A flexible, interdisciplinary degree infusing the arts with technology
As technology reshapes how people create, communicate and connect, Stevens Institute of Technology is reimagining the study of the humanities with a new Bachelor of Arts in Literature, Culture and Media (LCM).
Offered through the School of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (HASS), the interdisciplinary degree combines literature, history, media, culture and technology, giving students the opportunity to explore how stories, ideas and technological innovation have shaped one another throughout history — and continue to influence society today.
“Stevens’ new Literature, Culture and Media major continues in our proud tradition of humanistic research and teaching. It brings together a study of cultural expression from around the globe with an exploration of the technology and media that makes culture possible,” said Assistant Professor of Literature Smaran Dayal and Associate Professor of Literature Anthony Pennino in a joint statement.
“The LCM degree program will offer students the opportunity to pursue coursework exploring a wide range of cultural materials and topics, including literary inquiry, film and video game analysis, cultural investigation, global perspectives and technological and information literacy.”
A Flexible Approach to the Humanities
The LCM degree offers a flexible pathway that encourages students to tailor their studies to their interests and goals. Grounded in literary studies, the program embraces the methodologies and perspectives of multiple disciplines across the humanities and social sciences, giving students the opportunity to pursue coursework in areas such as art, music, film and video game analysis, cultural analysis, news media and global perspectives, and technological and information literacy.
Graduates of the program will emerge as strong writers, researchers and critical thinkers, equipped to analyze texts, communicate clearly and frame ideas across cultural and professional contexts. These skills are highly valued in such fields as business, media, law, technology and government.
“We're so excited to be embracing interdisciplinarity with the introduction of the Literature, Culture and Media degree,” said Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies Jennifer McBryan. “The program provides students with the creative space to choose what elements of cultural production they want to focus on, while emphasizing the ways these different media forms cross-pollinate with major scientific ideas and technological advancements. We are preparing them through a forward-looking, tech-powered education to lead and succeed in a rapidly transforming world.”
Where Technology Meets Humanistic Inquiry
Technology is woven throughout the program, reflecting Stevens' distinctive approach to education. Students examine how technological developments have influenced literature, art, media and culture across centuries, while considering the ethical, historical and societal questions that accompany technological change.
New courses such as Fictions of AI, Storytelling from Myths to Video Games and AI and Society give students opportunities to explore how narratives evolve across mediums and how technologies such as artificial intelligence are changing the ways people create, interpret and experience stories.
At Stevens, the new Bachelor of Arts in Literature, Culture and Media offers a distinctly modern approach to the humanities — one that gives students the freedom to follow their interests while applying humanistic research and analysis to the problems of today.
