See something that isn't right or need to make a change? Let us know here.

Liberal Studies Major

The liberal studies major provides a broad course of study which serves as a foundation for meeting a wide range of future goals including graduate study, career development and community services. Because it is interdisciplinary, it is especially designed for students interested in teaching at the elementary school level. Courses for the major cover the content required for multiple subject teacher credential candidates.

Unique Features

Goals of the major are to build in students:

  • The ability and desire to understand, evaluate and communicate ideas
  • The ability and desire to discover ideas through disciplinary processes
  • The ability and desire to engage in intensive study
  • A sense of interrelatedness among knowledge, experience, responsibilities and values
  • A respect for diversity

Fast Track Program option allows students to become teachers earlier

Our Graduates

A bachelor's degree in liberal studies is versatile and can be applied to almost any desired career field because of its broad course of study. However, most graduates continue on in their education to become elementary school teachers because the liberal studies major provides the course content required for the multiple subject teacher credential.

Program Details

Students must choose an area of concentration. Concentrations permit the candidate to specialize in areas of interest and depth. All students must complete a concentration of 12 or more units in one discipline or area of study. Concentrations may overlap with a minor.

The Fast Track Program allows prepared students to start teaching a full semester ahead of other students.

Are there additional requirements?

  • Students must prepare a portfolio in their last semester prior to graduation.
  • Students planning to enter the FPU teacher education program must maintain a 2.75 GPA or better during their baccalaureate program. Grades of D+ or below are not accepted in general education or major coursework.
  • Students are encouraged to take coursework leading to the BCLAD credential emphasis.
  • The state of California requires that all students admitted to multiple subject credential programs pass the CBEST to prove basic skills and the CSET to prove subject matter competency.
  • Find out more about becoming a teacher.

Timeline

Traditional undergraduate programs are in a semester format. The fall semester begins at the end of August and the spring semester begins at the beginning of January. Application for admission will be accepted until July 31 or enrollment is full for the fall semester and until December 5 for the spring semester. Applications received later than these dates will be considered, but acceptance and registration are not guaranteed. Admission notification is handled on a rolling basis.

Why Fresno

A fast-growing and culturally diverse city, Fresno serves as the business, financial, cultural and entertainment center of California's Central Valley. Because of our central location, students have easy access to the best of the rest of California including three national parks and the central coast. View more advantages to studying in Fresno.

Further Information

How much will it cost?

Tuition is competitively priced and financial aid is available. View details on tuition and fees.

How do I apply?

The application process is straightforward, and an admissions counselor is available to answer any questions you might have. View details on how to apply.

Program Director

View in: Mobile | Desktop