Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other
Total graduates
18,613
2025 · 320 schools
International share
1.6%
302 international students
Bachelor's degrees
2,714
2.0% international
Master's degrees
106
12.3% international
Overview
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities is a versatile and interdisciplinary field of study that encompasses a broad range of subjects aimed at fostering critical thinking, creativity, and effective communication. This program typically integrates various disciplines, including literature, philosophy, history, psychology, sociology, and the natural sciences, allowing students to explore diverse perspectives and ideas.
Students in this field are encouraged to develop analytical skills and a deeper understanding of human experiences and societal structures. The curriculum often emphasizes the importance of ethical reasoning, cultural awareness, and the ability to engage with complex problems. This holistic approach not only enriches students' knowledge but also prepares them for a wide variety of career paths.
Graduates of this program can pursue careers in education, public service, writing, media, social work, and many other fields that value critical thinking and communication skills. Additionally, the foundational knowledge acquired through these studies can serve as a stepping stone for further education in specialized areas, such as law, business, or graduate studies in the humanities and social sciences.
Overall, the Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities program cultivates well-rounded individuals who are equipped to navigate and contribute to a rapidly changing world, making them adaptable and valuable in various professional environments. This flexibility, combined with a broad academic foundation, makes this program an excellent choice for students seeking to develop their intellectual and practical skills.
Graduates by year
AssociateBachelor'sMaster'sDoctoral
From 2002 to 2025, graduates grew 26% and the international share went from 1.7% to 1.6%.
Colleges that award this degree
In 2025, 320 schools awarded this degree as a first major. The table lists those in the 2027 U.S. News National or Liberal Arts rankings, plus the unranked schools with the most graduates.
Purple: international students are 25% or more of the school's graduates.
Graduate counts: IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education, 2002–2025. Rankings: 2027 U.S. News.