Dean's Welcome Message

Welcome to the College of Liberal Arts

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Mississippi.

As the oldest and largest academic division on campus, the College of Liberal Arts holds a central place in the life and mission of our university. We are a vibrant and diverse community of students, faculty, staff, and alumni whose work spans the fine and performing arts, the humanities, the natural sciences and mathematics, and the social sciences. Together, these areas form the intellectual and creative foundation of a great university.

The College offers four undergraduate degrees, the Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Music, and Bachelor of Science, with 36 majors and 55 minor fields of study. At the graduate level, we offer 20 master's programs and 12 doctoral programs. These programs reflect both the breadth and depth of the liberal arts and provide students with opportunities to explore enduring questions, discover new ideas, develop their talents, and prepare for lives of purpose and impact.

Our dedicated faculty are researchers, scholars, performers, artists, scientists, and teachers whose work expands the boundaries of knowledge and creativity. In classrooms, laboratories, studios, performance spaces, and communities, they challenge students to think critically, communicate clearly, reason carefully, create boldly, and engage thoughtfully with the world around them. These are the habits of mind that prepare students not only for their first job, but for a lifetime of learning, leadership, and meaningful contribution.

Our exceptional staff uphold the mission of the College in countless ways. They support and advise our students, work alongside faculty and administrators, and provide the expertise necessary for the daily functioning of a large and complex academic community. Their commitment is essential to our success.

Our students are among the best in the country. They win competitive national awards, contribute to research and creative activity, perform and serve at the highest levels, and help lead efforts for positive change at the University and in our communities. Our alumni are equally inspiring. They are making their mark in nearly every profession and walk of life imaginable, serving as leaders, innovators, mentors, artists, scientists, educators, public servants, entrepreneurs, and engaged citizens. Their achievements are proof of the lasting value of a liberal arts education.

At its heart, a liberal arts education prepares students to ask better questions, understand complexity, adapt to change, and contribute meaningfully to the world. It helps students discover not only what they want to do, but who they want to become.

Thank you for your interest in the College of Liberal Arts. I am confident that you can find a home with us, one that will challenge you, support you, and prepare you for success in whatever lies ahead. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us as we support you on your academic journey.

Dr. Lee M. Cohen, PhD
Dean, College of Liberal Arts