Liberal Arts, BA

Department of Social and Behavorial Sciences

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Program Overview

Liberal Studies, BA

The Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies is a versatile, interdisciplinary program designed for students who seek a broad understanding of the human experience. By integrating Geography, History, Political Science, and the Social Sciences, this major equips students with the critical thinking, research, and communication skills necessary for leadership in a global society.

Major

Description

The Liberal Studies major offers a customizable academic journey that explores the connections between culture, society, and governance. Students dive deep into the forces that shape our world, from physical landscapes to political movements and historical documents.

Why Choose Liberal Studies?

  • Interdisciplinary Breadth: Study a rich curriculum spanning World Civilizations, Human Geography, and American Government.
  • Specialized Concentrations: Tailor your degree with upper-level coursework in Geography, History, or Political Science.
  • Research Focused: Develop advanced analytical skills through a two-part Senior Seminar and social science research methods.
  • Career Versatility: Prepare for diverse fields including public administration, education, law, community organizing, and graduate studies.

Program and Degree

Requirements

To earn the B.A. in Liberal Studies, students must complete 120 credits, including at least 90 credits in Liberal Arts and Sciences content. A minimum GPA of 2.0 and a grade of “C” or better in major courses are required.

1. B.A. Degree Requirements

  • Total Credits: Earn at least 120 credits.
  • Residency: Earn at least 30 credits in Residence at Medgar Evers College.
  • GPA: Earn a minimum overall GPA of 2.0.
  • Liberal Arts and Sciences: Earn at least 90 credits of Liberal Arts and Sciences Content Courses.

2. General Education Requirements (CUNY Common Core & College Option)

These requirements cover the foundation of a liberal arts education.

  • Required Core (12 Credits):
    • English Composition: ENGL 112 and ENGL 150.
    • Mathematics and Quantitative Reasoning: 1 course (e.g., MTH 115, MTH 136, or a STEM variant like MTH 141 (Finite Math), which is required for the BS/Business program).
    • Life and Physical Sciences: 1 course (e.g., BIO 101 or PHS 101).
  • Flexible Core (18 Credits – 6 Courses): Complete one course in each of the five areas, plus an additional Flexible Core course in any area.
    • World Cultures and Global Issues (e.g., ANTH 201).
    • U.S. Experience in its Diversity (e.g., HIST 200).
    • Creative Expressions (e.g., ART 100).
    • Individual and Society (e.g., ECON 212 or ECON 213).
    • Scientific World (e.g., CIS 101).
  • One Flexible Core Course (Any Area)

3. Major Requirements

The major requires a minimum GPA of 2.0.

  • Required Core Courses:
    • Major Core (39 Credits): ANTH 201, ECON 212, GEOG 201 & 202, HIST 101, HIST 208, POL 101 & 200, SSC 205, SSC 403 & 404, ENGL 300-Level

Concentration Areas (12 Credits)

Students select 300 or 400-level courses across the following disciplines:

  • Geography: (e.g., Economic, Regional, or Urban Geography)
  • History: (e.g., Black Civil Rights, African Diaspora, or Women’s History)
  • Political Science: (e.g., United Nations, Foreign Policy, or Rule of Law)

Degree Map

A Degree Map (or Academic Pathway/Plan) is an advising tool that outlines a suggested sequence of courses to complete the B.A. in Liberal Studies degree in a timely and efficient manner, often over four years (eight semesters).

4-Year Degree Map