Liberal arts education is a traditional academic course in Western higher education that takes the term "art" in the sense of a learned skill rather than specifically the fine arts. Liberal arts education can refer to studies in a liberal arts degree course or to a university education more generally. Such a course of study contrasts with those that are principally vocational, professional, or technical, as well as religiously-based courses. The modern use of the term liberal arts consists of four areas: the natural sciences, social sciences, arts, and humanities. Academic areas that are associated with the term liberal arts include:
- Life sciences (biology, ecology, neuroscience)
- Physical science (physics, astronomy, chemistry, geology, physical geography)
- Logic, mathematics, statistics
- Philosophy
- History
- Literature
- Writing
- Sociology
- Psychology
- Creative arts and more
A liberal arts degree includes the study of history, literature, writing, philosophy, sociology, psychology, creative arts, and more. Liberal arts degrees foster key skills, like critical thinking and communication, and promote general education and creative problem-solving. Earning a liberal arts degree can be an effective way to show employers that you have the skills necessary to be an asset in a range of fields. With further training, nearly all liberal arts degrees can lead to careers in education, politics, public service, research, and more.
