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Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies

A Liberal Studies major attending one of the many available multidisciplinary courses at AIC.

Program Overview

Develop a broad and diverse perspective through creative problem solving, media literacy, and a holistic understanding of society.

Program Format

On-Campus

Degree Options

  • Four-Year BA Program

Time to Complete

  • Full Time: 4 Years
  • Transfer Pathways: 2 Years

Why Major in Liberal Studies at AIC?

Liberal Studies majors at American International College will create a major that is both individualized and interdisciplinary, broadening their appeal to employers in a variety of careers. A set of core courses ensures media literacy, effective writing skills, and an understanding of historical and sociological perspectives. 

Students will work with a faculty advisor to identify two areas of concentration, allowing for focused exploration of topics aligned with their interests and applicable to their professional growth. The program culminates with the opportunity to complete a professional internship or research experience, demonstrating practical application of acquired knowledge.

What to Expect

  • Chart your own path: Working with a faculty advisor, choose two concentrations to hone your knowledge while building a strong foundation to follow your passions after graduation, wherever they take you.
  • Teaching assistant opportunities: Guide the learning process as a junior or senior, engaging new students in psychology topics.
  • Jump-start your graduate education: Eligible seniors can take one to two graduate-level courses at the undergraduate rate. As you begin a master’s degree at AIC, your motivation will pay off in terms of time and cost savings.

Program Details

AIC’s Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies program prepares you for a broad array of career paths based on your passions and personal aspirations.

Program learning outcomes for this degree are based on Massachusetts State Standards and the respective SPA (Specialty Professional Area) content. At the conclusion of the program, the candidate will be able to: 

  • Students will demonstrate effective writing skills and distinguish between various uses of language.
  • Students will demonstrate critical thinking as a tool for problem solving.
  • Students will develop an awareness of how values and perspectives shift in society.
  • Students will formulate research questions and understand various research methods.

Major Courses: In addition to AIC Plan for Excellence (APEX) requirements, students must complete all courses listed here to receive a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies

  • COM1281: Media Literacy 
  • ENG2213: Public Speaking 
  • SOC2420: Sociology of American Institutions
  • ENG4700: Senior Writing Capstone

Choose one of the following courses:

  • HST3100: Coming to America: Immigration and Ethnicity in American History
  • ENG3200 Topics in Literature

Choose one of the following courses:

  • XXX4899: Any internship course 
  • XXX48XX: Any research experience

Liberal Studies majors must choose two Concentration Areas approved by the Dean of Business, Arts and Sciences.

  • Concentration Area 1: 12 credits of 2000, 3000, 4000 level courses in content area
  • Concentration Area 2: 18 credits of 2000, 3000, 4000 level courses in content area

Please reference the current catalog for all course descriptions.

Individuals interested in studying Liberal Studies at AIC—or exploring related studies in The Education Hive—will apply for admission as a first-year, transfer, or international student.

Review tuition rates and fees for the upcoming academic year.

Undergraduate Tuition and Costs

Scholarships

Grants and scholarships are awarded based on both need and merit.

All Undergraduate Scholarships

AIC’s transfer partnerships with Holyoke Community College (HCC) and Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) provide an uninterrupted path from community college to our bachelor’s in Liberal Studies program, as well as a $4,000 per year joint admissions scholarship.

If you have questions on transferring from one of our partner schools, please contact the admissions office at 413.205.3201.

Encouraging holistic involvement, AIC’s campus culture allows everyone to find their place to build connections and fuel their passions:

  • Presentation opportunities: Held each semester, our Undergraduate Research Symposium lets you share your research findings while getting inspiration from your peers.
  • All student groups: Pursue a hobby or embrace your identity. Browse all student organizations.
  • Leadership development: Through groups, athletics, service, and outreach, Yellow Jackets explore the art of taking charge and how objectives are achieved through motivation, engagement, and vision. Learn more about leadership development.

Have a Question?

Contact our Assistant Dean and Division Chair or email admissions@aic.edu for general college admission requirements.

Frank Borrelli, MFA
Assistant Dean of Student Support and Experiential Learning

Phone: 413.654.1486
Email: frank.borrelli@aic.edu
Hours: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Academic and Career Support

AIC gives you the space to explore your interest while preparing you for life after college. Throughout, you’ll work with advisors and mentors to define your academic and professional goals and the ways to achieve them.

An AIC student talks course selection for the Psychology major with their academic advisor.

Student Success Advising

Saremi Center for Career Development

Accessibility Services and Academic Accommodations (CASAA)

Related Programs

Whatever type of career you want to pursue, AIC’s programs offer real-world experience to set you on your path:

AIC School of Education students working with middle school students at Birchland Park in East Longmeadow

Educational Studies, BS

Sociology, BA

General Business, BSBA

Ready to Take the Next Step?

At AIC, your passions will lead you on the path to professional success:

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