COURSE CURRICULUM

The Liberal Studies major is a comprehensive and interdisciplinary program designed to prepare students for a broad range of careers, with a strong emphasis on teaching and education. The program integrates knowledge from multiple academic areas, including reading, language and literature, mathematics, natural sciences, social sciences, visual and performing arts, human development, health, and physical education. The curriculum is structured to provide students with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, ensuring that graduates develop the skills necessary to succeed as educators or in other professional roles. Core courses in reading and writing emphasize communication skills, critical thinking, and literacy development, while courses in mathematics and science foster analytical reasoning and problem-solving abilities. Social science and humanities courses help students understand historical, cultural, and societal contexts, enhancing their ability to engage with diverse communities.In addition to the core curriculum, students select an area of emphasis, such as art, bilingual studies, human development, literature, mathematics, multicultural studies, music, natural science, physical education, theatre, United States history, or world history. These areas allow students to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals while deepening their knowledge in a specific discipline. The program also includes field experience courses, offering practical exposure to classroom environments, tutoring, and after-school programs, which provide hands-on opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. These experiences help develop professional competencies and prepare students for the California teaching credential.The program is approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, which means students who complete the major are waived from taking the California Subject Matter Examination (CSET). Beyond careers in education, the major equips graduates with skills applicable to fields such as government, public administration, business, community service, counseling, law, librarianship, and public health. Through its interdisciplinary curriculum, emphasis on practical experience, and flexible areas of specialization, the Liberal Studies major cultivates well-rounded, knowledgeable, and adaptable individuals prepared to contribute meaningfully in educational and professional settings.