Arizona State University Dean’s Medalist Highlights Humanities Degree as Capstone Experience

Why a Humanities Degree Matters at Arizona State University

Arizona State University (ASU) has long championed the value of a humanities education. A degree in history or religious studies equips students with critical thinking, research skills, and a deep understanding of the cultural forces that shape society. For those who have spent years in technology or other fields, a humanities degree can serve as a capstone that contextualizes past experiences and opens new career pathways.

The Dean’s Medalist Journey

From Technology to History

Richard Lingua, the School of Historical, Philosophical and Religious Studies’ fall 2025 Dean’s Medalist, spent three decades in technology before enrolling in ASU Online. His story illustrates how a humanities program can complement a technical background, providing a broader perspective on how technology intersects with society.

Graduate Thesis Focus

Lingua’s thesis, “Proportionality Versus Total War: Truman, MacArthur, and the Korean Conflict, 1950‑1951,” showcases the depth of research possible within ASU’s humanities curriculum. The project was supported by Barrett Honors College resources and faculty mentorship.

Balancing Technology Experience with Humanities Passion

Many students come to ASU with a strong foundation in STEM or business. The humanities curriculum encourages them to ask “why” and “how” questions, fostering interdisciplinary thinking. This blend is increasingly valuable in fields such as public policy, tech ethics, and cultural analytics.

ASU Online: Flexibility and Full University Experience

ASU Online offers a robust infrastructure that allows students to pursue a full university experience from anywhere. Features include:

• Live virtual lectures and discussion forums
• Access to the ASU Library’s digital collections and home‑delivery services
• Dedicated success coaches who guide course selection and career planning
• Opportunities to join in‑person events and research projects on campus

For students who need flexibility—whether due to work, family, or geographic constraints—ASU Online delivers the same academic rigor as on‑campus programs.

Barrett Honors College and Research Opportunities

Barrett Honors College enhances the online experience by offering:

• Barrett Gold Standard Award for academic excellence
• Barrett College Fellows research program
• Access to Nobel laureate faculty and advanced seminars
• Enrichment contracts that support independent research projects

These resources helped Lingua develop a strong research foundation that will serve him in graduate studies and beyond.

Key Resources for Online Students

ASU provides a suite of tools to support online learners:

• ASU Library – Offers digital archives, research guides, and home‑delivery of physical materials.
• Success Coaches – Personalized academic and career advising.
• Office Hours – Virtual Zoom sessions with faculty to deepen understanding and build relationships.
• Online Communities – Forums and social media groups for peer support.

Advice from a Dean’s Medalist

Lingua emphasizes the importance of engaging with faculty and taking advantage of available resources:

• Attend virtual office hours regularly to build rapport with instructors.
• Leverage the library’s research tools for thesis and project work.
• Participate in Barrett Honors College programs to broaden academic horizons.
• Use success coaches to align coursework with career goals.

Next Steps for Prospective Students

If you’re considering a humanities degree at Arizona State University, explore the following options:

• Explore ASU Online humanities programs
• Apply to Barrett Honors College
• Submit your application today
• Schedule a free consultation with an admissions advisor
• Download the ASU Online brochure

By combining a strong humanities foundation with the flexibility of ASU Online, you can create a capstone experience that prepares you for a dynamic and impactful career.