From polymers to poetry, liberal arts and humanities students study a wide range of subjects. Across these disciplines, students develop a broad base of essential skills, positioning them to analyze complex issues from multiple perspectives in every field. As lifelong learners, liberal arts and humanities students approach the world as they find it, not as they wish it to be, and this adaptability prepares them for a broad spectrum of careers and pursuits limited only by their time and imagination.
From the classroom to the courtroom, the boardroom to the concert hall, studying life at the bottom of the ocean, or leading research into new technologies, liberal arts and humanities students come prepared. Where can a liberal arts and humanities education take you? As our graduates can attest--practically anywhere!
93% of employers value education that encourages students to think for themselves
90% of employers value liberal education outcomes like teamwork, critical thinking, and written communication
81% of employers see adaptability and flexibility as very important to succeeding in the workplace.
"The basic purpose of a liberal arts education is to liberate the human being to exercise his or her potential to the fullest."
-- Barbara M. White, (1920--1984) First woman to attain ambassadorial rank in the United States delegation to the United Nations.
The liberal arts and humanities encompass a broad and interdisciplinary approach to learning, emphasizing the development of critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills across diverse fields such as literature, history, philosophy, mathematics, and the sciences.
Liberal arts and humanities education aims to cultivate well-rounded individuals capable of navigating complex issues and contributing meaningfully to society.
Liberal arts and humanities education emphasizes effective communication skills, both written and verbal, which are essential in today's interconnected global landscape. It also promotes cultural competence by exposing students to diverse perspectives and historical contexts. Ultimately, a liberal arts education prepares students with a strong foundation in critical thinking, communication, and cultural awareness, graduates are well-equipped to succeed in any endeavor they pursue.
YES! A liberal arts education is not limited to the humanities and social sciences. SUNY Fredonia offers many robust STEM programs deeply integrated into our well-rounded curricula. These STEM degrees, while providing rigorous training in technical disciplines like science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, also emphasize the development of critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving abilities that are hallmarks of a liberal arts education. By combining specialized STEM knowledge with the broader perspectives and skills cultivated through liberal arts and humanities studies (turning STEM into STEAM), graduates are exceptionally well-prepared to excel in their chosen fields.
We live in a digital world where entrepreneurs are trying every day to replace everything from newspapers to taxis to our currency with reimagined technologic augmentation. A liberal arts and humanities education provides an indispensable foundation for lifelong learning, critical thinking, and ethical reasoning - important human qualities that will always matter as technology evolves. Those who pair technical knowledge with a grounding in the liberal arts and humanities will be prepared for whatever advances the future holds.
Rooted in their interdisciplinary approach to learning and fostered through diverse coursework in literature, history, philosophy, and the arts, liberal arts and humanities students develop a capacity for critical thinking and innovative problem-solving.
Liberal arts and humanities programs prepare graduates for a wide variety of different fields and opportunities, with great potential for advancement and a satisfying career.
Leadership, strategic thinking, teamwork and effective communication are among the many desirable skills employers seek and can find in liberal arts and humanities graduates.
Thanks to the amazing advisors and faculty here at Fredonia, students have hundreds of opportunities for internships and work opportunities directly after graduation. The staff here always have your future, and best interests at heart. I now have a clear path to pursue my career.
— Hayley Mercer
Class of 2025
