The Liberal Studies B.A. Program is designed especially for adults and transfer students who need to complete their degree within a tight timeframe and a flexible schedule. It is possible to earn a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies through either part-time or full-time study and by taking either day or evening classes. Some weekend courses are also offered in the fall and spring semesters.

The program accepts up to 90 transfer credits from accredited colleges and institutions to accelerate the process of achieving a bachelor's degree. To earn a Liberal Studies degree, all students are required to complete a minimum of
15 credits as a Purchase College matriculated student.

Freedom of Choice
You can choose one of four Liberal Studies majors. Each major provides a breadth of learning and understanding in the liberal arts fields. The range of courses offered is what makes the B.A. in Liberal Studies an in-depth, comprehensive program.

Majors in the Liberal Studies Program

1. Liberal Studies
   This interdisciplinary major helps students to develop an appreciation of the questions, issues, and perspectives underlying the liberal arts, to integrate knowledge across disciplines, and to be able to apply academic learning to life pursuits. Coursework is required in a variety of areas and includes a cross-section of the humanities (e.g., history, philosophy, writing), social sciences (e.g., communications, legal studies, sociology), natural sciences (math, science, psychology), and the arts (e.g., art history, studio art, music). The flexibility of the liberal studies degree allows students to choose advanced courses that best suit their needs and interests.
    
2. Liberal Studies: Arts
   This major combines the liberal arts with the visual and performing arts, allowing students to explore their talents and interests in art history, music, film, or other studio arts while studying with accomplished faculty. Within the framework of the Liberal Studies Program, students can choose from a variety of history, production, and studio courses.
    
3. Liberal Studies: Communications and Media Studies
   This major helps students to gain a greater understanding of current politics and social structures through close examination of the centrality of the media in today’s global society. Courses cover historical, sociological, and psychological analyses of media, including film, television, and print, as well as visual and computer technologies.
    
4. Liberal Studies: Legal Studies
   By examining the social, political, and historical processes of law, students learn the ethical functions of the legal system and its implementation in society. Required core and elective coursework examines law through the lenses of sociology and political science, enabling students to appreciate the role of the judicial system within the broader social context.

About Our Faculty
Courses in the Liberal Studies Program are taught by the Purchase College faculty, by other academicians whose specialties complement or supplement those of the full-time faculty, and by practicing professionals.

Liberal Studies Alumni
Becoming part of a group of successful graduates is only one of many advantages of studying at Purchase College. The sense of accomplishment and of personal and professional growth gives rise to a satisfaction each graduate can appreciate. Liberal studies alumni move into such fields as education, advocacy, health, social work, advertising, and customer service. They work for corporations, businesses, civil services, and nonprofits. Many liberal studies graduates also continue their education in a variety of postbaccalaureate programs.

Interested? Let Us Know!
The first step in joining the Liberal Studies Program is letting us know you are interested. (A short form will open in a new window.)

To schedule an advising appointment, call or e-mail the School of Liberal Studies & Continuing Education:

• (914) 251-6500
  
• conted@purchase.edu