UMass Lowell's Bachelor in Liberal Arts (BLA) program uses an interdisciplinary approach to learning to equip you to examine complex topics dealing with the environment, poverty, governance, peace and conflict, education and more.
You will select two concentrations (from humanities, social sciences and interdisciplinary disciplines) and take a minimum of six courses in each concentration. Sample concentrations include theatre arts, legal studies and economics (see Approved Concentrations below for a complete list).
You will also choose courses to meet the Interdisciplinary Focus requirement, which ties everything together. Most students take Foundations in Liberal Studies in their sophomore year and Capstone in Liberal Studies in their senior year.
The Foundations course uses a case study approach to teach students how to examine complex topics using interdisciplinary methodologies.
The Capstone project can be an original research project, creative artwork or community service project. Sample projects include examining the social and political consequences of global warming and exploring the legal responses to genocide in the 20th century.
All students in the BLA program must also satisfy the College of Fine Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences (FAHSS) language requirement.
BLA advisers work closely with each student throughout the program leading to the successful completion of the degree.
Learning Outcomes
Students who graduate with a degree in Liberal Arts will be able to:
Define the value and unique perspective of Interdisciplinary Studies
Understand the significance and value of a Liberal Arts education
Explain and use interdisciplinary research methods
Generate a unique capstone project bringing together BLA concentrations and any minors
Synthesize theories and methodologies across disciplines
Produce clear written and oral communication for a broad range of audiences
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please
Expected July, December 2025
Start date
January 2025
University of Massachusetts - Lowell
Lowell,
Massachusetts,
01854, United States
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please
Expected July, December 2025
Start date
January 2025
University of Massachusetts - Lowell
Lowell,
Massachusetts,
01854, United States
You are considered a first-year student if you have not taken any post-secondary/college coursework. Your application should include your high school or secondary school records, including results from culminating or leaving examinations.
UMass Lowell requires the following minimum exam scores:
Duolingo: First-year applicants: 110
IELTS: First-year applicant: 6.50
TOEFL: All applicants: 79.00
ASC English: All applicants: Minimum score 6 - High Advanced
Pearson Test of English: First-year applicant: 61.00
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
The university has an excellent graduate employment rate, with 98 percent of graduates employed, in grad school or volunteering within six months.
