Well, I'm going to have a BA in Liberal Studies and I am curious how it is viewed for employment and further academic study. I always had the impression the Lib. Studies majors were for "school teachers." (I think I remember my father telling me that when I was a child!) I realize that it depends on what employment one is seeking and what graduate programs one wants to embark on, but any general observations would be appreciated. Personally, I went into this degree with the knowledge that I would be earning a second BA/BS soon thereafter. The BA Lib. Studies, for me, was mostly a way to show that I have a breadth of knowledge. My second degree will be of more direct utility for me due to its specificity. Any observations, comments, experiences?
Hi, I don't know if liberal studies is synonymous with general studies but I graduated undergraduate school with a B.S. in General Studies with a major in social science/languages. This degree was good enough to enter a master's program at August College (now Augusta State University) and into the M.Div. program at Earlham School of Religion, both accredited by USDoE recognized accrediting agencies. Of course this was nearly 30 years' ago and I know things have changed dramatically so this post may be of little use to you. Only giving my personal experiences in a similar situation.
Your father was mostly correct. The most common use for a bachelor's degree in Liberal Studies is to become an elementary school teacher. Because elementary teachers must teach all the subjects (math, science, language arts, social studies, p.e., etc.), it has been important that they have a broad base of knowledge. As for easy, your mileage will vary. What is easy for one person may not be easy for another. Likewise, there will be a wide variation in difficult between schools. Some require higher level math and science and others do not. Tom Nixon
My BA is in Liberal Studies. I had thought about going into teaching, but changed my mind after graduation. In fact, I didn't continue with school until now (15 years later). My advice is, don't stop with this BA. Besides K-12 teaching, there's not much else you can do with it.
Easy? Nonsense... The liberal arts were once considered authentic "education", while business schools were "training". How the times have changed. In a perfect world an education would mean you are a well-rounded, disciplined learner who is ready for more challenges. Unfortunately too many HR directors feel a degree in a certain field means you need less training. Hogwash. What we need is more inter and multidisciplinary curriculum in college, not more specialized training. In my opinion college is much more about learning how to think clearly and communicate... Donald Regan went to an Ivy League school, studied English Lit, went to war, and then got hired by a Wall Street Firm. He ended up as Secretary of the Treasury then White House Chief of Staff. Unfortunately, the market is not calling for more liberal arts grads... hence very few DL grad programs in the liberal arts.
I earned a BA in Liberal Studies from TESC in May 2002. Like you, initially I was curious about the value of my degree. However, believe the degree will prove to be a real door opener when it comes to employment. At least I can get a foot in the door for jobs that simply specify "applicant must have an accredited bachelor's degree" period. Before earning my BA, I really didn't have a shot at those jobs. Without it, I would essentially be "a high school grad with work experience". Even if my major was astronomy, I could still at least apply for those jobs. 4Q out
The electives in my USNY BSLS were all engineering and business courses. I then went on to earn two technical master degrees. I never had any school or employer question my academic credentials.
