Course Overview!

The Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies at Cleveland State University provides a broad, multidisciplinary education rooted in the liberal arts. The program emphasizes flexibility, allowing students to shape their coursework while potentially pursuing a minor or second major for enhanced focus. It cultivates essential skills such as writing, quantitative reasoning, research, and critical thinking, preparing students for diverse career paths or advanced studies. The curriculum covers Social and Behavioral Sciences, Natural Sciences and Quantitative Literacy, and Fine Arts and Humanities, culminating in a capstone experience. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of various disciplines and develop strong communication and problem-solving abilities.

Course Structure

The BA in Liberal Studies requires 120 minimum credit hours for degree completion, with 60 credit hours dedicated to the major. The major comprises 36 hours across three distribution areas: Social and Behavioral Sciences (12 hours), Natural Sciences and Quantitative Literacy (12 hours), and Fine Arts and Humanities (12 hours). An additional 24 credit hours are allocated to free electives, chosen from courses offered within the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Public Affairs and Education, and the College of Engineering. With approval, up to 21 credit hours may be transferred from the College of Business or the College of Public Affairs and Education. A capstone course completes the program, chosen from specified colleges and taken within the 60 major credits. General Education requirements cannot overlap with major requirements, with certain exceptions.