Learn how to approach complex topics such as the environment, poverty, governance, peace and conflict and education. 

The Bachelor of Liberal Arts (BLA) program at UMass Lowell is an exciting interdisciplinary program that offers students the opportunity to design a personalized program from more than two dozen possible concentrations.

Make an appointment online with a BLA advisor

Meet Our Students and Alumni

Laura Cabrera sings jazzy rhythm and blues and original compositions as "Queen Laura" at El Taller, a literary café in Lawrence
Laura Cabrera '18
Bachelor of Liberal Arts

Laura Cabrera's studies in philosophy and psychology have given her great personal insight - and the confidence to pursue a creative career in music, art and dance.

If you're good at it, dedicate time to it and feel inspired, then anything is possible.
Read More About Laura Cabrera 
Sammy Santana poses in front a board describing his project to create an educational nonprofit called “Shared Vision/Vision House” at the UMass Lowell Difference Maker Idea Challenge.
Sammy Santana '24
Liberal Arts

With an unbridled passion for learning, Sammy Santana is pursuing his numerous interests through the BLA program.

The best thing I've experienced at UMass Lowell is finding myself through ... every class I've taken.
Read More About Sammy Santana 
UMass student Sandi DeRuntz stands in front of Difference Maker sign.
Sandi DeRuntz '25
Bachelor of Liberal Arts: Art and Psychology

Sandi DeRuntz invented ZipperBuddy, an aid for people with disabilities, through an interdisciplinary class and DifferenceMaker.

I’ve found my purpose: I want to create accessible devices.
Read More About Sandi DeRuntz 
James Joutras poses with a group of students in Japan
James Wilson Joutras '19
Liberal Arts – Digital Media and Theatre Arts

James Joutras came to UMass Lowell to discover himself. His experiences instilled confidence – and took him to Japan, where he plans to work after graduation.

I discovered I was good at editing – taking a bunch of different elements that don’t necessarily make sense and putting them together in a way that creates a coherent story.
Read More About James Wilson Joutras 
Lana Bashir sits at a colorful desk with a notebook, various equipment and flags.
Lana Bashir '23
Liberal Arts

Lana Bashir fell in love with UMass Lowell when she toured the campus.

I liked the homey feel, and I talked to a couple of different students and they really liked it here.
Read More About Lana Bashir