Liberal Arts Degrees
Southern New Hampshire University describes liberal arts degrees as "foundational," meaning they impart knowledge "across many different subject areas, from art, philosophy, and language to history, science, and math." A liberal arts degree provides so-called soft skills, including critical thinking, communication, collaboration with others, and creative problem-solving skills.Those interested in education may turn to a liberal arts undergraduate degree as a way to start their academic careers before specializing in the advanced degrees. A Liberal Studies degree is available as an associate's, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree program.
Many colleges describe their liberal arts degree programs as the gateway to more specialized degrees, but some programs, including the one offered by the Simmons School of Education and Human Development, are advertised as "Doctor of Liberal Studies" programs for those "who seek intellectual challenge at the doctoral level{" to contribute to their community, workplace "and the world in new and creative ways."
Associate Degree in Liberal Studies
An Associate Degree in Liberal Studies is a great starting point for those interested in advancing their academic opportunities and increasing their earning power in the job market. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employees with an associate degree earn 15% more than their counterparts without a post-secondary education. This equates to approximately $500,000 more earnings over the course of an average American’s lifetimeEarning an Associate Degree in Liberal Studies can increase a student’s earning power in their current job, set one on a successful path for career advancement, and prepare a student for further education and job opportunities.
Jobs with an Associate Degree in Liberal Studies
- Food service manager– Responsible for the daily operation of restaurants or other establishments that prepare and serve food and beverages. Average annual salary: $55,000.
- Property or community association manager– Take care of the many aspects of residential, commercial, or industrial properties. Average annual salary: $59,000.
- Web developer– Work in the computer systems design and related services industry including publishing, management consulting, and advertising. Average annual salary: $74,000.
Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Studies
Students can earn a Bachelor’s in Liberal Studies and choose to focus on a variety of interests that transcends the boundaries of single-discipline degree programs. Some liberal studies programs have preset academic tracks to choose from while others will allow for any and all customizations of study. A stellar liberal studies program will allow students to customize their educational interests and career goals while allowing students to tap into most, if not all, of the university’s academic offerings. Common study themes include:- Medicine, health, and wellness
- Education, teaching, and educational administration
- Social services
- Environmental studies
- Information technology
- Non-profit management
- Media
- Creative and Performing Arts
- Community development
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Jobs with a Bachelor’s in Liberal Studies
- Market research analyst– Study market conditions to examine potential sales of a product or service. Average annual salary: $64,000.
- Multimedia artist– Create images and visual effects for various forms of media and entertainment. Average annual salary: $75,000.
- Administrative services manager– Plan, direct, and coordinate activities that helps an organization run efficiently. Average annual salary: $97,000.
Master’s Degree in Liberal Studies
A Master’s Degree in Liberal Studies is a wonderful academic opportunity for those interested in advancing their knowledge and skills while increasing their earning power and career opportunities.According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employees with a graduate degree earn approximately 40% more than their counterparts with an associate degree. Those with a graduate degree will earn almost twice as much as those without a post-secondary education. This translates to an additional $2 million more in lifetime earnings for an average American.
- Survey researcher – Design and conduct surveys and analyze data. Can work in research firms, polling organizations, nonprofits, corporations, colleges and universities, and government agencies. Average annual salary: $60,000.
- Postsecondary teacher– Instructor for a wide variety of academic and technical subjects beyond high school level classes. Average annual salary: $80,000.
- Postsecondary education administrator– Oversee student services, academics, and faculty research at colleges and universities. Average annual salary: $95,000.
Top Liberal Arts Colleges with Yellow Ribbon-approved Programs
Ready to start your degree in Liberal Studies? Check out these great programs available at our partner schools:Bethune-Cookman University
Offers a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies. Students can choose between a campus-based program or a fully online degree option. Bethune-Cookman is a premier historically black university and participates in the Yellow Ribbon program.
Pomona College
Pomona College is a private liberal arts college in Claremont, California.
St. John’s College
Offers a Bachelor of Arts and a Master’s of Arts in Liberal Arts. St. John’s also offers several combined degree programs, notably a Liberal Arts BA+MA and a Liberal Arts MA+JD. St. John’s partners with the University of Maryland Carey School of Law to allow students to earn an MA+JD within four years. St. John’s College participates in the Yellow Ribbon program.