Liberal arts is a discipline which provides students with a broad range of knowledge, which enables them to think rationally and enhance their intellectual capabilities. Hence there is no emphasis on one specialized area in a liberal arts curriculum. The areas of study covered usually include language, philosophy, history, literature, mathematics, and science.
Students usually have two options while pursuing liberal arts degrees. They may pursue a degree which is a mix between liberal arts and specialized study, or one which focuses on liberal arts exclusively. Many institutes offer associate, bachelor, master, and doctoral programs in liberal arts. Also, these days many liberal arts degrees are offered online. These programs may suit studens whose busy schedules demand self-paced learning. They are also usually less expensive than traditional campus-based programs.
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in liberal arts program combines course work in communications, political science, philosophy, economics, sociology, and humanities in order to provide a wide range of knowledge in liberal arts. It teaches effective communication, analytical thinking, and problem solving skills. Hence it prepares candidates for opportunities in a variety of industries.
Curriculum
In addition to foundation courses, students may be required to complete a minor in addition to their major for completion of the program. They may choose a minor from a number of options such as economics, sociology, anthropology, media studies, political science, and administration, which may allow them to alter their degree according to personal interests and career goals.
The curriculum is composed of major and minor requirements. Major requirements may be divided into advanced writing, upper division electives, and arts and humanities. Advanced writing may include professional and technical communication and research methods. Upper division electives may include the following:
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American Fiction
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Intermediate Microeconomics
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Intermediate Macroeconomics
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Economics of Public Finance
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Principles of Econometrics
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Money and Banking
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Business Communication
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Professional and Technical Communication
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Public Relations
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Media Ethics And Issues
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Cultural Geography
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Online Writing and Journalism
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Digital Video Editing
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Web design and Management
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Writing for Specialized Magazines
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History of Rock and Roll
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History of Jazz music
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New communications Technology and Society
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History of Political Thought
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U.S Political parties and Elections
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U.S Environment Politics and Policy
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Social Stratification
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International Security
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Evaluation of Contemporary Film
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Political Communication
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Comparative Majority-Minority Relations
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Virtual Workplace Communication
Arts and Humanities courses may include the following:
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Principles of Macroeconomics
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Principles of Microeconomics
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Music Appreciation
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Introduction to Geography
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Gender in the Economy
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America Government and Politics
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State and Local Government and Politics
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Moral and Social Problems
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General Sociology
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Comparative Government and Politics
The above mentioned curriculum is typical for many liberal arts programs. The exact course curriculum and titles will vary for each school.
Career Opportunities
Graduates in liberal arts may apply their education in a variety of fields such as public policy, mass media, city planning, business, law, journalism, sales and marketing, communications, education, museum work, and entertainment.