About the college

The College of Humanities & Earth and Social Sciences (CHESS) is the University’s largest college. Our disciplines are as diverse as our students. Our many departments, centers and interdisciplinary programs unite behind the shared goal of educating critical and imaginative thinkers through inquiry and engagement. We encourage students to dream big, to challenge themselves, to take risks, to be successful. We cultivate leadership, self-confidence, persistence and responsiveness in a world increasingly characterized by diversity and change. We engage the community broadly, through intellectual offerings that draw from the talents of our faculty, staff, students, alumni and friends.

CHESS is one of two colleges formed in 2023 from the former College of Liberal Arts & Sciences. The initial transition to the new college, and full migration of the website, will span the 2023-24 academic year. During this time, the two new colleges will continue to share some services, like student advising, research support and alumni engagement. Thank you for your patience during this exciting and busy time.