Liberal Arts, BA
Department of Social and Behavorial Sciences
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.
HEGIS Code: 4901.00
NYSED Program Code: 27380 – LIBST-BA
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 Students dive deep into the forces that shape our world, from physical landscapes to political movements and historical documents.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.
Student
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate critical skills for thinking, questioning, assimilating, and formulating well-reasoned opinions.
- Articulate and analyze efficiently, through written and oral arguments and positions relevant to Liberal Arts disciplines.
- Analyze and evaluate historical and contemporary concepts, issues, and trends within the social sciences.
- Analyze and evaluate the cultural significance of race, gender, ethnicity, nationality, and sexual orientation, in the United States and broader global society.
- Synthesize and apply research methods used in Liberal Arts disciplines.
- Be prepared to enter graduate-level study and/or employment.
- Demonstrate knowledge and skills to effect positive change in their lives, communities, and/or global society.
Major
Requirements
As part of your degree, you must fulfill the CUNY Pathways general education requirements, which consist of the Common Core (Required and Flexible) and the Medgar Evers College Option. These courses provide the essential quantitative, scientific, and socio-cultural literacy that complements your technical training.
Required Core Courses
- Major Core: 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).
Have Questions? We’re Here to Help
If you have questions regarding the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences or need assistance navigating the application process, please reach out to our department office.
Chairperson: David Orenstein | dorenstein@mec.cuny.edu
Phone: 718 270-4863 Fax: 718 270-4828
Location: 1650 Bedford Avenue, B-1032 D