Liberal Studies, BA

Program Description:

The Liberal Studies major is a flexible interdisciplinary degree that draws on courses from all of the departments and programs in the College of Liberal Arts. It allows students to design a program of study that is both broad in scope and narrow in concentration. It is, therefore, ideal for students whose interests encompass more than one liberal arts field and who desire greater flexibility in their programs of study. It is particularly well suited for those who, for whatever reason, change their major focus partway through their course of study yet aim to graduate in a timely fashion. Transfer students may also benefit from its flexible interdisciplinary curriculum.

The Liberal Studies major provides a strong foundation in core areas of critical thinking, writing proficiency, and interpersonal communication. The degree also requires one “professional component” course, such as computer science or business, to enhance readiness for the workplace. Armed with such skills, Liberal Studies students are well equipped to adapt to the vicissitudes of constantly changing economic conditions.

Students have the option of completing the program requirements for the major in Liberal Studies in a fully online delivery mode. This online option is more limited in scope than the regular program of study, but it is an option for students who need the flexibility of an online degree.

Major Requirements

Core (12 hours): One course in each of the three Liberal Arts areas of specialization, and an additional course in one area.

• Humanities:  Classics, Communication, English, History, Modern Languages, Philosophy, Religion
• Fine Arts:  Art, Art History, Music, Theatre, Dance, Motion Pictures
• Social Sciences:  Anthropology, Geography, Economics, Political Science, Social Work, Sociology, Urban Studies (History may also count as a Social Science)

Concentration (15 hours): Five upper-division (3000-4000 level) courses from within one of the three Liberal Arts areas of specialization. Two of these courses must be writing intensive. These 15 hours may come from one discipline, and so constitute the equivalent of a minor, or from several disciplines within the area.

Related Requirements

Interdisciplinary Studies (3 hours): One course whose subject matter is taught from an interdisciplinary perspective, including African and African American Studies, International Studies, Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, and other courses as approved by the Liberal Studies program coordinator.

Professional Component (3 hours): One course that enhances workplace readiness or career advancement, including Business, Communication, Computer Science, Education, Public Administration, and other courses as approved by the Liberal Studies program coordinator.

Campus Contact Information:

For additional information:

• Liberal Studies, BA
• Liberal Studies
• College of Liberal Arts