Xavier's College of Arts and Sciences offers to men and women the opportunity to receive a liberal education so that they may develop fully as human persons who are committed to the search for truth. Through the attainment of an expansive education, Xavier students will be prepared to become contributing members and leaders in their communities. They will be motivated and prepared to contribute to a more just and humane society through service to God and others.

In each of the college's programs, students are required to take a core of prescribed studies in: arts and humanities; communications; history and the social sciences; mathematics and the natural sciences; as well as theology and philosophy. Each academic program also includes more intensive work in a major field as well as in a minor discipline so that the student may be introduced to scholarly work in at least two areas. This dual exposure will give the student a firm foundation for graduate and professional studies, as well as for the world of work.

Each student must follow one of the approved programs outlined on this site or, in special cases, a program developed under the guidance of his/her faculty advisor and approved by the dean. The latter possibility includes a major at Loyola University in certain specified fields when that major is not offered at Xavier.