CUNY(The City University of New York)

What you'll study

This programme provides a broad curriculum across humanities, social sciences, natural sciences and quantitative reasoning. Core coursework typically includes academic writing and composition, critical thinking, introductory philosophy or ethics, history or cultural studies, and an introduction to social science methods. Students then choose elective clusters or a concentration within the humanities or general studies — for example literature, history, languages, religious studies, media and cultural studies, or interdisciplinary fields.

The degree emphasises skills-based learning: research methods, argumentation, information literacy and oral communication. Many students take modules in statistics or data literacy to complement qualitative training. Programmes are often structured around a combination of general education requirements, major-specific electives and free electives, culminating in a capstone project, senior seminar or portfolio that demonstrates integrated learning across disciplines.

Because CUNY is a multi-college system, students can often take advantage of cross-campus course offerings, electives in professional schools, internships with cultural and civic organisations across New York City, and advising that supports personalised pathways including teacher preparation or pre-law tracks.

Entry requirements

Typical entry is from secondary school with a recognised high school diploma or equivalent. Applicants normally need a record of satisfactory academic achievement in a range of subjects, with particular attention to writing and humanities coursework for this programme. Mature students, adult learners and those with prior college credit are welcome; CUNY has established pathways for transfer students from community colleges and other institutions.

International applicants must meet English-language proficiency requirements, usually demonstrated by recognised tests or previous study in English. Specific colleges within CUNY may set additional requirements such as minimum GPA for transfer applicants, prerequisite courses or an interview for certain pathways. Applicants should consult the admissions pages of the specific CUNY campus offering the programme for precise documentation and any portfolio or statement of purpose guidance.

Career prospects

A BA in Liberal Arts and Sciences (General Studies and Humanities) prepares graduates for a wide range of entry-level and developmental roles where strong communication, critical thinking and analytical skills are prized. Common career destinations include education and teaching pathways (often combined with further certification), public service and non-profit work, cultural institutions and museums, publishing and editorial work, communications and public relations, and entry-level roles in business, human resources and community organisations.

Many graduates pursue graduate study in disciplines such as education, law, library and information science, public policy, social work and humanities disciplines. The programme’s transferable skills also support entrepreneurship, project coordination and roles that require research, writing and stakeholder engagement. CUNY students frequently augment their degree with internships, campus career services and industry partnerships in New York City to build practical experience and professional networks.

Why study at CUNY(The City University of New York)

CUNY offers an urban, professionally connected context with multiple colleges and a wide range of elective and cross-registration options, allowing students to customise an interdisciplinary liberal arts education. The system is known for being transfer-friendly, providing clear pathways from community colleges and flexible supports for adult learners and working students.

Students benefit from access to New York City’s cultural institutions, non-profit sector, government agencies and businesses for internships and experiential learning. Campuses provide academic advising, writing centres, career services and opportunities to engage in research, public scholarship and community-based projects that connect classroom learning to the city’s complex social and cultural fabric.