Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Liberal Studies
Explore your higher calling in the Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies program at Azusa Pacific University and step into your purpose-filled future.
Why Major in Liberal Studies at APU?
APU’s Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies program offers a rich, interdisciplinary education that prepares you for a meaningful career as an elementary school teacher.
To meet the demands of today’s classrooms, the liberal studies major aligns with California Common Core subject-matter standards, strengthens your academic foundation, and allows you to specialize in English, math, the arts, and other concentrations.
The BA in Liberal Studies fulfills California’s subject-matter requirement for a Preliminary Multiple Subject or Education Specialist Credential. To earn your California teaching credential, you must complete an approved educator preparation program through APU’s integrated credential pathways.
During your time as a liberal studies major, you’ll benefit from
- a comprehensive curriculum that explores pedagogical theory, child development, and core academic subjects;
- focused concentrations that allow you to tailor your preparation to your academic interests;
- a culturally responsive, Christ-centered approach to education that equips you to care for and inspire students from diverse backgrounds; and
- personalized mentorship and support from the School of Education faculty.
Program at a Glance
Our world needs passionate, competent teachers like you. APU’s School of Education empowers individuals to guide young learners with expertise and kindness through a Christ-centered community and a dedication to academic excellence.
Application Deadline
At APU, we have rolling admissions. This means we accept and review applications on a continuous basis.
Program Information
- Program Units: 67-107
Location
- Azusa (Main Campus)
What You”ll Learn
Our BA in Liberal Studies curriculum blends content-area subject matter, education courses, and service-learning experiences, all applied through a Christian worldview.
The core education classes explore the history and expectations of the teaching profession, the cognitive science of learning, children’s literacy, human development, and content-specific topics. You’ll round out your expertise by choosing a concentration from a wide range of options, including art, Spanish, music, and more. Along the way, you’ll participate in at least 50 hours of teacher-oriented field experience to bring education theory to life and build your confidence in the classroom.
Upon graduating from the program, you’ll
- design effective, standards-aligned lessons across math, science, literacy, history, and the arts for TK-8 learners;
- apply the science of learning and child development to support academic growth and whole-child formation;
- create inclusive, culturally responsive classrooms that meet the needs of all learners;
- strengthen communication and literacy expertise, including public speaking, children’s literature, and the structure of the English language; and
- infuse creativity, critical thinking, and faith-informed perspective into elementary education practice.
Get Started
Liberal Studies Program Details
The liberal studies major offers a curriculum that grounds you in the principles of teaching (pedagogy)and launches your journey to becoming an educator in kindergarten through eighth-grade settings. The program structure equips you with strong content knowledge and opportunities to turn theory into practice as you work with students in real schools.
As you lead in diverse classroom environments and connect with learners, you’ll ignite your passion and move toward a thriving career with purpose.
As a liberal studies major, you can select a concentration that strengthens your content knowledge and prepares you for future credential pathways. These focused areas also offer opportunities to complete additional units toward a Supplementary or Subject Matter Authorization, broadening your teaching qualifications.
Our liberal studies concentrations include:
- Art
- English
- Human Development: School Psychology
- Human Development: Special Education
- Mathematics
- Music
- Science
- Social Science
- Spanish
Interested in pursuing an undergraduate degree program that incorporates earning your teaching credential? Azusa Pacific University offers several CTC-approved educator pathway options:
- Liberal Studies, BA, with Integrated Extensive Support Needs or Mild to Moderate Support Needs Education Specialist Credential
- Liberal Studies, BA, with Integrated Multiple Subject Teaching Credential
These bachelor’s degrees allow you to advance seamlessly from foundational coursework into credential preparation so you can transition into leading your own classroom.
We created a straightforward undergraduate admissions process that helps you take the next step toward a purpose-filled education.
The prerequisites and required next steps for applying to APU may vary depending on your student type. For more detailed admissions information, select your enrollment path:
Have questions along the way? Connect with our dedicated admissions representatives to get the support you need.Azusa Pacific University makes a Christ-centered education affordable and accessible. To help you cover the cost of your liberal studies bachelor’s degree, we offer a range of financial aid options, including federal loans, state grants, fellowships, and scholarships.
For more information, contact the Student Services Center at (626) 815-2020.
Scholarships and Grants
Scholarships and grants are considered gift aid, meaning they do not require repayment. These awards may come from federal, state, institutional, or private sources. Scholarships are often merit-based and awarded for academic achievement, leadership, or other demonstrated talents.
While APU does award scholarships, you can also find external scholarship opportunities through websites such as Finaid and Fastweb.
Contact the Student Services Center about scholarships offered through APU departments or local organizations.
Student Employment
Along with gift aid and student loans, you can apply for on-campus student employment opportunities to earn additional income to pay for education-related expenses. As an APU student, you can also find work off campus in the surrounding community.
Military and Veterans Benefits
If you are a veteran, serve in the military, or qualify as a spouse or dependent, you may access financial assistance that helps cover the cost of tuition, housing, and books. As a Yellow Ribbon and Military Friendly School, APU offers the support and flexibility needed to help you complete your liberal studies degree.
Net Price Calculator
We’re here to help you understand the value of the APU experience early in the college search process. Once you’ve explored the financial aid opportunities available, take the next step by estimating your cost to attend. The Net Price Calculator provides a personalized estimate based on the information you share, so you can start planning today!
By the Numbers
Career Outcomes for Liberal Studies Majors
Earning a BA in Liberal Studies prepares you to inspire learners and shape the next generation. With strong pedagogical training and broad subject-matter expertise, you can pursue positions in public and private schools, teaching students from kindergarten through 8th grade.
If you want to teach in California public schools, you must complete a state-approved credential program and secure proper teaching licensure. Alternatively, many private schools in California do not require teachers to possess a valid teaching credential.
Beyond classroom teaching, you can also pursue roles in curriculum development, educational support services, and other areas that influence elementary learning inside and outside traditional school settings.
Jessica Logan ’21 discovered her calling through the liberal studies program and now inspires students to love learning, especially in mathematics. With a heart for teaching, she guides young learners with creativity and care.
Department of Teacher Education Faculty
Our faculty members are steadfast in their commitment to training ethical, responsive, and effective teachers. Throughout your time in the liberal studies major, you’ll receive personalized mentorship and career guidance from experienced professors.
Catherine Hahs Brinkley
Chair and Assistant Professor, Department of Teacher Education; Program Director, Liberal Studies/Undergraduate Education, K-8
Paul Flores
Professor, Department of Teacher Education
Start Your Liberal Arts Journey at APU
Your career in education begins with a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies from Azusa Pacific University. Here, you’ll strengthen your teaching methods and deepen your understanding of theory, building a Christ-centered foundation to help young learners grow.
Develop your God-given talents to help others learn and grow. Apply to Azusa Pacific University today!