewish interactions with majority cultures and the Jewish contribution to contemporary society. Enhance your historical and cultural appreciation for Jews and Judaism through this globally focused program.

Learn how to create meaningful change by becoming an advocate for social, economic and political justice on a global level. A justice studies minor gives you a broad understanding of the world's justice systems, which can complement and empower a variety of majors.

Minor

Korean

Korean language and culture starts with K-pop and expands into geopolitics, international security, the global marketplace and technological innovation. Find out how Korea connects with the rest of the world.

Certificate

Korean Studies

Understanding Korea's central role in the global marketplace, technological innovation and cultural exchange while developing critical language skills will set you up as a globally informed leader in a variety of career paths.

Learn to interact with diverse Latin American populations and open the door to the rich cultures, languages and histories of Latino and Hispanic communities.

Did you know that Latinos are among the fastest growing ethnic populations in the United States? Gain a deeper understanding of issues pertaining to Latino politics and policies and their effect on the community.

If you're passionate about making the future brighter in the LGBTQ+ community, you'll want to begin by relating to the personal experiences of those around you. In this program, you'll broaden your connections and develop your skills as an activist to better engage in participatory democracy and effect change in our ever-shifting society.

Are you intellectually curious and eager to expand your knowledge of engineering? You'll enjoy this program's integrated approach, which offers a deeper look at how math and engineering intersect and inform each other.

Minor

Mathematics

Critical thinking and problem-solving are desirable qualities in any career. Math is the perfect area in which to develop these skills. Increase your employability with a math minor.

Hone your leadership skills, including the ability to communicate effectively, motivate teams, negotiate, and solve any challenge you may encounter. Complement your major by gaining this specialized skill set that is sought by many employers.

Certificate

Modern Hebrew

An understanding of modern Hebrew adds context and nuance to any study of the complex issues at play in the Middle East.

Minor

Philosophy

If you have a curious mind, add a philosophy minor to your degree program. Reading comprehension, combined with logical reasoning and writing skills, creates a well-informed citizen and prepares you for the workplace.

Prepare to become an active, engaged citizen in our democratic and globalized world through this multidisciplinary certificate. Expand your perspective on moral, economic and political issues while acquiring the analytics skills that will enable you to thrive in today's world.

Minor

Physics

Do you have a desire to better understand the world around you? With a minor in physics, you'll extend your studies in the nature, structure and interactions of matter and radiation while developing the fundamental scientific understanding and problem-solving skills you'll need to succeed in a variety of challenging career opportunities.

Certificate

Planetary Science

Explore strange new worlds in our solar system and beyond. Learn how to assess their geologic evolution, surface environments and atmospheres and how to search for possible biosignatures. Acquire new skills to enhance your preparation for exciting careers, with opportunities in the burgeoning space exploration industry in Arizona and across the nation.

Certificate

Political Economy

In a world of constant political and economic change, what happens in one part of the globe can have a major impact on events elsewhere. Learn about the immediate and reverberating repercussions of political and economic decisions and conditions, and be a positive force for change.

If you want to see how policy change works firsthand, you may find a perfect fit with an internship at an organization that allows you to learn in person, in real time, how change occurs and policy is made.

Don't just talk about your career plans --- act on them now. Through courses and optional weekly dialogue series, learn from guest speakers from a variety of career fields. Take advantage of faculty members who work with you to prepare resumes and apply for internships, job opportunities and graduate school.

Do you have an interest in understanding how political systems work? Explore power, politics and important public issues in the U.S. and abroad.

Minor

Portuguese

Did you know that worldwide, Portuguese is the fastest growing European language after English, is the most spoken language in South America, and is rapidly growing in southern Africa? Studying Portuguese can open the door for you to a world of new career paths and opportunities for growth and exploration.

Minor

Psychology

Complement your major by exploring the complexities of the mind, brain and behavior. Together with top faculty, you'll explore fascinating questions about the human experience and gain insightful psychology knowledge applicable to everyday life.

When you understand the crucial role of religion in both conflict and peace, you gain a broad knowledge of human division and unity. This understanding and the skills you learn in the program will be assets when pursuing your choice of career.

Explore religious traditions around the world while also examining human interactions within and among those traditions. Develop critical thinking skills and an understanding of various cultures, both of which will accompany and enrich any degree you are currently pursuing.

Minor

Romanian

Become a part of the largest Romanian program in the United States and discover what makes Romania a vibrant member of the European Union.

Minor

Russian

Study Russian and be part of a tight-knit community of students dedicated to learning a strategic language and understanding Russia's influential place on the world stage.

Explore the vast and culturally diverse region of Russia, East Europe and Eurasia. A multifaceted plan of study offers students the opportunity to immerse themselves in another culture. Students are encouraged to take advantage of study abroad opportunities to learn an in-demand but less commonly taught language such as Persian, Turkish or Ukrainian.

Gain a competitive edge with skills in the lesser known Slavic languages and an understanding of the cultures and customs in this Eastern European region.

Are you interested in analyzing human behavior through data? Learn data theories, examine theoretical research and develop your critical analysis skills. You'll leverage qualitative evidence in the world around you and gain the quantitative skills that create and confirm theories.

Do you have a passion for creating social change? Learn how social movements have shaped society, how diverse communities near and far have sought social change, and how you can develop new methods to solve social problems.

Certificate

Socio-Legal Studies

Put your understanding of the legal system into action once you understand the impacts the system has on society and how people experience law in their everyday lives.

Minor

Sociology

Complementing your studies with valuable knowledge of contemporary social issues will help you understand social change, as well as the social causes and consequences of human behavior.

Minor

Spanish

Fluency in Spanish provides a broader perspective on Spanish-speaking communities around the world, which will prepare you for future opportunities in a changing cultural landscape.

Whether it's in intense fandoms, age-old rivalries, records being broken by athletes or political controversies, sports have become embedded into everyday life. Delve deep into the human aspect of sports --- its historical background, the ethics and the cultural significance --- that affects fans and athletes alike.

Minor

Statistics

Demand for statisticians is expected to grow 32% by 2031. Be prepared to apply your skills in nearly any industry you are passionate about.

The logic of mathematics and computing is combined with the deep-thinking process of philosophy in this program that challenges both your right and left brain, preparing you for future goals with skills in language, theory and logic.

Do you have an interest in languages and people? Are you interested in making an impact locally and globally? Gain valuable teaching experience and prepare for a variety of jobs that give you opportunities to see the world.

Strengthen your research, design and leadership skills to be equipped for collaboration across disciplines. You'll be prepared to help solve complex problems and ready to lead in your chosen field of study.

Would you like to enhance your studies with knowledge of the Chicano and Latino populations in the U.S.? Learn about the culture, history, migration, health issues and media representations of these populations, and apply that knowledge to your career interests.

Certificate

Translation

Our globalized world has an increasing need for translators in both the private and government sectors. A certificate in translation can pave the way to a career in several fields.

Understand how communities can utilize alternative transportation, develop housing solutions and forge community partnerships for urban revitalization. Study the issues experienced by urban areas and the planning tools used to tackle those issues.

Certificate

Water Resources

Water resources are irreplaceable and under stress from population growth and climate change. Management of these resources is increasingly in demand from many perspectives. Acquire the fundamental knowledge and skills for managing this vital resource.

Gain valuable skills and experience to help you pursue a career working with military personnel and their families.

With the rise of technology in the workplace, effective human communication is more important than ever. Being able to communicate effectively with coworkers, clients and the public is an essential skill you can learn in this program.

Learn how to turn words into actions. Improve your communication skills, enhance your professional qualifications and career prospects, and ready yourself to help change the world.