BA in Liberal Arts

Historically, the liberal arts were considered the branches of study fit for free men (liber is Latin for “free”). They were contrasted with skills needed for more mechanical trades and professions. Today, as liberal arts majors at Southern Virginia, students read, study, and investigate the main issues in a range of liberal arts disciplines (such as history, literature, art, philosophy, and the sciences) and thereby become well-practiced critical thinking and reasoning and aesthetic judgment. They also gain an appreciation for the historical and cultural contexts that frame our contemporary world and its problems—a valuable perspective for all leader-servants in our day.

One of the great advantages of a liberal arts major is its versatility. Students may mold their study programs to include specific areas of interest within the context of the major requirements (a current major has successfully combined minors in government, chemistry, and math). When suitably completed or supplemented with minor emphasis, the liberal arts major is excellent preparation for a career or graduate program in law, business, medicine, education, public service, the arts, and other fields.