Liberal Arts Major

UMass Lowell's Bachelor in Liberal Arts (BLA) program uses an interdisciplinary approach to learning to equip you to examine complex topics dealing with the environment, poverty, governance, peace and conflict, education and more.

You will select two of concentrations from an approved list that includes ten in the humanities, five in the social sciences, and thirteen that are interdisciplinary in nature. You must take a minimum of six courses in each concentration. (See Approved Concentrations below for a complete list)

You will also choose courses to meet the Interdisciplinary Focus requirement, which ties everything together. Most students take Foundations in Liberal Studies in their sophomore year and either the Capstone in Liberal Studies or an internship course in their senior year. 

• The Foundations course uses a case study approach to teach students how to examine complex topics using interdisciplinary methodologies.
• The Capstone project can be an original research project, creative artwork or community service project. Sample projects include examining the social and political consequences of global warming and exploring the legal responses to genocide in the 20th century.
• Sample courses for BLA Program

All students in the BLA program must also satisfy the College of Fine Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences (FAHSS) language requirement. 

BLA advisers work closely with each student throughout the program leading to the successful completion of the degree.

Visit the Academic Catalog for a complete course listing. Learn about our online Bachelor's in Liberal Arts degree. 

Visit the Academic Catalog for all degree pathways, including those from prior enrollment years.