There are times that special academic programs are developed that transcend the typical major/minor/liberal arts and sciences requirements. Sometimes these programs go beyond the academic realm to shape the university as a whole.
Beginning with the 2007-08 academic year, the Civic Engagement Theme indeed seeks to permeate the university’s academic and student-life programming. Each spring, the faculty will select an overarching theme that will be woven into academic presentations, student-life activities and more throughout the coming year. The first year’s theme is Environmental Stewardship: Living in the Natural World.
The Pathways to Mission and Vocation program seeks to encourage students to explore vocational choices as callings and to provide experiences that will help students explore futures in pastoral ministry and church vocations. Pathways is funded by a grant from the Lilly Foundation, Inc.
Among the opportunities Bluffton offers academically talented and highly motivated students is the Honors Program. Honors students enroll in honors sections of the liberal arts and science courses that enable in-depth study of such subject areas as writing, religion, rhetoric, history, art and contemporary culture. In these courses, students apply what they are learning through service experiences. Additional opportunities for academically talented students include C. Henry Smith Scholars program, Pi Delta Society and departmental honors.
All Bluffton students have the opportunity to study abroad either for a short-term or semester-long experience. Locations include, but are not limited to, Northern Ireland, Trinidad, China, Italy, Botswana and Israel.
In appreciation of life-long learning, classes for retired individuals are available through the Institute for Learning in Retirement, which is sponsored by Bluffton University and the Elderhostel Institute Network. No tests or homework required, these classes are led by moderators and provide individuals the chance to learn about and discuss a wide variety of topics, ranging from cinema to the Korean War to the Bible’s origins to rock music and more.
Beginning with the 2007-08 academic year, the Civic Engagement Theme indeed seeks to permeate the university’s academic and student-life programming.
