What do you learn in a bachelor's in liberal arts?

Liberal arts is an interdisciplinary subject that can prepare you for diverse career paths in a rapidly changing world. During a bachelor's in liberal arts program, you'll learn versatile skills in communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

On this page, we cover the types of liberal arts programs, courses you may take, graduation requirements, and more.

What to expect from a bachelor's in liberal arts program

A bachelor's in liberal arts program can provide you with a well-rounded education across several disciplines. At its core, the program focuses on critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability through an interdisciplinary approach.

Graduates can enter fields like business, education, and communication, or decide to pursue graduate studies. This program typically lasts for four years, and you'll need around 120 credit hours to graduate.

The cost of tuition varies considerably depending on the institution, program, and the length of your course. While you can choose from a variety of classes, such as sociology, philosophy, and communication, many programs require a capstone project or portfolio to integrate your learning across all disciplines.

Bachelor's in liberal arts curriculum

The curriculum for a bachelor's in liberal arts depends on your specific program and school. However, many liberal arts programs explore the social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences in depth. Below are three examples of key courses that you may come across:

• Critical thinking and argumentation. Focusing on these skills can prepare students to analyze and construct logical arguments. This course can also help them develop skills in problem-solving, evidence evaluation, and reasoning.
• Cultural studies. This course explores the connections between culture, society, literature, media, and historical identity, equipping students to understand, appreciate, and navigate different perspectives around the world.
• Ethics introduction. This class explores moral philosophies in ethical decision-making. It also deals with ethical differences in personal, cultural, and professional settings. Expect to strengthen your ability to approach these complex issues responsibly and thoughtfully.

Liberal arts specializations and concentrations

Students can often pursue coursework on certain topics that may align more closely with their specific career aspirations or goals.

For example, a focus on journalism, digital media, or public relations can give students a head start as they seek careers in media strategy or content creation. Students who elect to take more social sciences classes can dive deeper into anthropology, psychology, or sociology, eventually pursuing roles in counseling or research.

Alternatively, students can decide to study the humanities, which emphasize history, literature, and philosophy. This is perfect for a career in education or writing.

Graduation requirements for a bachelor's in liberal arts

If you want to graduate with a degree in liberal arts, you need to complete your school's requirements for core classes and major courses. Like all bachelor's programs, an undergraduate program in liberal arts typically consists of 120 credits.

Many liberal arts programs also require you to complete a capstone project. This involves synthesizing your knowledge through a research paper or portfolio that showcases your interdisciplinary learning. Many programs recommend or require an internship, as well, so you can gain hands-on experience in areas such as education, public service, or marketing.