5 Unique Majors You Can Find at Dartmouth College

Have you ever wondered what makes Dartmouth College stand out in the sea of Ivy League schools? It's not just its prestigious reputation or scenic campus—Dartmouth offers some of the most unique majors you won't find anywhere else! Tailored for students looking to break the mold, these exclusive programs combine rigorous academics with unparalleled opportunities for innovation and personal growth. 

Discover how these special programs can unlock new doors for your future and why choosing something out-of-the-ordinary might just be the best decision you make for your education!

Native American Studies

Dartmouth College's commitment to fostering a deep appreciation for Indigenous cultures and histories is embodied in its comprehensive Native American and Indigenous Studies (NAS) program. Offering both a major and minor, the program is designed to develop interdisciplinary teaching and research that enhances understanding of the diverse experiences of Indigenous communities.

Through its Native American and Indigenous Studies program, Dartmouth College offers students a unique and impactful educational journey. It's a journey that not only broadens their academic horizons but also deepens their cultural empathy and commitment to social justice. Alumni of the NAS program often maintain a close connection with Dartmouth, returning each spring for the annual Dartmouth College Powwow, a testament to the lasting impact of this transformative program.

Human-Centered Design 

Dartmouth College's Human-Centered Design minor uniquely marries technical design principles with a profound understanding of human needs, emphasizing empathy, innovation, and problem-solving. Beginning with foundational courses in engineering and design thinking, students quickly dive into the study of human behavior through ethnography and psychology, preparing them to approach design with a holistic and compassionate perspective. This program is not just about creating; it's about understanding the very people for whom the designs are intended.

Within this innovative minor, Dartmouth fosters a collaborative studio environment where project-based learning takes center stage. Students engage in real-world projects, applying their interdisciplinary knowledge to solve complex problems. Electives in sustainable design, digital arts, and social entrepreneurship allow students to tailor their education to their passions, all while maintaining a focus on designing solutions that resonate on a deeply human level. Dartmouth's Human-Centered Design minor equips students with the skills to not only excel in design but to do so with empathy and a clear understanding of their impact on society.

Latin American, Latino, & Caribbean Studies

Dartmouth College's Latin American, Latino, & Caribbean Studies (LALACS) program is an interdisciplinary journey into the heart of diverse cultures, languages, and social dynamics that define these regions. Attracting scholars from across disciplines such as history, economics, and sociology, the program delves into critical issues like poverty, injustice, and contemporary indigenous movements, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities and vibrancies of Latin American, Latino, and Caribbean societies.

The LALACS program is uniquely designed with two distinct tracks: Latin American and Caribbean Studies (LACS) and Latino Studies (LATS), each offering a tailored exploration of specific cultural and political landscapes. Dartmouth encourages students to not only study these cultures from afar but to immerse themselves directly through study abroad opportunities, community engagement projects, and language immersion programs. This hands-on approach enhances learning, fostering a deep, personal connection to the material studied and preparing students for diverse career paths in business, law, education, and beyond in both the Americas and the United States.

Biomedical Engineering Sciences

Dartmouth College’s Biomedical Engineering Sciences major is specifically designed for students eyeing a future in medical school, offering a solid foundation in both the engineering and medical realms. Dartmouth Engineering and The Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth collaborate closely, providing students with unparalleled access to cutting-edge research projects. These projects not only advance the field of biomedical engineering but also offer students hands-on learning experiences that are critical in preparing them for medical careers.

One of the most distinctive features of Dartmouth's biomedical engineering sciences major is the opportunity for students to apply for admission to The Geisel School of Medicine through the Biomedical Engineering Early Assurance Program (BME EAP). This initiative underscores Dartmouth's commitment to fostering the next generation of medical innovators and leaders by bridging engineering expertise with medical practice.

Quantitative Social Science

Dartmouth College’s Quantitative Social Science (QSS) program is an innovative major that blends technology, statistics and social sciences. Transitioning from its previous title as the Program in Mathematical Social Sciences prior to 2015, QSS has evolved to meet the growing demand for data-driven insights in the social sciences. The program emphasizes a dual competency model, where students gain technical prowess in statistics and computing, alongside a robust grounding in social science disciplines.

QSS is distinguished by its focus on applying statistical, computational, and mathematical tools to unravel social science questions. By integrating modern quantitative methods with substantive social science research, Dartmouth undergraduates are prepared to tackle complex societal issues with innovative solutions. The program offers both a minor and an honors major, allowing students to tailor their academic journey to their interests and career aspirations.

Exploring the unique majors offered at Dartmouth College reveals a world of academic innovation and interdisciplinary exploration. As you embark on their journey at Dartmouth, they are not just choosing a major; you’ll be stepping into a world of possibilities, ready to address the challenges of tomorrow with the knowledge, skills, and insight cultivated by one of the most forward-thinking institutions in the world! Want to get into Dartmouth? We can help you with that! 

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