Liberal Studies BA
What is Liberal Studies?
Are you curious about the world and how different disciplines connect to shape society? Liberal Studies is an interdisciplinary program that blends humanities and social sciences, giving you a broad, well-rounded education. You’ll explore subjects like history, art, literature, mathematics, and social sciences while developing essential skills in critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving.
At MSU-Northern, you’ll gain insights into the ideas, cultures, and histories that influence our world today. Whether you’re interested in creative fields, public service, or preparing for graduate school, this degree provides the flexibility to pursue your passions while building skills that employers value.
Why Choose the Liberal Studies Program?
MSU-Northern’s Liberal Studies program lets you customize your academic experience by focusing on two areas within the humanities or social sciences. Choose from options like literature and writing, theatre, psychology, graphic design, or criminal justice, developing expertise in your chosen subjects while enjoying a broad liberal arts education.
With small class sizes and faculty mentors who are experts in their fields, you’ll receive personalized guidance throughout your studies. You’ll graduate with strong written and verbal communication skills, cultural awareness, and analytical abilities—all of which are highly valued across industries.
Here are some of the things you'll learn:
- Think critically and analyze issues across multiple disciplines
- Develop expertise in two chosen areas within the humanities or social sciences
- Communicate effectively through strong writing and verbal skills
- Understand cultural, social, and historical influences on society
- Apply problem-solving strategies in professional and academic settings
Liberal Studies students at Northern benefit from a collaborative learning environment, where small classes encourage discussion and engagement. You’ll work closely with faculty who are scholars, published authors, and industry professionals, receiving mentorship and insights tailored to your interests. These strong professional connections help you prepare for real-world applications of your studies, whether in the workforce or in advanced degree programs.
At MSU-Northern, the Liberal Studies program offers both flexibility and depth, allowing you to shape your education to match your goals. Our faculty mentors are actively engaged in their fields, ensuring that you learn through critical inquiry and creative thinking. Whether you’re preparing for graduate studies, law school, public service, or careers in the arts and communication, this program gives you the foundation you need to succeed.
A Liberal Studies degree opens doors to diverse career paths in fields like education, public relations, social services, and communications. With strong analytical and communication skills, graduates are prepared for a variety of professional settings. This degree also provides an excellent foundation for advanced studies in fields like law, international relations, creative writing, and public policy.
| Career | Description | Median Salary* |
|---|---|---|
|
Education Specialist |
Develops and implements educational programs, provides training and support to educators, and works to improve curriculum and teaching strategies. | $64,930 |
| Editor | Reviews, revises, and prepares content for publication in books, newspapers, websites, or other media, ensuring clarity, coherence, and adherence to style guidelines. | $58,000 |
| Public Relations Specialist | Manages and maintains a positive public image for clients or organizations by crafting media releases, coordinating public appearances, and handling communication with the media. | $62,993 |
| Human Resources Manager | Oversees the administrative functions of an organization, including recruitment, employee relations, benefits administration, and compliance with labor laws. | $104,000 |
| Museum Curator | Manages collections of artifacts and works of art, conducts research, organizes exhibitions, and educates the public about a museum's offerings. | $47,000 |
| Paralegal | Assists lawyers by conducting legal research, drafting documents, organizing files, and managing case logistics to support legal proceedings. | $48,000 |
*Please note that the salaries provided here are for illustrative purposes only and are general estimates based on various data sources. Salaries can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and specific employer. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consulting industry-specific reports or professional organizations is recommended.
"The Liberal Studies degree at MSUN did many great things for me. It enhanced my critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and written communication skills. It introduced me to professors and peers who offered invaluable inspiration and wisdom in my creative practice. It instilled the confidence to pursue my MFA in Creative Writing at the University of Montana. But, most importantly, it opened the door to real writing for me."
- Grace Schwenk (Alumni)
"The Liberal Studies program has shaped my mindset and my ability to teach in so many ways, I have gone on to my graduate degree in Clinical Psychology and I plan to graduate in 2027. I recommend the liberal studies degree to individuals who love to question the very being of things in life, for people who look to understand underlying meanings of things and how something like color can be used to control the scene of a movie or live play. My degree has put me in positions where I am able to help young students achieve their goals in academic success. I have played a pivotal role in helping high school students when it comes to tutoring and advancing their leadership skills."
- Zavier Baldwin (Alumni)
"The liberal studies major was a good fit for me because it works in tandem with the graphic design major. I was able to continue taking courses I enjoyed while working on both degrees at the same time. Liberal studies allowed me to take humanities, literary theory classes, and other literature classes without having to spend any more time in college than I would have anyway."
- Tana Gorecki
The Academic Map provides a clear semester-by-semester breakdown of the courses required to complete the program.
Example Courses :
- Intro to the Humanities
- Your choice of courses in Social Sciences, Humanities, Fine Arts, Technology, Math, Sciences, and moren
- Senior Capstone
Our Financial Aid team is here to support you in overcoming financial barriers and unlocking opportunities. Learn about scholarships, grants, loans, work study, and federal aid.
For estimated tuition/fees, residence hall rates and more, see the 2024-2025 Estimated Costs of Attendance document, and for detailed tuition and fee costs including course fees, see the Tuition and Fees page.