Liberal Studies

The Liberal Studies major is a pre-professional program leading to Multiple Subject or Special Education credential programs. Our mission is to insure that students graduate with a strong subject matter background and necessary experience and content to prepare them for a teaching career in elementary education. The major is approved by The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing as an authorized elementary subject matter program.

Program Highlights

Liberal Studies students gain elementary classroom experience, choose from 26 diverse concentrations, and make a seamless transition into the Multiple Subject Credential Program or Special Education Credential Program.

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College Statements

Mission: Preparing Leaders in Learning

The mission of the College of Education, Kinesiology & Social Work is to engage faculty and students in instruction, scholarship, and professional experiences that provide subject-specific, pedagogical, and practical knowledge essential for planning, implementing and assessing educationally-related activities. We are committed to the development of diverse educational leaders who meet the needs of a multicultural and multilingual society. Our programs are designed to advance the ethical behaviors and professional leadership capacities of students through participation in coursework, field experiences, and scholarly activities that together cultivate reflection and encourage innovation in educational settings. We provide multiple and systematic opportunities for students to make connections between their professional responsibilities and their roles as educational leaders in the larger society, and to serve as advocates for children, families, and communities.

Vision: Enhancing Lifelong Learning

The preparation programs in the College of Education, Kinesiology & Social Work strive to instill professional habits that result in lifelong learning. We endeavor to prepare educators who impact positively and optimally on the academic achievement and well-being of all of their P-14 pupils. To this end, we model a culture of educational and rigor, and we model systematic use of assessment and reflections to inform decision-making. We strive to ensure that College of Education, Kinesiology & Social Work students, faculty, and staff reflect the diversity of our local communities, possess the competence and confidence to provide leadership in their professional roles, and actively pursue personal and professional lifelong learning.