Liberal Studies, BA

For students whose interests are too big for any one major, or degree-completion students looking for the best way to finish a bachelor’s degree with earned credits, the Bachelor of Arts program in liberal studies opens up the academic world for exploration.

The liberal studies major offers a course of study that emphasizes the humanities and social sciences and gives students great flexibility in constructing their own educational path. Courses engage students in diverse ideas and perspectives, and students develop habits of mind beneficial in all areas of life. A liberal studies degree prepares students to meet the challenges of a complex world. It offers a path that enables students to prepare for a career or to change careers, to increase self-understanding, and to develop thoughtful engagement with other people and diverse cultures.

Liberal studies are the oldest form of higher education in the Western tradition, with roots going back to ancient Greece. It was realized early on that democracy depends on a population of educated people who can make and follow arguments, who can communicate clearly in a public forum, and who can learn about the important subjects that affect people’s lives.

A liberal education differs from being politically liberal in the modern sense; throughout history, people from all political perspectives have made significant contributions to and drawn from the knowledge and skills that define a liberal education.