Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies
The B.A. in Liberal Studies is the undergraduate major of choice for the individual desiring to teach in an elementary classroom or for those students seeking a broad liberal studies education. The program has one emphasis, the Multiple Subject Teaching Emphasis which provides the undergraduate preparation needed for entry into post-baccalaureate Multiple Subject Credential Program. The B.A. in Liberal Studies program is administered jointly by the School of Arts & Sciences and the School of Education.
The Multiple Subjects Teaching Emphasis
The Multiple Subject Teaching Emphasis encompasses college instruction in the subjects that are commonly taught in California's elementary schools including courses in English/language arts, natural sciences, mathematics, visual and performing arts, history and social science, human development, physical education and health. Courses are aligned with subject matter requirements for multiple subject credential candidates and the Common Core State Standards. Candidates examine education from a variety of perspectives, explore child development as it relates to learning and teaching, and conduct applied research projects.
Under Assembly Bill (AB) 130, effective July 9, 2021, the B.A. in Liberal Studies program meets the multiple subject competence requirement for the state of California.
Program Mission Statement
The mission of the BA Liberal Studies program is to prepare subject matter experts who are critical curators of information, and are able to integrate theory, research and practice in education. The program empowers reflective practitioners who are passionate, innovative, and committed to teaching all learners in a variety of educational settings.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Educational Perspectives: Analyze the relationships between education, self, society and nature.
- Child Development: Apply theories of social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development to learning and teaching.
- Research: Apply critical research skills to the analysis of complex issues within an educational setting.
- Subject Matter Knowledge: Apply subject matter knowledge in an educational context.
All courses taken in the major program must be passed with a letter grade of "C" or higher. Courses may be used to fulfill both major and general education requirements.
The Multiple Subjects Teaching Emphasis Program Requirements
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Education Foundations | ||
| LBSU 250 | Education and Society in the 21st Century | 3 |
| EDUU 451 | Educational Application of Computers: Level I | 3 |
| LBSU 403 | Liberal Studies Multiple Subjects Capstone | 3 |
| Education Foundations Subtotal | 9 | |
| Subject Matter Courses | ||
| English/Language Arts: | ||
| ENGU 420 | Language Development and Acquisition | 3 |
| ENGU 450 | Literature of Children and Young Adults | 3 |
| Natural Sciences: | ||
| NSCU 302 | Life Science | 3 |
| NSCU 304 | Earth and Physical Science | 3 |
| Mathematics: | ||
| MATU 206 | Mathematics for Elementary School Teachers I | 3 |
| MATU 207 | Mathematics for Elementary School Teachers II | 3 |
| Visual & Performing Arts: | ||
| ARTU 450 | Creativity and the Visual Arts | 3 |
| LBSU 310 | Music, Movement and Drama: The Human Expression | 3 |
| History and Social Science: | ||
| HISU 358 | United States History and Democracy | 3 |
| HISU 360 | World History and Geography | 3 |
| HISU 372 | California History | 3 |
| Child Development/Health and PE: | ||
| PSYU 323 | Child Development | 3 |
| LBSU 350 | Teaching and Learning | 3 |
| LBSU 413 | Student Health and Safety | 2 |
| LBSU 414 | Physical Education for Elementary Teachers | 1 |
| Subject Matter Courses Subtotal | 42 | |
| Total Credits | 51 | |