The Art of Being Human

We explore the ideas and art that define cultures, and we search for the essence of the human condition across borders and throughout history.

From philosophers like Aristotle and Plato to writers such as Shakespeare and Steinbeck, and geniuses like Beethoven, Leonardo, and Michelangelo, we engage our teaching and research with the human events that shape the world. And our students learn lessons about themselves and about what it means to be human that accompany and enrich their lives beyond NAU. We are the hub for cultural engagement in northern Arizona. We bring students, faculty, artists, speakers and guest entertainers to the stage for events that inspire and enlighten. Join us in exploring these human conditions.

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School of Art An NAU art student is painting on a canvas School of Music An NAU student playing a flute in the outdoors of Flagstaff Theatre Three NAU theatre students are dressed for a play
History An NAU history student is looking at artifacts Philosophy An NAU philosophy teacher is explaining a concept to his students English An NAU professor is pointing at a board while lecturing to his students
Global Languages & Cultures An NAU language professor is lecturing to students about language Comparative Cultural Studies An NAU professor is holding a framed picture and inspecting it closely Martin-Springer Institute

Academic programs

two students have a discussion while sitting at a table with other students in background Undergraduate programs Every one of our undergraduate programs are designed to help you become part of something bigger. Whether it’s a political movement or a stirring melody, a piece of art or a glimpse at a long-ago culture, we will connect your inner strengths to the career you were meant to lead.
three men wearing dark, dingy colored costumes stand next to woman wearing a light blue dress Graduate programs Our graduate programs are designed for those who know their strengths and are ready to go the distance when it comes to pursuing their passions. Take a moment to reach out and let us know how we can connect you to the path that fits your goals.
a professor and student shake hands while other students stand behind Global programs Explore the options available for international education with a number of NAU’s International Global Programs.

News

Riles Gallery: Unexpected Journey

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Opening Reception: 3–5 p.m. January 27. The exhibit runs from January 3–March 13, 2020. Riles Building, 2nd floor. Free. Jessica "J.R." MacKenzie is an Assistant Professor of Practice in the School of Arts Interior Design program.  When she is not guiding her students through the wonderful world of design technology, she is at home creating art.  What started as a mere hobby with coloring books has turned into a journey toward the professional world of colored pencil artwork.  Using rendering techniques…

Spring 2020 Beasley Galleries of January

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Beasley Gallery: Junior Show Reception: 5 p.m. –7 p.m. January 24. January 21- January 31 Exhibit: 10 a.m. –5 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Beasley Gallery. Free. Beasley Gallery: A Glimpse Reception: 5 p.m. –7 p.m. January 24. January 21- January 31 Exhibit: 10 a.m. –5 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Beasley Gallery. Free.

Horizons Concert Series

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Horizons Concert Series Spring 2020 Events Join the School of Music at NAU for these performances: Internationally acclaimed performers expand your musical horizons.  
“Beethoven 250” Sunday, January 26, 2020, 4:00 p.m., Kitt Recital Hall Jeffrey Swann, piano This piano sonata program launches the NAU School of Music’s year-long celebration of Ludwig van Beethoven’s 250th birthday.   “Clara Schumann: For Love of You” Monday, February 17, 2020, 7:30 p.m., Kitt Recital Hall Lara Downes, piano Music…

Theatre Reimagined at NAU 2019-2020 Season Retells Classic Stories

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The Department of Theatre at Northern Arizona University is telling familiar stories with a new spin for its 2019-2020 season. The season’s theme, Retold, Relived and Reimagined, is brought to stage with four main productions. “Each playwright in our new season is telling a familiar tale in a reimagined way,” says Theatre Chair Kathleen M. McGeever, who is reinventing student engagement, too. “We wish to give our students a touring experience, so after the opening on campus…