What is a Liberal Arts College?
If you’re not sure what people mean when they call a place a liberal arts college, you’re not alone. A recent AT & T Foundation survey claims that only 14% of high school students (and only 27 % of their parents) have a good idea of what’s meant by a liberal arts education. So read on and join the 14%–you can amaze your high school friends with your knowledge! A liberal arts education is based on an ancient curriculum that’s been updated and broadened for modern life. Its main idea is to encourage you to become an “educated person,” someone who studies several academic fields before narrowing the field to a deeper study of one or more areas (your “major”). It sees college as the place to develop your thinking skills so that your focus on your major is grounded in a broad understanding of all fields of study. A liberal arts education emphasizes extensive experience in reading with understanding, writing well, and expressing yourself through public speech; so regardless of your major, y
A liberal arts college is a four-year higher-learning institution, usually found in the United States. These colleges emphasize a broad undergraduate education. This means that students often take a number of classes which may not directly relate to the student’s career goals. By taking a wide variety of classes, students at liberal arts colleges aim to receive a well-rounded education. While there are professional training programs available at some of these colleges, specialized programs are usually not emphasized.
A Liberal Arts College is a school where you study a specific field and a wide range of disciplines. You will receive a well rounded education in the arts, humanities and sciences in addition to your specific field of study. A liberal arts education also enhances students’ knowledge of the world they live in and develops a deeper appreciation of all perspectives.
At Liberal Art colleges students study humanities, arts, literature, language, and natural and physical sciences. Most U.S. universities and colleges offer ample liberal arts programs, but Liberal Arts colleges only offer these programs. Many students choose Liberal Arts colleges to obtain a more general and well-rounded education before going on to graduate school where they will concentrate on one particular area. RETURN TO THE TOP OF THIS PAGE Where to go for more help In most countries of the world, the U.S. and Canadian governments employ educational advisers who are trained and happy to help you with questions about your plans to study in North America. These advisers are generally at the embassy or consulate. However, the Institute for International Education (IIE) and the Fulbright Centers also offer counseling services for foreign students. In the United States, the International Education Service (IES) located in Los Angeles (Santa Monica), California will assist you with any
A liberal arts college is simply one that focuses on a range of academic disciplines of general cultural concern. This may include subject areas such as languages, mathematics, business, history, science and literature. There is also a focus on rational thought and enrichment. The courses of study are in direct contrast to a college that focuses on fine arts, such as painting, music and other pursuits. A liberal arts college may offer such pursuits, but its focus will be broader than just those things. Most of the colleges, at least in many parts of the world, are considered liberal arts colleges. These institutions are common simply because they appeal to the widest range of interests. Therefore, many students will consider a liberal arts college their first choice when looking at higher education. The goal of a liberal arts college, along with most other major institutions of higher learning, is to personally enrich those students attending. Another goal, which is still a major one,
