Humanistic Studies examines the literature, history, and art of western culture as an integrated whole, from the end of the Roman Empire to the present. Founded as the Christian Culture Program in 1956, it features a "great books" program and pays special attention to the role played by Christianity, by women, and by non-western cultures in the making of western civilization.

Whether a student majors in Humanistic Studies or takes a course to satisfy a General Education Requirement, she enjoys lively dialogue with her professors, her classmates, and a rich diversity of cultural artifacts.

The Christian Culture Lecture, one of the department's premiere programs, provides the opportunity for students, faculty, and the larger public to experience a preeminent humanities scholar exploring some aspect of the Christian dimension of western culture. The series showcases Saint Mary's and the Humanistic Studies Program as centers of excellence in the liberal arts.