"The best solution I can think of is to try and make clear that in a dynamic, global economy, specializing in a narrow skill set may not be the best strategy for success, and more generally, that businesses want people who are intelligent, people who are clear thinkers and communicators, and that, more than anything else, is the key to success. I don’t think it is very well understood that a broad based education is the best preparation for many, if not most careers."
– The Economist’s View
Description
A liberal arts degree program is a multifaceted, interdisciplinary course that equips its students with a broad-based education in the arts. It is an ideal field of interest for students who wish to delve deeper into the liberal arts, pursue interdisciplinary studies, or perhaps propose their own concentrations of study. The Liberal Arts program is generally more flexible than an Arts degree in terms of curriculum design, allowing students to major in more than one field of specialization, or none at all. It offers a wide exposure to hundreds of diverse and complex subjects, ranging from foreign languages to economics.
A two-year associate program is available for those who wish to later proceed to a four-year bachelor’s degree program, as well as masteral and doctorate degrees for further studies that usually culminate in a thesis, or similar capstone project.
Prerequistes
Most schools have differing prerequisites for applicants who wish to enroll in the Liberal Arts degree program. Some institutions may require preparatory courses for the program, though not all majors entail taking a prerequisite. In any case, it may be best to check what is required by different schools, as majority of these can vary.
Areas of study
The appeal of a liberal arts education lies largely in the diversity of subject matter offered. Up to a hundred majors are offered in the program, with English, Government, Psychology, Political Science, and Foreign Languages being the most popular choices among fresh enrollees. Other majors that are no less interesting include American Studies, Classical Mythology, Modern Political Thought, and Western Civilization, however these may vary according to institutions. From artistic majors like Expository Writing and Music History, to more business-oriented majors such as Principles of Macroeconomics, the choices are many and varied. Depending on which majors are offered by the institution, there is an enormous possibility that applicants will find subjects to their likings.
Skills gained
Although one may view the liberal arts program as a course of study for those who are, so to speak, “jacks of all trades”, the immense flexibility of subjects offers an edge to students. For example, it allows individuals to view contemporary social issues from different standpoints and find realistic solutions based on applied theory. Liberal arts entail a great deal of critical thinking, and this is a useful skill in any field of employment.
Possible career paths
A common career path for degree holders in the liberal arts is teaching, and working in the academe can be an appealing profession to most. However, others may also find lucrative careers as lawyers, researchers, historians, or journalists. Graduates in the program may choose to pursue higher education in a field of specialization, and an advanced degree will help boost job opportunities.
Our Featured
Education Partners:
 |
 |
Saint Leo University
Saint Leo University is accredited by the Commission of the Southern
Association of Colleges and Schools to award Associate's and Bachelor's degrees. The
International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE) also
accredits Saint Leo University. |
Saint Leo University is a leading provider of higher education to
working adults and is a major global provider of education to the
military. With over 5,000 matriculated students, The Center for Online
Learning at Saint Leo University is designed to meet the growing needs
of adult students and offers the best attributes of traditional
classroom education in conjunction with today?s most innovative
computer technology.
 Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts
Whether you're just starting down the path to earn a college degree or you have a few credits under your belt, Saint Leo University's Associate's in Liberal Arts may be the right degree program for you. And it's 100% online! So you can keep your job, enhance your effectiveness in your current position and get your degree all at the same time. You'll be exposed to the broadest range of subjects in this flexible liberal arts curriculum with a selection of courses from the natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, the arts, religion and philosophy. You'll be immersed in cornerstone and core liberal arts courses designed to prepare you to continue your education in earning a desired bachelor's degree.
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies
Saint Leo University's Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies provides a broad perspective on human behavior, ideas, and values through a multidisciplinary study of the social and natural sciences, the humanities/fine arts, and business. This integrated approach allows students to make connections across fields of study, deepening their abilities for critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity while preparing them for effective participation in a global community. Students enrolled in the 36 hour major will take a common core of courses in quantitative reasoning, literature, humanities/fine arts, social science, natural science, and business.
|
 |
Ivy Bridge College
Ivy Bridge College of Tiffin University is regionally accredited by the
North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
|
Ivy Bridge College is part of Tiffin University, an independent,
coeducational institution that has been educating students since 1888.
Tiffin is recognized nationally for its accredited on campus and online
courses. We understand that students need support not only as they transition
from high school to college, but also throughout their Ivy Bridge
College experience. That's why all of our students have their own
"success coaches.
Associate of Arts in General Studies
The focus of the Ivy Bridge College's Associate of Arts Degree in General Studies is to produce graduates who will continue their education at a four-year institution. The course offerings were designed to maximize the transferability of academic credits which will be used to meet general education and elective requirements at colleges and universities throughout the country and around the world.
|
 |
St. John's University
St. John's University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on
Higher Education. |
Whether you are a traditional college age student, a working
professional, or a returning adult student, our web-based courses offer
flexibility combined with a special interactive educational experience.
Our online courses are small, interactive and 70 percent are taught by
our own faculty.
Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts
The Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts degree at St. John's University is designed for the undecided major or the adult learner who seeks to build a foundation of liberal arts skills, as well as for those students who are committed to completing a bachelor's degree. Undergraduate admission is based on many factors, including previous academic performance, satisfactory achievement on standardized tests, personal recommendations, and other indications of an applicant's interests, motivation, and potential.
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts
The Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies at St. John's University is designed to provide an excellent, multidisciplinary education. Its flexible approach is geared especially to working adults pursuing a college degree while working full-time. Instead of choosing the traditional single academic major area of study, the Liberal Studies major studies a variety of areas centered on the humanities, the social sciences, science and mathematics and a minor area, including one of the many career areas offered such as administrative studies, business, computer science, criminal justice, health services, journalism, or paralegal studies. Undergraduate admission is based on many factors, including previous academic performance, satisfactory achievement on standardized tests, personal recommendations, and other indications of an applicant's interests, motivation, and potential.
|
 |
Columbia Southern University
Columbia Southern University (CSU) is an accredited member of the Distance Education and Training Council. The Accrediting Commission of the Distance Education and Training Council is listed by the United States Department of Education as a
nationally-recognized accrediting agency, and is a recognized member of
the Council of Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). |
At CSU, we offer completely online degreeprograms, open enrollment, affordable tuition rates, and a flexible
learning style designed to accommodate your life. Choose from
associate, bachelor, master, doctoral or certificate programs in a
variety of fields including business administration, fire science,
criminal justice administration, occupational safety and health, and
more.
Associate of Arts Degree in General Education
At CSU, the premier online university, our programs are designed for busy professionals. Our online accredited degrees are designed to be completed in the comfort of your home or office at times that are convenient to you. The Associate of Arts in General Education Degree provides students with general studies that help you become capable of the versatility demanded in today's workforce. This program ensures students acquire the breadth of knowledge they need to master multiple modes of inquiry, effectively analyze and communicate information, and ethically participate in local, national, and international business practices. Graduates will successfully complete 61 credit hours.
|
 |
Strayer University
Strayer University is regionally accredited by Middle States Commission
on Higher Education. The Commission on Higher Education is an institutional
accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and
the Commission on Recognition of Postsecondary Accreditation. |
Strayer University offers students a quality education that's
affordable, convenient, and supportive. Our flexible academic programs
make it possible for you to earn a competitive MBA or your associate's,
bachelor's, or master's degree on your schedule, without interrupting
your personal or professional life. Established in 1892, Strayer University was designed to meet the
educational needs of working adult students. To do this, we offer
flexible class formats that allow you to balance a college education
with your other responsibilities. Our programs include accounting,
business, criminal justice, information systems, management, public
administration, health services administration, and education.
Associate in Arts in General Studies
The liberal arts or general studies program allows students to explore virtually all areas of the curriculum. It is for the student who may be uncertain about choosing a major area of study. The student has the most flexibility in selecting courses within this program and, by planning carefully and consulting with an academic advisor, may tailor his/her studies at the University to meet individual interests and transfer credits toward more advanced work. *In Ohio, this program is called the Associate of Applied Business in General Studies.
|
 |
Argosy University Online
Argosy University is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning
Commission and a member of the North Central Association. |
At Argosy University, we offer flexible online programs in business,
education and psychology. Argosy University has established campuses
around the country and supports one of the largest graduate student
communities in the nation. As a student in one of our online programs,
you will enjoy a collegial, supportive academic environment.
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Liberal Arts program at Argosy University offers an integrative approach to learning which aims to develop competencies in the basic academic areas and disciplines in higher education. It incorporates courses that are designed to develop the individual, prepare them for the workplace, and to participate constructively in a global society.
The BA in Liberal Arts is a degree program alternative which may appeal to those with previous transferable college credit seeking to complete and earn their bachelor's degree as well as those seeking a broader focused bachelor's degree program.
The BA in Liberal Arts gives students the opportunity to integrate real-world experience with the critical acquisition of a variety of knowledge and skills that not only encourage sensitivity to the diversity of cultures, but can also create a desire to achieve personal and professional excellence.
|
 |
Boston University
Boston University is regionally accredited by the New England
Association of Schools and Colleges. The Physical Therapy program is accredited
by The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education. |
Boston University, founded in 1839, the fourth largest independent
university in the United States, is a hub of academic and scientific
activity. With more than 3,800 faculty members and more than 31,000
students, it is one of the nation's leading research-based universities. You will gain access to our outstanding faculty who bring the latest
research directly to their students. The name Boston University sparks
recognition worldwide and our graduates are prominent in every field of
endeavor.
Bachelor of Liberal Studies in Interdisciplinary Studies (Degree Completion)
Boston University is the only university to offer an online Bachelor Completion Degree in Liberal Studies (BLS). Our program gives students who are prepared to complete a high-quality bachelor's degree can do so alongside other accomplished, motivated, mature students. You will develop a thorough understanding of the arts and humanities, the social sciences, and fundamentals of science?disciplines that are highly valued in today's business climate, where success often depends on interpersonal awareness, critical thinking skills, and human factors. Designed for individuals who have busy schedules and professional commitments, the BLS program can be completed in as little as 30 months by taking 52 to 64 undergraduate credits. Boston University is fully accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc., one of six nationally recognized accrediting agencies.
|
 |
Chapman University College Online
Chapman University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges,
which is one of six regional accrediting associations that accredit
public and private colleges and universities in the United States. |
Chapman University, founded in 1861, is one of the oldest, most prestigious private universities in California. Named to the list of top universities in the nation by U.S. News & World Report and the Princeton Review,
Chapman University enrolls more than 6,000 undergraduate, graduate and
law students. The university's mission is to provide personalized
education of distinction that leads to inquiring, ethical and
productive lives as global citizens.
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies - Culture and Media Studies
The Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies with Culture and Media Studies emphasis is the major of choice for the individual seeking a broad understanding of the ways human knowledge is constructed and demonstrated. Designed to encourage multidisciplinary exploration, this emphasis offers students the opportunity of taking course work in language and media arts, other fine arts and cultural and historical studies. As a liberal studies student, you will encounter new horizons of learning leading to a lifetime of sharing with young minds. Students with a degree in culture and media studies go on to careers in law, film school and international relations.
|
 |
Tiffin University
iffin University is regionally accredited by NCA-HLC, the Commission on
Institutions of Higher Education of the North Central Association of
Colleges and Schools. Additionally, the Master of Business
Administration program is accredited by the ACBSP (American Collegiate
Business Schools and Programs), and is authorized by the Ohio Board of
Regents. |
In choosing an online program, you must judge the personality and
reputation of the institution, how the program fits your unique needs,
and the quality and convenience of the program. Founded in 1888, Tiffin
University has successfully educated students for productive and
satisfying lives of leadership, excellence, and service. Generations of
Tiffin graduates have made positive contributions to their families,
communities, and professions.
Bachelor of Arts in Professional Studies Degree Completion
Tiffin University's Bachelor of Arts in Professional Studies is a flexible degree design for those students who have earned an associate degree in a technical/professional discipline. This is a career oriented degree program built upon the concept of the "inverted degree" which permits the students to complete the degree based on the approved technical occupational major that the student possesses. To complete the Bachelor of Arts in Professional Studies degree, the student must finish all 54 hours of the program for Tiffin University graduation requirements.
|
 |
Ashford University
Ashford University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. |
Your job doesn't have to get in the way of your degree. Ashford
University Online wants to show you how. Founded in 1918, Ashford
University is an ideal choice for working adults and those with
uncompleted degrees. This online college is dedicated to providing
quality learning opportunities for all students, with programs that are
affordable, accessible, and innovative.
BA/Health Care Studies - Liberal Studies
Earn your Bachelor of Arts in Health Care Studies degree and demonstrate your knowledge and skills to provide quality service in the health care industry. Personalize your Bachelor of Arts in Health Care Studies degree when you pair it with a transfer concentration. You can transfer up to 12 approved credits of Liberal Studies coursework to qualify as your concentration in the Health Care Studies degree program. Your understanding and appreciation of mankind's cultural heritage developed by examining areas such as literature, philosophy, music, architecture, etc. will combine easily with your studies of the US health care system, as well as medical ethics and law culminating in a well-rounded degree.
BA/Organizational Management - Liberal Studies
The Organizational Management program examines the human side of managing organizations, allowing for skill development in communication, group behavior, decision-making, human resource management, and ethics. One of the best things about Ashford University's Organizational Management program is the ability to customize your degree to fit your professional and educational goals. Students with a background and/or interest in Liberal Studies can transfer up to 12 credits of Liberal Studies coursework into their Liberal Studies concentration resulting in a dynamic degree comprised of complementing areas.
Students with a concentration in Liberal Studies will have an understanding and appreciation of mankind's cultural heritage by examining areas such as literature, philosophy, music, architecture, etc. These students will combine their Liberal Studies education with organizational skill development in communications, group behavior, decision making, human resource management and ethics, culminating in a well-rounded degree. In addition, Ashford University's transfer policy will allow you to transfer in your Liberal Studies credits no matter when you took them.
|
 |
UMassOnline
The University of Massachusetts is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, which accredits schools in the six New England states. |
Earn your accredited online degree or certificate from one of the
nation's top-ranked universities, the University of Massachusetts.
UMassOnline allows you to attend the same high-quality programs and
learn from the same world-class faculty as students at the University
of Massachusetts' Amherst, Boston, Dartmouth, Lowell or Worcester
campuses.
Bachelor of Liberal Arts
This online liberal arts degree program is designed to provide you with a balanced liberal arts curriculum, while also exposing you to an in-depth study of three areas of concentration: Psychology, History, or Sociology. By providing you with a strong foundation in these three areas, this online Bachelor's degree helps prepare you for situations that require a deeper understanding of the psychological, historical, and sociological issues affecting our society today. In addition to core courses in one area of concentration, the online Bachelor of Liberal Arts degree consists of electives and liberal arts courses online in knowledge areas such as: college writing, literature, historical studies, aesthetics, behavioral and social sciences, mathematics, and science.
Bachelor of Arts with Arts Administration Individualized Concentrations
Are you a community arts leader, artist, volunteer board member, civic leader, or someone interested in the practical aspects of arts management and want to complete your degree? Or, are you considering pursuing a career related to the field of arts management? Through UMass Online's Bachelor of Arts with Arts Administration Individualized Concentrations program, you'll have access to arts management colleagues from around the world and will meet many others who are working at and volunteering in a wide array of arts and cultural organizations. In Arts Administration Individualized Concentrations courses you can gain credit for life and professional experience and you'll have a chance to apply your knowledge immediately to a case study organization--ideally, your own nonprofit. Potential areas of concentration include Arts Programming, Board Development, Strategic Planning, Arts Marketing, Fundraising, Program Evaluation, Financial Management?and Arts Education.
Bachelor of Arts with Individualized Concentrations
Move toward completing your bachelor's degree by combining stimulating courses, a generous transfer credit policy, and the opportunity to earn credit for learning you've gained in your life, work, and training experiences. UMass Online's Bachelor of Arts with Individualized Concentrations allows you to work closely with our faculty to develop an individualized degree program. Designing your own degree allows you the freedom to connect a variety of experiences into an individualized concentration of study. Our students have a wide variety of backgrounds and interests so your degree reflects a range of creativity and interdisciplinary connections from arts management; business and organizational studies; early care and education (non-licensed); health and human services; to journalism studies -? or your own idea - meaning your concentration can be broad or very specific.
|
 |
Oregon State University
OSU is regionally accredited by NWCCU, the Northwest Commission on
Colleges and Universities. |
Oregon State University Extended Campus offers a contemporary way for
students of all ages to begin and complete their degree, even without
stepping a foot on campus. Through the aid of technology, OSU Extended
Campus offers over 15 accredited undergraduate and graduate degrees,
allowing students to complete their degrees through online courses
designed to mirror the caliber of scholarship that OSU maintains.
B.A./B.S. Liberal Studies
Interested in a flexible education with a world of possibilities? This unique online B.A./B.S. in Liberal Studies degree by Oregon State University allows students to mix and match courses and design their own major organized around a theme that mirrors their interests and educational goals. This interdisciplinary approach provides greater breadth and flexibility than is available in other major programs. It promises a broad, well-rounded education that develops effective communication skills and the ability to think critically and analytically, all of which are in-demand traits in today's job market. With this degree, you will be well-prepared for a variety of employment opportunities or for further study at the graduate level. The Liberal Studies degree also allows preparation for a career in elementary education. OSU Extended Campus additionally offers 10 online minors to complement your degree, to help hone your skills in a particular field and can enhance your marketability after graduation. Students will complete a total of at least 180 credits.
|
 |
Hodges University
Hodges University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. |
Since its founding in 1990, Hodges University has emerged as one of Florida?s leading institutions of higher learning. Though serving students of all ages, Hodges University has garnered
recognition for developing a curriculum that is uniquely catered for
adults who balance their academics, while maintaining full-time jobs
and family responsibilities. The caring faculty has real-world
experience in their areas of expertise, so you will gain practical
knowledge from each of your instructors and be able to put it to use
immediately. They have all 'been there' and 'done that'.
Master of Professional Studies
The Hodge's Master of Professional Studies (MPS) degree is designed to provide an advanced level of understanding in professional areas of study for those students seeking a broad interdisciplinary approach to knowledge. Graduates of the program will be prepared for advanced positions in organizations that focus on a global environment and the ability to analyze issues through multiple lenses. Students in the program will be able to solve complex social, economic and political problems by learning how to think expansively, apply knowledge and integrate various resources. The program is designed to be delivered 100% online and completed in 4 or 5 trimesters. Four of the ten courses make up the Professional Studies Core and the remaining six courses are in the Psychology Track. The convenient schedule, delivery format and applicability to the workplace is most attractive to full-time working professionals who are interested in graduate education without interruption to their careers. This degree consists of 30 credit hours (10 courses).
|
 |
Duquesne University
Duquesne University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. |
Duquesne University, founded in 1878, is recognized as one of the top ten Catholic universities in the U.S. U.S. News & World Report's 2009 list of America's Best colleges recently ranked Duquesne University in the top tier of more than 1400 colleges surveyed. Duquesne
University is ranked in the top 20 small research universities in a new
index that is designed to gauge faculty productivity in doctoral
programs in the United States.
Master of Arts in Leadership and Liberal Studies
The Master of Arts in Leadership and Liberal Studies emphasizes the importance of integrity and social responsibility in leaders. This approach to leadership education focuses on the dimensions of human behavior and human nature as illuminated by some of the great thinkers of the past and present. The MLLS program consists of 36 credit hours, which emphasizes the self-assessment and development of skills that are crucial to the leader's role, as well as an examination of the world in which today's leaders will function. This program reflects the mission of Duquesne University to teach ethical leadership within this increasingly complex world. Courses include The Humanistic Perspective; Social, Political and Economic Issues; Conflict Resolution; and Valuing a Diverse Workforce. Upon completion of this degree, you will have developed a vision of leadership, the values to guide your decisions, and the skills and knowledge to translate your vision into reality.
|
|
