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College of Arts & Sciences

female student

Traditionally Untraditional

About the College of Arts & Sciences

Linfield proudly champions a liberal arts education. This approach emphasizes a well-rounded course of study in the visual and performing arts, humanities, natural sciences, mathematics, and behavioral and social sciences. The College of Arts and Sciences prepares you to think critically and creatively, communicate clearly and collaborate effectively. Such preparation cultivates a sense of personal and social responsibility, intellectual curiosity and essential skills for life after graduation.

Gennie VanBeek, dean of Linfield's College of Arts & Sciences

Educating tomorrow's leaders

Message From the Dean

With its emphasis on inquiry, critical thinking and effective communication skills, the College of Arts & Sciences does not simply prepare graduates for a job. It prepares them for a lifetime of learning, growth and the ability to approach change with flexibility.

Read Gennie's message
Pioneer Hall copula

Join the Arts & Sciences community at Linfield

Admission to the College

Access to multiple areas of study led by esteemed faculty who prioritize excellence in teaching in small classroom settings. Who wouldn't want to be a part of that?
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College of Arts & Sciences

Programs of Study

students in microbiology lab

Major or Minor in

Biology

Find an entire world of discovery at Linfield while connecting classroom learning to real-world applications in the field of biology.

Jane Elliot visit

Major or Minor in

Psychology

Are you curious about why and how people think, feel, remember, believe, and behave the way they do?

theatre performance of "She Kills Monsters"

Major or Minor in

Theatre Arts

Discover your best creative self in one of the most respected theatre programs in the Northwest.

Beyond the Classroom

Personal development goes hand-in-hand with your professional development. And that pursuit occurs way beyond the traditional classroom setting. There are many opportunities here waiting to cheer you on.

Stories from the College of Arts & Sciences

Voices of Linfield

Portrait of Annemarie in the art studio.
Portrait of Annemarie in the art studio.
Portrait of Annemarie in the art studio.
Winning with the holiday blues
Discover the creativity of Linfield University's own Annemarie Mullet ’24, whose unique holiday wrapping paper design captivated the judges at Premier Press's annual contest. From a sketch to a festive reality, Annemarie's 'Snowman Friends' design embodies the spirit of the holidays and showcases her exceptional talent in digital arts. And does it in a unique blue snowflake and snowman design.
The Oak Grove on Linfield's McMinnville campus.
Emma and Faith rallying the student body at Cat Camp 2023.
The Oak Grove on Linfield's McMinnville campus.
Leading the Cat Zone
Emma Campbell ’24 and Faith Sposito ’24, president and vice president of the Associate Students of Linfield University (ASLU), have been two very influential women representing the students of the McMinnville campus.
a coffee cup with the text "Ambassador Fridays."
Portrait of Marissa Dolson '24.
a coffee cup with the text "Ambassador Fridays."
Meet Student Ambassador Marissa Dolson '24
"The field of psychology is absolutely fascinating. There is so much support in the psychology department from the professors and peers. I am so excited to expand the support system by being a psychology ambassador!"
A coffee cup with the text "Ambassador Fridays."
Portrait of Adaela Stigile.
A coffee cup with the text "Ambassador Fridays."
Meet Psychology Ambassador Adaela Stigile '25
"The psychology department is such a welcoming space, and I can't wait to connect more with incoming and current people."
A cup of coffee with the words "Ambassador Fridays."
A portrait of Zee Nace.
A cup of coffee with the words "Ambassador Fridays."
Meet Student Psychology Ambassador Zee Nace '24
"Now entering my senior year, I recognize that finding your safe space on a college campus isn't about making sure you can fit yourself into every available slot; it's about finding the space that adapts to you too. As a student ambassador, I know psychology isn't everyone's thing, but if you think it might be yours, Linfield's psychology department wants to learn your name and adapt to you too."
The top of Pioneer Hall through vibrant fall leaves.
Portrait of Mariah Johnston ’25.
The top of Pioneer Hall through vibrant fall leaves.
A Transfer Student's Triumph
When Mariah Johnston ’25 arrived at Linfield as a transfer student in her second year of college, she found that involvement was easier to achieve than expected. “With class sizes so small and super involved professors, it’s kind of hard not to get involved.”
A table in Acorn to Oak with a bottle of red wine next to two wine glasses.
Portrait of Victor Sandoval '24 in Acorn to Oak.
A table in Acorn to Oak with a bottle of red wine next to two wine glasses.
A Taste of the Wine Industry
“The sense of community has always been here [at Linfield] and it helped me find my calling.”
Spectators in the bleachers cheering during a game.
Jake Downing dribbling the basketball on the court during a basketball game.
Spectators in the bleachers cheering during a game.
Pairing His Two Passions
While it seems like sports and photography are two different mediums, Jake Downing '25 has put the two together creating a learning environment based on his specific interests.
Pioneer Hall through the trees.
Professor Schuck saluting his captain, both wearing their Navy attire.
Pioneer Hall through the trees.
From Commander to Captain
“Being a professor makes me a better Naval officer; being a Naval officer makes me a better professor.”
The entrance of Keck Science Center.
Portrait of Lizeth Quiroz '26.
The entrance of Keck Science Center.
Building Her Dream Through a Summer Internship
“There is more help for you on campus outside of the classrooms,” Lizeth Quiroz '26 said. “Explore what’s out there like career development and academic advising. There are a lot of resources here available for you.”
Students walking to class through the academic quad on the first day of fall semester.
Eight members of 2023-24 ASLU leadership in the academic quad.
Students walking to class through the academic quad on the first day of fall semester.
ASLU McMinnville Campus: 2023-24 Student Leadership
The Associated Students of Linfield University (ASLU) Cabinet is the executive branch and consists of two elected officers (president and vice president) and six officers. Meet the McMinnville ASLU team for 2023-24.
An aerial view of the Oak Grove over Pioneer Hall staged for Commencement.
Portrait of Devin Thacker '23
An aerial view of the Oak Grove over Pioneer Hall staged for Commencement.
A Leader in the Making
Devin Thacker '23 reflects on the last four years and all that he’s accomplished. “Even though Linfield is small, this has been a very big experience.”
Ho'ike performers on stage with Hawaiian flowers in the foreground.
Senior Mako Minoda performaning a dance on stage.
Ho'ike performers on stage with Hawaiian flowers in the foreground.
Celebrating 50 Years of Pacific Island Heritage
“Since this yearʻs lūʻau and hō’ike, we have been asked to perform at multiple events around the state. We are bringing the Linfield lūʻau to Adidas Headquarters in Portland!”
Country singer Chris Lane performing on stage for a crowd of students at Linfield's annual concert event, Wildstock.
Group of Linfield students with Chris Lane.
Country singer Chris Lane performing on stage for a crowd of students at Linfield's annual concert event, Wildstock.
The Wildstock Experience
"In a sea of students with my closest friends at my side, we all jumped and swayed to the headliner, Chris Lane, and I realized it’s not really about the event. What matters most is who you’re surrounded by. Thank you, Linfield, for introducing me to all of them."
The sun shining above Walker Hall.
Female student speaking to employer at the Job Fair.
The sun shining above Walker Hall.
Recruiting the Next Generation of Talent
Linfield University's Office of Career Development helps connect students with potential employers. At the end of every academic year, they host a Job Fair with recruiters present from different industries, ranging from health care to entertainment, automotive insurance, and even the local police department.
Linfield University banner on a light post with cherry blossoms in the background.
Group photo of Pike fraternity members.
Linfield University banner on a light post with cherry blossoms in the background.
Linfield Pikes Walk a Mile in Her Shoes
Walk a Mile in Her Shoes is an annual fundraising event run by the Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) fraternity. They partner with the Henderson House, a shelter for survivors of domestic and sexual abuse. They provide shelter and prevention education, among other advocacy services. 
Aerial shot of Commencement in the Oak Grove.
Meghan Mullaly '23 posing with fellow Zeta Tau Alpha sorority member.
Aerial shot of Commencement in the Oak Grove.
From Small Town to Big Possibilities
Although Meghan Mullaly’s college path wasn’t clear from the start, everything seemed to fall into place once she arrived as a student on the Linfield University McMinnville Campus. Now, thanks to Linfield's opportunities and preparation, this small-town girl knows that she is prepared to do big things.
Aerial view of Linfield's McMinnville campus looking over Pioneer Hall.
Brooke Brown '23 working in the library with a fellow student.
Aerial view of Linfield's McMinnville campus looking over Pioneer Hall.
Her Untraditional Journey to Linfield
“I do think that coming to Linfield was pretty much the best thing for me,” Brooke Brown '23 said. “It opened up so many different opportunities, ideas, friendships, and relationships that I wouldn’t have had before.”
Women Faculty in STEM
Chemistry Lab Coordinator Veronica Siller '10 working in the lab with a student.
Women Faculty in STEM
Empowered Women Empower Women
Of the 21 faculty members and instructors in Linfield’s STEM areas, 11 are women. While nationally, the number of women decrease with academic rank, half of Linfield’s women STEM leaders have earned the advanced titles of associate professor and professor.  
The top of Pioneer Hall through the trees.
Photo of Emma Sammartino '23.
The top of Pioneer Hall through the trees.
Embracing the Unexpected
Emma Sammartino '23 has always kept academics as her top priority. What she has enjoyed most about studying STEM at Linfield is the accessibility of professors. “They genuinely want you to learn and they are willing to mentor you and make sure you understand the material.”
Linfield University banner on a light post.
Portrait of Marques Herrera Kuehn '23
Linfield University banner on a light post.
Writing His Own Story
As a first-generation student beginning his last semester of college, Marques Herrera Kuehn '23 says "I am fulfilling a chapter in my family’s life that has never been opened. And I am the one writing it.”
The 1892-93 annual catalog of McMinnville College.
Portrait of Alyssa Ralston.
The 1892-93 annual catalog of McMinnville College.
Happy 165th Birthday, Linfield!
"As Linfield celebrates its 165th birthday this year, it’s a fine time to examine how the school has evolved during its lifetime."
The Colosseum.
Selfie of Kelsey Jordan '25.
The Colosseum.
Rome: Ancient and Modern Storytelling
"While we had just come from a fairly large city, somehow Rome felt more 'city-like.' It felt larger and busier, and that life was just moving at a faster pace."
The word "Pride" spelled out in rainbow-colored balloons.
LUP members sitting around a table talking and sharing a meal together.
The word "Pride" spelled out in rainbow-colored balloons.
Giving Thanks to our Pride Community
Linfield United in Pride (LUP), Linfield University's queer student union, held its first-ever Friendsgiving for Linfield’s pride community ahead of the 2022 Thanksgiving Break.
The Temple of Apollo in Greece.
Selfie of Kelsey Jordan '23.
The Temple of Apollo in Greece.
Greece: The Histories, the Stories, the Journey
"There is something simultaneously extraordinary and adorable about walking by a ruin that is two and a half millennia old and seeing a stray cat stretched over it, napping in the sun."
View from the plane flying over Athens, Greece.
Selfie of Sabrina Heizenrader '25
View from the plane flying over Athens, Greece.
Greece: Ancient and Modern Storytelling
The Wildcats Traveling Theatre blog covers the journey of 15 Linfield University students as we study abroad learning about the history of theatre and storytelling across seven different cities in Greece and Italy.
Linfield University banner on light pole
five peer educators for the Consent Awareness Training Squad
Linfield University banner on light pole
Meet the 2022-23 CATS educators
The Consent Awareness Training Squad (CATS) is a group of student leaders that work to spread awareness on and off campus about the importance of consent, healthy relationships, respect and safe alcohol habits.
A view of the top of Pioneer Hall through colorful fall leaves on trees in the Oak Grove
Trystan speaking behind a podium during the faculty resilience training session at Linfield
A view of the top of Pioneer Hall through colorful fall leaves on trees in the Oak Grove
Toward a More Inclusive Linfield
LGBTQ+ educator Trystan Reese's work at Linfield is part of an ongoing commitment to making Linfield University a place where all students, faculty and staff feel welcomed, seen and supported.
the wrestling mat being rolled out in Ted Wilson Gymnasium by three people.
Hanna Gillas '26 posing with her arms flexed in her Linfield wrestling singlet
the wrestling mat being rolled out in Ted Wilson Gymnasium by three people.
Wrestling for the Wildcats
“The women’s [wrestling] coach, Coach Alyssa, is what really drew me in,” said Hanna Gillas '26. “I knew that I’d really grow as a wrestler with her, and I knew she’d put a team together that would feel like a family.”
US and Oregon flag flying in front of Pioneer Hall
Jason Brazel with his military shadow box
US and Oregon flag flying in front of Pioneer Hall
Beyond 'Thanks For Your Service'
Linfield veterans share what they wish civilians understood about military life.
The top of Pioneer Hall through an oak tree
Portrait of Heriberto Chavez Bolanos '23
The top of Pioneer Hall through an oak tree
Building Meaningful Relationships
“When I met with my advisor, she was very welcoming, very warm and she made me feel at home,” said Heriberto Chavez Bolanos '23. “I created friendships, not only with other students but also with faculty and staff.”
Color umbrellas decorate the ceiling at the Diwali celebration
Gayatree in her sari with President Davis
Color umbrellas decorate the ceiling at the Diwali celebration
Diwali: A Festival of Lights
Diwali is the Indian Festival of Lights. Diwali is about the triumph of good over evil. Diwali is about radiance and hope. Diwali is about good food and socializing. And Diwali is about connection and respect. 
grapes on a vine in the sunlight
Emma Libby '23 posing in a vineyard
grapes on a vine in the sunlight
Discovering Linfield
Emma Libby ’23, like many Linfield students, took advantage of the university’s many versatile study-abroad opportunities. She spent the spring semester of 2022 learning about wine in France.
an aerial view of Linfield University McMinnville Campus in fall
Kayley, Matigan and Olivia performing with the Linfield Dance Team at a Wildcat football game
an aerial view of Linfield University McMinnville Campus in fall
My Bonus Families For Fall Family Weekend
Linfield’s annual Fall Family Weekend brought forth a flood of Wildcat families. Kayley Dombrigues '25 spent hers with the families of her roommates, Olivia Welsh ’25 and Matigan Dodge ’25. Kayley said, "By folding me into their family activities, I felt the security and warm-loving comfort of family in the absence of my own."
Linfield student teacher with elementary students studying insects at Miller Woods
Jackie Bravo helping elementary students discover insects in a pond
Linfield student teacher with elementary students studying insects at Miller Woods
Learning at Miller Woods
On a visit to Miller Woods nature park, several Linfield University education majors helped second-graders learn about insects that live in a pond, how to predict weather and the good things bees do, during a science field trip.
The inside of Mary Bridge Children's Health Center
Mia Naccarato '24 outside of Mary Bridge Children's Health Center
The inside of Mary Bridge Children's Health Center
Unforgettable Experience
Mia Naccarato '24 was nominated by faculty for Linfield’s Presidential Impact Internship Program. It changed the course of her undergraduate studies.
Portrait of Ambassador Friday
Picture of Rosalie Covey
Portrait of Ambassador Friday
Meet Psychology Student Ambassador Rosalie
"I love working with the psych department because there are so many opportunities to get involved."
the front entrance of Linfield's Nicholson Library
Student employee reorganizing the archives.
the front entrance of Linfield's Nicholson Library
Students Are Agents of Change
The Linfield archive and other programs on Linfield campuses present students with opportunities to change the world, or even a small piece of it, for the better throughout their time as a Wildcat.
Aerial picture of Linfield's McMinnville campus
Picture of Emma and Preslie
Aerial picture of Linfield's McMinnville campus
ASLU McMinnville Campus: 2022-23 Student Leadership
The Associated Students of Linfield University (ASLU) Cabinet is the executive branch and consists of two elected officers (president and vice president) and six officers. Meet the McMinnville ASLU team for 2022-23.
Linfield choir performance a benefit concert for Ukraine in Ice Auditorium
Anton Belov performing opera
Linfield choir performance a benefit concert for Ukraine in Ice Auditorium
Opera events share spotlight with music of Ukraine
“We are producing several winery events. We are producing special Ukraine concerts that feature music of Ukraine and we are producing a new opera,” said Director Anton Belov.
Janessa at the NCAA Men's March Madness
A photo of Janessa Yniguez
Janessa at the NCAA Men's March Madness
Seizing the Opportunity
With close relationships with professors, supportive teammates on and off the basketball court and a trip to the NCAA women's basketball championship tournament, rising senior Janessa Yniguez ’23 has made the most of every opportunity presented during her time at Linfield.  
dancers on the stage at the lu'au surrounded by Hawaiian floral decorations
portrait of Taetum
dancers on the stage at the lu'au surrounded by Hawaiian floral decorations
From Linfield Hoodie to Linfield Lu'au
First-year student Taetum Lynn Kalani '25 was more than ready to dance in Linfield University’s 49th Annual Lu'au and Ho'ike. You could say that it all began with her grandfather’s Linfield hooded sweatshirt.
Camas in full bloom in Cozine Creek
Visitors perusing the booths at the Camas Fest
Camas in full bloom in Cozine Creek
Linfield's Inaugural Camas Fest
One of those backyard ecosystems at Linfield sits on the north side of campus around Cozine Creek. Fleeger helped jumpstart a major restoration project there alongside the Greater Yamhill Watershed Council (GYWC). Linfield students and faculty members worked with the watershed council to begin removing invasive blackberry bushes.
the courtyard outside of Riley Hall in the spring
Lucy Kerr '24 sitting down outside of Starbucks, smiling
the courtyard outside of Riley Hall in the spring
A Helping Hand
For sophomore Lucy Kerr '24, helping others has always been the priority. The pre-nursing major came into Linfield as a first-generation student. She now lends a helping hand to those in the same position.
aerial view of campus looking to the valley over Pioneer Hall
Sabrina Heizenarder '25 posing for the camera.
aerial view of campus looking to the valley over Pioneer Hall
A Peaceful Journey
In addition to her undergraduate studies, Sabrina Heizenrader '25 quickly found a place in Linfield’s Learning Across Boundaries (LAB), where student-led initiatives aim to help the greater Linfield community. Her focus with LAB this year is on mental health.
Robert in a scene from Treasure Island
Robert Turner '24 as Long John Silver in Linfield Theatre Program's performance of Treasure Island
Robert in a scene from Treasure Island
Debuting on Linfield's Stage
"Treasure Island was certainly the most nervous I've been on-stage in a while," Robert Turner '24 said. "I hadn't acted in front of a live audience in two years."
The Flood family pictured together at Linfield's homecoming 2021 football game
Annie Flood '25 biting her gold medal
The Flood family pictured together at Linfield's homecoming 2021 football game
Making My Life Extraordinary
"When my parents finally made the decision, they knew amputation was the best choice for me and that the doctors were going to be right. However, there was one thing that the doctors were completely wrong about. I was going to be anything but ‘normal’, I was going to be extraordinary, and my family made sure of that."
the academic quad in winter at sunrise
Jane Samuels and Natalie Welch pictured with WildX student contributors, Keaton Wood, Madison Reimer and Andy Starkel at a 2021 Commencement ceremony.
the academic quad in winter at sunrise
Creating a Space for Difficult Conversations
"We wanted to create a space to process our thoughts and feelings. Not just for us – for the entire Linfield community."
a vibrant performance of dancers at Linfield's 2021 Hispanic Heritage Celebracion
group photo of students and Folklórico dancers at Linfield's 2021 Hispanic Heritage Celebracion
a vibrant performance of dancers at Linfield's 2021 Hispanic Heritage Celebracion
Honoring Latinx Culture
Linfield University Latinx Adelante (LULA) organizes the annual Hispanic Heritage Celebración at Linfield during Hispanic Heritage Month. It is a festival with live music, food from all over Latin America, activities for kids, and a variety of vendors showcasing different Latino-owned goods.
the top of Pioneer Hall through the oak trees
portrait of Karina Alcantara Guerrero '23
the top of Pioneer Hall through the oak trees
Dedication to Diversity
"As a first-generation student, there's going to be times where [you feel] like you don't belong in this space. But you have to remember that you deserve what you have because you have worked for it and you shouldn't doubt your ability." 
Sun shining through the trees in the academic quad
portrait of Ruby Trujillo '24 outside of Melrose Hall
Sun shining through the trees in the academic quad
Cultivating Community
As students explore the uncommon at Linfield University, sophomore Ruby Trujillo '24 values the personal growth she has found through the growing diversity on campus.
Ford Hall, Linfield's theatre
Linfield Theatre Podcast Productions graphic
Ford Hall, Linfield's theatre
Seamless Storytelling
At a young age, Caroline Calvano harnessed her love of storytelling. "Thanks to Linfield, I have definitely gained so much knowledge about the ins and outs of what it's like being a professional writer."
senior bench art for the class of 2021
close-up of the senior bench art for the class of 2021
senior bench art for the class of 2021
A Sign of Resilience
As they embark on their next journey, the class of 2021 leaves behind a legacy that truly encapsulates the Linfield experience: uncommon.
flame thrower at Linfield's 48th Annual Lu'au and Ho'ike
Linfield's Hui O Lōkahi Club
flame thrower at Linfield's 48th Annual Lu'au and Ho'ike
Linfield's 48th Annual Lu'au and Ho'ike
Each performance was a beautiful celebration of culture, community and art under the theme of No Ka Lāhui, which means “for the nation.” This phrase grew out of a movement to protect sacred Hawaiian land from desecration. 
Jillian Quiett '23
Jillian and her mini Lionhead Rabbit Emery
Jillian Quiett '23
Comforting Companions
Living with a pet can come with many benefits in everyday life, like encouraging exercise, socialization and reducing the likelihood of stress and anxiety.
Linfield’s Hui O Lōkahi Club rehearsal for the 2021 lu'au
students rehearsing for the 2021 lu'au
Linfield’s Hui O Lōkahi Club rehearsal for the 2021 lu'au
Carrying On With Tradition
The Hui O Lōkahi Club’s (formerly Hawai’i Club) lu'au has been a longstanding tradition here at Linfield. Unlike last year, COVID-19 won't stop them from putting on a great show this spring, thanks to adaptive event planning and safety protocols.
Linfield University McMinnville campus
Salma Galvan portrait
Linfield University McMinnville campus
Experiencing a New Way of Life
“I hope to live in Ecuador as authentically as I can; not to be a tourist, but rather a part of the community.”
students on first day of classes
Linfield University banner
students on first day of classes
Staying the course
Now is not the time for complacency.
Brielle Kromer riding in rodeo
Brielle Kromer
Brielle Kromer riding in rodeo
Rodeo Reign
At two weeks old, Brielle Kromer was already at her first rodeo.
Alana Nuttman in a group hug with her student athletes
Alana Nuttman coaching
Alana Nuttman in a group hug with her student athletes
Compassion and Compression
Her desire to help people and passion for sports aligned perfectly when Alana Nuttman decided to major in athletic training her freshman year at Linfield.
Campus View
Kay Livesay
Campus View
Professor Kay Livesay
Emoji's Mean What?
Lee Bakner
Lee Bakner
Lee Bakner
Professor Lee Bakner
How can we better understand the contributing factors and behaviors to addiction?
Frederick Douglass Symposium
Image of Alexander Scholar Caitlin Meek
Frederick Douglass Symposium
Alexander Scholar - Caitlin Meek
"Get involved early! Going to Scholarship Competition Day and introducing myself early on has really helped me during my first semester at Linfield."
Aerial view of McMinnville campus
New Linfield faculty members fall 2019
Aerial view of McMinnville campus
Meet Linfield's newest faculty members
A roller derby announcer. A podcast host. An artist. Linfield's newest professors are brilliant and an interesting group.

Meet our faculty

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Contact us

Please reach out with any questions about Linfield University's College of Arts & Sciences. We'd look forward to connecting with you!

Linfield University
College of Arts & Sciences
Renshaw Hall
503-883-2409
msymons@linfield.edu