UC Assistant Professor of Classics Florence Gaignerot-Driessen is studying ancient ceremonial figurines she found on Crete dating back more than 2,000 years. She's working with 3-D printing and ceramics at DAAP to build replicas.

Humanities

The humanities in the College of Arts and Sciences encompasses story, culture, ideas, language, interpretation, actual pasts and possible futures, and much else that touches upon ordinary human concerns.  Our students and alumni often remark upon the deep relevance of what they learn to their everyday lives.  While each of the seven humanities departments represents a unique set of academic interests, they all tap into collective curiosities about ourselves and others in order to inspire new ways of understanding, and improving, the world.   

Our award-winning faculty researchers, writers, and educators also provide students with essential skills – from the traditional to the cutting edge – for their lives after graduation.  Co-op opportunities likewise help students discover how to put their passions into practice in nearly any career.  Today’s humanities majors are tomorrow’s most thoughtful and innovative leaders. 

Latest News

1

How our universe expands

January 22, 2026

Researchers have mapped the night sky in the most detail yet in a bid to explain the mysteries of dark energy.

4

Pylos: From princes to a palace in Messenia

January 13, 2026

World Archaeology Magazine highlights discoveries from ancient Greece such as the Griffin Warrior by UC Classics Professor Jack Davis and Senior Research Associate Sharon Stocker. Many of the artifacts from their discoveries went on display last year in North America for the first time with an exhibit at the Getty Museum.

5

World class: Alumni travel program connects Bearcats on global scale

January 7, 2026

Most people have a natural curiosity to see the world. Meanwhile, most Bearcats enjoy being around other Bearcats. Alumni can check both boxes through the UC Alumni Association’s travel program, which offers about half a dozen excursions each year to fascinating places around the globe.

6

UC launches Bearcat Affordability Grant

January 7, 2026

The University of Cincinnati is making college more attainable for students across Ohio with the creation of the Bearcat Affordability Grant. The new grant will provide a pathway to tuition-free college for students of families who make less than $75,000 per year. Beginning in fall 2026, the Bearcat Affordability Grant will cover the remaining cost of tuition for Ohio residents who are Pell eligible.

Humanities in the News

1

How our universe expands

January 22, 2026

Researchers have mapped the night sky in the most detail yet in a bid to explain the mysteries of dark energy.

5

How to build strength without lifting weights

January 16, 2026

Lifting weights isn't the only way to build strength and muscle. Experts, including the University of Cincinnati's Christopher Kotarsky, say body-weight exercises can go a long way and are a great way to get started for someone who doesn't feel like going to the gym.

6

Co-op helps students at UC compete in a tight job market

January 14, 2026

WCPO 9 News in Cincinnati discusses UC's co-op program and job readiness in a tight job market. Journalist Taylor Woods speaks with UC students and Annie Straka, associate dean of the UC College of Cooperative Education and Professional Studies.