Liberal Studies

Description

The major in liberal studies provides students with the opportunity to construct a coherent program of study in the arts, humanities, and social sciences which explores the expressions and experiences of the human family.  These studies develop in the student a lifelong habit of cultivating the intellectual strength, versatility, and freedom that come from a coherent study of the liberal arts: the abilities to think critically, to relate the lessons of history to personal ambitions for the future, to write and to speak clearly, to enjoy fine art and great music, to make honest and ethical judgments, to appreciate and celebrate the rich diversity of cultures and languages of the nations around the world, and to pursue with passion and intelligence those causes that enlarge the meaning of human existence.

This major is designed for students in the School of Professional Studies interested in an interdisciplinary approach to the ideas and values of cultures whose professions already situate them within the humanities, such as librarians, ministers, and teachers who wish to broaden their subject base; whose interests suggest undergraduate study in compatible minors -- cultural studies, women's studies, and religious studies; and whose business and professional experiences encourage and require the valuable insights that the liberal arts can provide with regard to complex technological contexts.  This major is also ideal for students who are seeking to complete a major in Trinity's Second Baccalaureate Degree Program.

Major Requirements

Required Courses (6 credits)
ALL of the following courses:
LST 100 Humanity and Culture
LST 400 Senior Seminar in Liberal Studies

Electives -- must be at the 200-level or higher (33 credits)
THREE literature courses (in at least 2 different cultures)
TWO philosophy courses, excluding PHI 103
TWO theology courses
TWO history courses
ONE music course
ONE art history course

Program Policies

Advanced Placement: Credit will be granted for the score of 4 or 5 on a field-appropriate AP examination.
CLEP Policy: CLEP scores may count toward major requirements with the approval of the Program Chair.
Grades in Major Courses: Students are required to earn a grade of "C" (2.0) or better in all courses counted to fulfill requirements for the major.
Pass/No Pass: Courses fulfilling the major requirement may not be taken pass/no pass.
Senior Assessment: The senior assessment is a component part of LST 400 Senior Seminar in Liberal Studies.
TELL Policy: TELL credits do not count toward major requirements.
Transfer Credits: Transfer credit will be awarded after appropriate program review and approval.

Course Descriptions

LST 100 Humanity and Culture 3 cr

Fosters both the appreciation of the diversity among world cultures and the commonality of human experience as well as an understanding of how these realities are reflected in cultural expression, myth, and principles.

LST 400 Senior Seminar in Liberal Studies 3 cr

Provides students with the opportunity to design a project that will synthesize their studies.