Why such a strong focus on liberal arts?

At the core of liberal arts is "science", which comes from the Latin word scio, (I know). Before we demarcate existing academic disciplines between the arts and sciences, it is important to go back to the original meaning of "science." The term embodies the intent to discover and understand. It also expresses our eagerness to learn and create, which motivates us to grasp humanity and the world based on theory and evidence. At the same time, we need the arts, including art itself, technology and academic knowledge that transform the as yet unrecognized and unnarrated into perceivable form. The name "ICU College of Liberal Arts, Department of Arts and Sciences" epitomizes our determination to pursue this undertaking.

In the 21st century that seems threatened by increasing division and conflict, we must share what is necessary to make the best of our lives through sturdy mutual connections in finding a way to live together.To achieve this goal, we must each become independent individuals, develop a well-grounded specialty, be able to see things from a comprehensive perspective, establish an intellectual or human network and cultivate the ability to act as leaders in solving problems.

ICU emphasizes liberal arts because this higher education model opts for a curricular structure that develops these capabilities.