University of Missouri-Kansas City

What you'll study

The General Studies and Humanities pathway emphasises interdisciplinary study across literature, history, philosophy, languages, cultural studies and the arts. You will complete a core of liberal-arts foundational courses in writing, critical reasoning, quantitative literacy and research methods, then select humanities-focused electives to create a coherent programme of study.

• Core subjects: college writing, critical thinking, cultural diversity, and introductory humanities surveys.
• Typical humanities modules: world literature, American literature, intellectual history, modern philosophy, ethics, film and media studies, and cultural theory.
• Interdisciplinary options: courses in sociology, anthropology, political science, art history, languages and digital humanities to support thematic concentrations.
• Skills development: emphasis on academic writing, oral communication, qualitative research methods, digital literacy and project-based learning.
• Capstone or integrative experience: a senior seminar, research project or practicum that synthesises learning across disciplines and demonstrates applied skills.

Students can usually personalise the degree with minors or certificates—such as professional writing, museum studies, global studies or public humanities—and take advantage of experiential learning opportunities including internships, community-engaged projects and undergraduate research.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised high school diploma or equivalent. Admissions decisions consider academic record, college preparatory coursework (including English and social studies), and a competitive cumulative GPA. UMKC assesses applications holistically; standardised tests may be considered where submitted, but many applicants apply under test-optional policies.

• Domestic applicants: high school transcripts and any college coursework completed; a personal statement is often recommended to explain academic interests and goals.
• Transfer students: official college transcripts showing completion of general education or associate-level work; most transfers are expected to meet a minimum college GPA and will receive guidance on how previous credits apply.
• International applicants: proof of secondary school completion, official transcripts and evidence of English proficiency such as TOEFL or IELTS scores unless exempt.

Certain pathways or scholarships may require additional materials; prospective students should consult UMKC admissions for specific documentation and advice on course planning.

Career prospects

A liberal arts and humanities background prepares graduates for careers that value critical thinking, communication and adaptability. Common career paths include:

• Communications, public relations and marketing roles
• Publishing, editing and professional writing
• Public service, non-profit management and community engagement
• Education and outreach (note: K–12 teaching typically requires additional certification)
• Cultural institutions such as museums, archives and arts organisations
• Business roles in human resources, project coordination and organisational development
• Graduate and professional studies (law, library science, public policy, humanities master’s programmes)

Internships, practicum placements and UMKC’s urban partnerships often help students build professional experience and local networks that support job placement or graduate-school applications.

Why study at University of Missouri-Kansas City

UMKC is located in the cultural and economic heart of Kansas City, offering students access to arts institutions, civic organisations and a broad internship market. The university emphasises small classes and faculty mentorship in the humanities, enabling close interaction with professors and opportunities to undertake undergraduate research.

• Interdisciplinary flexibility: the programme supports customised study plans and cross-college collaborations with the arts, social sciences and professional schools.
• Experiential learning: partnerships with museums, theatres, non-profits and government agencies in Kansas City provide applied learning and service opportunities.
• Support for transfer and adult learners: established advising services help students map prior credits and balance work or family commitments while completing the degree.
• Preparation for further study: the curriculum builds the analytical and writing skills valued by graduate and professional programmes.

Taken together, UMKC’s urban setting, flexible curriculum and emphasis on applied humanities make the Bachelor in Liberal Arts and Sciences (General Studies and Humanities) a strong choice for students seeking a broad, career-ready education in the liberal arts.