The Bachelor in Liberal Arts and Sciences (General Studies and Humanities) at Florida International University is an interdisciplinary degree that combines humanities, social sciences and communication studies to develop broad analytical, writing and research skills. It suits students who want a flexible programme to explore multiple disciplines, prepare for professional roles, or build a foundation for graduate study.
What you'll study
The programme emphasises a broad undergraduate education across the humanities and related fields. You will complete lower-division general education requirements and then choose from a range of upper-division courses to build a personalised programme of study. Typical areas of study include literature and cultural studies, history, philosophy, languages and linguistics, visual and performing arts, media and communication, and selected social science electives.
- Foundations: courses in critical reading and academic writing, research methods, and quantitative reasoning.
- Humanities core: surveys of literature, history, philosophy and cultural theory that provide historical and conceptual frameworks.
- Concentration electives: focused sequences in topics such as comparative literature, digital humanities, public history, film studies, or language studies (dependent on student choice and available electives).
- Interdisciplinary seminars: small-group, discussion-based courses that bring together perspectives from multiple disciplines to address contemporary issues.
- Capstone or senior project: a substantial research project, practicum or portfolio that integrates learning and demonstrates scholarly and professional competencies.
- Experiential learning: internship opportunities, community-engaged projects, or study abroad options that connect classroom learning with professional contexts.
Entry requirements
Admission into FIU’s bachelor’s programmes typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of college-preparatory coursework. Applicants are considered on the basis of academic transcripts and overall preparation for university-level work.
- First-year applicants: secondary school transcripts and any standardised test results if submitted; evidence of readiness in English composition and college preparatory subjects.
- Transfer applicants: official college transcripts showing transferable credit or an associate degree; a record of successful completion of introductory-level coursework relevant to the major.
- International students: proof of secondary completion equivalent to U.S. high school graduation and demonstration of English proficiency (accepted tests or institutional equivalents).
- Other materials: some applicants may submit a personal statement or academic writing sample; letters of recommendation are optional unless specifically requested.
Because programme entry can be competitive, applicants should contact FIU admissions or the departmental advising office for guidance on preparation and transfer credit evaluation.
Career prospects
Graduates of the General Studies and Humanities path gain transferable skills—critical thinking, persuasive writing, research, cultural literacy and effective communication—that employers across sectors value. The degree supports a wide range of career paths and further study.
- Public and non-profit sectors: community programme coordinator, policy assistant, outreach specialist, cultural organisation staff.
- Communications and media: content writer, editor, social media or public relations specialist, communications coordinator.
- Education and libraries: classroom teaching (with additional certification), library technician, educational programme developer.
- Business and administration: human resources, project support, client services, training and development roles.
- Further study: many graduates progress to specialised master’s programmes (e.g. humanities, public administration, law, journalism) or professional qualifications.
Why study at Florida International University
Florida International University offers a multicultural campus in Miami, providing strong regional connections to cultural institutions, businesses and government agencies—useful for internships and applied projects. The university’s interdisciplinary approach allows students to tailor study plans and draw on courses across colleges and departments.
- Location advantages: proximity to cultural organisations, international business and a multilingual community supports applied learning and networking.
- Academic support: access to advising, writing centres, research libraries and faculty with expertise across humanities and social sciences.
- Experiential opportunities: internships, community engagement programmes and study abroad options that enrich classroom learning.
- Flexible pathways: transfer-friendly policies and options to combine coursework with minors or certificates to broaden career prospects.
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