what is a liberal arts college

A liberal arts college is a type of higher education institution that emphasizes undergraduate study in liberal arts and general sciences. These colleges aim to provide a broad general knowledge and develop general skills rather than focusing on professional or technical skills. They typically offer degrees in fields such as humanities, sciences, and social sciences, and are known for their smaller class sizes, wide-ranging curricula, and tight-knit communities. Liberal arts colleges are designed to develop intellectually curious students into free thinkers who are versatile in various areas. They also encourage students to explore a wide array of skills and foster connections within a tight-knit college community. While many liberal arts colleges are exclusively undergraduate, some also offer graduate programs that lead to masters or doctoral degrees in subjects such as English, general biology, fine arts, and law. The term "liberal arts college" most commonly refers to an independent institution with a specialty in non-technical coursework, but it may also sometimes refer to a university college within or affiliated with a larger university. Liberal arts colleges are found across the United States and are recognized for their emphasis on a well-rounded education and critical thinking skills.