"The Aretê major is what attracted me to Clarkson.  Nowhere but Clarkson could I find this unique major in which I am able to pursue my passions of Business and Communications." - Carolyn Orth '09

Is there a place where business intersects with philosophy or political science?

There is at Clarkson.

It's called Aretê, a double major that fuses practical business preparation with a thorough grounding in the humanities and social sciences.  Students gain the leadership skills and human and cultural insights needed for success in today's multinational businesses.

Aretê students look beyond traditional paths and approaches. They take charge of their future by taking control of their education and playing a major role in running the program.

Aretê students are active and involved campus leaders.
The Aretê program provides a unique community learning experience that begins your first day on campus. As a first-year student, you'll spend time exploring what Potsdam and the North Country have to offer. You'll enjoy hiking in the nearby Adirondacks and attending cultural performances. Students in this major are active in student government and hold leadership positions in other campus organizations at unusually high percentages.

Aretê students have many opportunities to interact with their peers and enjoy activities that include:

• Contributing to Managing Success, a life-affirming class developed specifically for Aretê students
• Visiting local historical sites and museums
• Hiking the St. Lawrence Valley
• Traveling to Canada for cultural events
• Dining at local restaurants
• Attending a jazz, theater, or arts performance
• Learning Web page design or digital filmmaking

Aretê encourages students to take control of their own future.
You need not be concerned about an increased workload. The Aretê program includes a straightforward curriculum where students are able to enroll in courses they find appealing and credit hours are focused toward a degree, but allow for the exploration of interests. You can concentrate your studies on international business and political science or entrepreneurship and history, for example.

Faculty Interaction and Advising
Everything in the program works to integrate both sides of an Aretê student's business and liberal arts degree. As a student in the program, you will have a business faculty advisor and a liberal arts faculty advisor as well as ongoing interactions with the Aretê program director to ensure course distribution requirements are being met.


Who is the typical Aretê student?

• Has an outgoing personality
• Is independent and empowered
• Has a wide variety of interests
• Integrates studies and life
• Follows artistic pursuits for personal enjoyment
• Is interested in other people
• Participates in extracurricular activities
• Seeks opportunities for leadership
• Does not necessarily like math
• Is ambitious for success but not selfish
• Engages in community service
• Enjoys reading
• Does not watch a lot of television
• Is socially responsible
• Enjoys teamwork and group projects
• Has a good imagination and an open mind

Need a Question Answered Now or More Detailed Information?
Send an e-mail to Aretê Director and Instructor of Humanities Frances Weller Bailey