About Liberal Studies | California State University Monterey Bay

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What is Liberal Studies?

Liberal Studies (LS) is an interdisciplinary academic program that focuses on providing undergraduates with a broad and well-rounded education, that encompasses various fields of study including the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and the visual and performing arts. Designed especially for aspiring educators, this program offers an opportunity to acquire foundational knowledge, skills, and perspectives necessary for a successful career in education.

LS Degree = Demonstration of Subject Matter Proficiency

In addition to being intentionally designed to prepare aspiring elementary and middle school educators, majoring in Liberal Studies offers a significant advantage because it is structured to include coursework in the content areas required to demonstrate subject matter proficiency. This means that you do not need to take and pass the subject matter exam known as the CSET, thus saving you time and money, while reducing the stress from having to take a standardized exam.

What can I do with a B.A. in Liberal Studies?

The interdisciplinary B.A. program in Liberal Studies (LS) at CSU Monterey Bay provides a solid foundation for various careers, especially K-8 teaching. Moreover, a LS degree can serve as a springboard to a variety of career opportunities, especially if you decide to pursue a graduate degree.

Liberal Studies, B.A.

Liberal Studies, Traditional Pathway, B.A.

Liberal Studies, B.A. + Credential Pathways
- Integrated Bilingual Elementary Education Concentration - LS BA + Elementary Education Credential with Bilingual Authorization
- Integrated Special Education Concentration - LS BA + Special Education Credential
- Integrated Elementary Education Concentration - LS BA + Elementary Education Credential
MLO 1: Developing Educator

Students think, write, and speak critically about the general knowledge, skills, dispositions, and responsibilities of a California public educator in classroom, school, community, State, and National contexts. Students acquire introductory pedagogical skills and apply perspectives of the Educational Foundations to their developing professional practices.

MLO 2: Diversity and Multicultural Scholar

Students evaluate their own and others' experiences as influenced by social identities, socialization practices, and societal institutions from both historical and contemporary perspectives. Students critically examine the value of diversity and multiculturalism. Students inform their educational practices and perspectives by applying concepts and theories of diversity and multiculturalism.

MLO 3: Innovative Technology Practitioner

Students use technologies effectively for investigation, expression, design, and collaboration. Students reflect on the role of technologies for innovative teaching and learning, and effective instruction.

MLO 4: Social Justice Collaborator

Students combine disciplinary knowledge, community experience, and reflective practice to become ethically and socially responsible educators working toward a just and sustainable world. Students identify and pursue paths for social change. Students collaborate with stakeholders to advocate for access, equity, and justice in public education and other societal institutions.

MLO 5: Subject Matter Generalist

Students demonstrate competency in subject area content and complete a coherent depth of study for successful practice in California public education.