You will likely spend two-plus years in any given liberal arts degree program, which is why it is important to find a program that suits your individual needs and maintains strict standards for coursework, professors and student support services.
Online
Online liberal arts programs offer students the option to get their degree while staying at home or tending to other responsibilities such as work. These programs are often flexible and are provided through universities known for having high standards.
Harvard Extension School
Cambridge, Massachusetts / Online
Harvard Extension School allows students to earn a degree part-time through a combination of on-campus and online courses. This college’s Master’s Degree in Liberal Arts program gives students the opportunity to focus their studies in one of 19 fields within biological sciences, social sciences and humanities. Harvard University is known for its notable faculty and rich course material, traits that carry over to the online extension programs as well.
The University of Massachusetts Lowell
Lowell, Massachusetts / Online
The University of Massachusetts Lowell offers an undergraduate degree in liberal arts. This degree can be applied to further coursework in a bachelor’s, graduate or professional certificate program, or it can be directly applied in the workforce. The liberal arts degree program is customizable and flexible, and it is a great choice for those seeking further education. This national research institute was ranked #10 for great value in 2013 by Forbes.
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, New Hampshire / Online
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, non-profit higher learning institution. This college is known for providing a great education at an affordable price; its innovative course offerings allow students to save money by finishing their coursework faster. At South New Hampshire University, students can earn an Associate Degree in Liberal Arts, which they can then apply to a bachelor’s, graduate or certificate program in nearly any discipline.
Campus Only
Campus-only liberal arts degree programs offer students the benefit of an in-person education. Benefits include a more personal experience with teachers, access to a variety of student support services and more. The following notable schools offer on-campus liberal arts degrees:
Williams College
Williamstown, Massachusetts
Williams College was ranked #1 by U.S. News and World Report for its liberal arts program. At Williams College, students have a lot of flexibility in their coursework; there are no required courses at this college. However, students must take three courses in each of the following subject areas: arts and humanities, social sciences, and science and mathematics. Instead of earning a minor, Williams College students are able to focus their study in one of several concentrations, comprised of topics that pull from a variety of disciplines.
Amherst College (MA)
Amherst, Massachusetts
Amherst College, ranked #2 by U.S. News and World Report for its liberal arts program, offers 37 Bachelor’s of Arts degrees in arts, sciences, social sciences and humanities. This allows students to create their own major or program of study. With more than 115 student clubs and 60% of students receiving financial aid, Amherst is among the most student-centered colleges in the nation.
Swarthmore College
Swarthmore, Pennsylvania
Swarthmore College was ranked #3 by U.S. News and World Report for its liberal arts program. This private college has a solid foundation in liberal arts and engineering and accepts students regardless of financial need. Swarthmore College offers students support services, clubs, leadership opportunities and the ability to contribute their unique cultural history to campus.