Arts and Sciences

Liberal Studies

Mountain State University's program in liberal studies allow you the flexibility to design a career-oriented liberal arts degree that reflects you personal and professional goals. The liberal studies curriculum has a number of components for you to develop: concentrations in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, or specific studies related to a concentration in a detailed career plan. You will work closely with an advisor to design and complete a program that leads to a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in a specific concentration.

If you are not quite sure what you want to study, the liberal studies degree programs allow you to explore various subjects to discover your interests. Classes are available for study on the University's Beckley campus.

What can I study in liberal studies at MSU?

The liberal studies program opens many opportunities for you to earn an advanced degree with a specific concentration. Listed below are several examples of some programs that our students have designed:

  • Many students combine criminal justice courses into social sciences degree requirements in preparation for careers in counseling in the criminal justice system.
  • Health promotions are often used as preparation for jobs in pharmaceutical sales.
  • Social and behavioral sciences concentrations are both used in preparation for careers at social service agencies, mental health clinics, and state-run agencies administering social programs.
  • Some liberal studies majors with an interest in English and literature design degrees around graduate school requirements, while others use the degree to refine writing skills for creative writing careers.

What career opportunities can I expect in liberal studies?

At MSU, approximately one-half of our students continue their education in graduate school. The other half enter the workforce after graduation.

MSU's liberal studies program has opened many avenues for students to receive bachelor's degrees in such concentrations as pre-med, history, English and literature, media studies, ecology, information technology, social sciences, humanities and fine arts, natural sciences, health promotion, and communication studies. Of course, other concentrations and specialized courses of study are possible.