Alvernia University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary degree combines a core liberal arts curriculum with flexible electives drawn from humanities, social sciences and natural sciences. Students complete foundation courses in writing, research methods and critical thinking, with thematic options such as literature and cultural studies, history and philosophy, communication and media, ethics and religion, and introductory social science and natural science modules.

• Core skills: academic writing, oral communication, quantitative reasoning, and research methods.
• Humanities options: British and American literature, world literature, philosophy, religious studies, art history and cultural studies.
• Social science options: psychology, sociology, political science, anthropology and interdisciplinary courses in public policy and community studies.
• Natural science options: introductory biology, environmental studies, and courses that support a broad scientific literacy.
• Experiential components: internship or practicum opportunities, community-engaged learning, and an integrative capstone or senior project that emphasises interdisciplinary inquiry.

The programme is intentionally flexible, allowing students to tailor a course of study to personal interests or professional goals while meeting general education requirements. Students often combine coursework with minors or certificates to gain specialised skills.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor in Liberal Arts and Sciences is based on a completed secondary-school qualification or recognised equivalent. Typical application materials include a completed application form, official high-school transcripts, and a personal statement outlining academic interests and goals.

• Academic background: successful completion of secondary education with a record demonstrating readiness for college-level work.
• Standardised tests: standardised test submission policies may vary; check with admissions for current guidance if you have SAT or ACT results.
• International applicants: must provide proof of secondary education equivalency and demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or institutional pathways if English is not the first language.
• Additional materials: some applicants submit letters of recommendation, a résumé of extracurricular or work experience, or a portfolio where relevant to their intended focus.

Admitted students will work with an academic advisor to confirm placement in foundational courses and to plan a programme of study that reflects their objectives.

Career prospects

Graduates of the General Studies and Humanities pathway develop versatile skills prized by employers: effective written and verbal communication, critical and analytical thinking, problem-solving and ethical reasoning. Those skills translate across many sectors.

• Public and community services: roles in non-profit organisations, community outreach, programme coordination and advocacy.
• Education and training: entry-level positions in educational support, adult education, or as a foundation for teacher preparation and graduate study.
• Business and administration: positions in human resources, marketing, communications, customer relations and project support.
• Media and communications: roles in publishing, digital content, public relations and social media management.
• Further study: many graduates continue to graduate programmes in law, social work, public administration, humanities or interdisciplinary studies.

Internships, community-engaged projects and the capstone experience help students build practical experience and professional networks while still at university.

Why study at Alvernia University

Alvernia offers a personalised liberal arts education rooted in Franciscan values, emphasising service, ethical leadership and community engagement. Small class sizes provide close faculty mentoring and opportunities for undergraduate research, collaborative projects and hands-on learning.

• Student support: comprehensive advising, career services, writing and tutoring centres to support academic success and career readiness.
• Experiential learning: strong ties with local organisations and businesses create internship and practicum placements across the region.
• Flexible pathways: the programme’s interdisciplinary structure lets students combine majors, minors or certificate programmes to customise their academic and professional profile.
• Campus community: a campus culture focused on service, leadership and global awareness, with opportunities for study abroad, civic engagement and student-led initiatives.

Taken together, the curriculum, supportive environment and experiential opportunities make Alvernia’s Liberal Arts and Sciences degree a strong choice for students who value breadth of learning and practical preparation for varied career paths or further study.