Why Study Critical Theory at K?
Let philosophy guide your activism and use your knowledge of structures, systems, and cultural norms to be an agent of societal change.
As a critical theory scholar, you will analyze the forces that shape contemporary society, identify their flaws, and learn how to improve them. You will study the human condition by exploring the relationship between society and humans; language and reality; and “truth” and power.
You will obtain this knowledge by asking the fundamental question, “what is wrong with our world, and how can we make it better?” You will address this question in a variety of contexts in interdisciplinary classes in philosophy, English, political science, art, anthropology, and sociology—such as Democracy and Democratic Theory; Ways of Seeing; and Philosophy of the Social Sciences.
The critical thinking, communication skills, and knowledge of oppressive systems you will gain throughout your concentration will prepare you for a lifetime of improving your communities at a local, national, and global level.
What can you do with a critical theory concentration?
Below are some of the careers and graduate schools of our critical theory alumni.
Careers
- Attorney
- Museum Teacher
- Campaign Manager
Graduate Schools
- Loyola University Chicago
- The Berlin School of Economics and Law
- California Institute of Arts
Meet the Current Departmental Student Advisor
Arden Schultz
(she/her)
Majors: English and Philosophy
Minor: Political Science
Concentrations: Critical Theory and American Studies
Study Abroad: Athens, Greece
Best Adjective to Describe You: Creative
What is the best thing about being part of this department?
There are a wide variety of classes to take.
What drew you to the department?
The critical theory concentration fits in very well with my other majors, minor, and concentration. This concentration allows me to connect a similar theme across many disciplines to inform my view on the historical cultural and societal orientation of the world we live in.
What is your favorite thing about K?
I love how easy it is to get involved in different groups. It doesn’t matter what year you’re in or what prior experience you have, you can join a campus club or organization and there will be no judgment.
How have you taken advantage of the flexible curriculum or experienced breadth in your education?
I found that my interests could be found in many different fields at K. I’ve taken philosophy courses, English courses, political science courses, and history courses that take into account my interests. I also really enjoy being able to take part in theater at K. Even without taking full theater classes, I am able to experience many aspects of the theater through Theater-200, which counts as 0.25 credits.
What is your Senior Integrated Project (SIP)?
I am writing a creative fiction novella for my SIP.
What are your career aspirations/next steps after K?
I believe I want to be a journalist and a creative fiction author. After K, I intend to go to grad school, but I’m not entirely sure on the details.