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How to Apply
How to Apply

The Bachelor of Arts In Liberal Arts and Interdisciplinary Studies From MBU

A Flexible Program That Allows You to Design Your Educational Journey

Employers value adaptability and diverse skill sets. A Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and Interdisciplinary Studies (LAIS) from Mary Baldwin University empowers you to tailor your education to your unique interests and career aspirations. 

This flexible, online bachelor’s program offers two distinct tracks: Educational Foundations and Humanities. We allow you to curate a degree that aligns with your personal passions and professional goals.

Why Pursue a Liberal Arts and Interdisciplinary Studies Degree at MBU

At MBU, the LAIS major reflects our commitment to providing a comprehensive liberal arts education. Drawing from multiple disciplines, the online bachelor’s program lets you choose a track that aligns with your educational goals.

Educational Foundations Track. Ideal for those interested in education without pursuing teacher licensure, this track prepares you for roles in developing instructional content or leading educational programs across various sectors, including government, nonprofits and private organizations.

Humanities Track. If you’re passionate about history, literature, and the arts, the Humanities track offers a robust foundation in History and English, with opportunities to explore courses in Philosophy, Religious Studies, Art History and Foreign Languages.

Features of the LAIS program include a customized curriculum, diverse coursework that allows students to engage in a wide array of subjects, and an experienced faculty who are dedicated to personalized instruction and student success.

Curriculum Highlights

As an LAIS major at Mary Baldwin University, you’ll complete core requirements alongside your chosen track, ensuring both a solid foundation and the flexibility to pursue your interests.

Educational Foundations courses include:

  • Foundations of Education
  • Characteristics of Exceptionality
  • Social Skills and Behavioral Strategies: ASD
  • Methods of teaching Social Studies
  • Language Acquisition and Literacy
  • Classroom and Behavior Management

Humanities courses include:

  • Women’s Writing
  • Children’s and Young Adult Literature
  • Nature in America
  • Poetics of Hip-Hop 
  • Sexuality & Gender in America
  • History of the Civil Rights Movement

This interdisciplinary approach equips you with versatile skills applicable to various professional settings.

Potential Careers

Potential careers for graduates of Mary Baldwin’s LAIS program include:

  • Educational Program Developer
  • Museum Educator
  • Non-Profit Coordinator
  • Corporate Trainer
  • Communications Specialist

This degree also serves as a strong foundation for advanced studies in various disciplines. Embark on a personalized educational journey with Mary Baldwin University’s BA in Liberal Arts and Interdisciplinary Studies program.

Admissions Requirements

No application fee is required for undergraduate students. The BA in Liberal Arts and Interdisciplinary Studies is offered both online and on-campus. The Online Admissions Office reviews applications and renders an admission decision within three business days. More information on admission requirements for online students can be found here: https://catalog.marybaldwin.edu/mbu-online-undergraduate-admission

  • All undergraduate degree programs require a high school diploma or some college experience.
  • Students with no prior college experience who have a cumulative GPA of 2.6 on their high school transcript are automatically accepted into MBU Online pending they have no academic, disciplinary, or criminal issues.
  • Students below 2.6 will be sent to a review by the MBU Online Committee to evaluate if the student can be offered conditional admission, “special student status” or would be denied admission to the University.
  • Students applying for an undergraduate degree program with some college experience:  
  • Students with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher on their most recent college transcripts are automatically accepted into MBU Online pending they have no academic, disciplinary or criminal issues.
  • Students with a 1.7 to 2.0 could be offered conditional admission to the University pending approval by committee.
  • Students with a 1.7 or lower will be sent to a review by the MBU online admissions committee to evaluate if the student can be offered “special student status” or would be denied admission to the University.
  • Undergraduate students are not required to provide a personal statement or resume for admission.
  • Proof of English proficiency: Fluent in written and spoken English. Non-native English speakers must submit one of the following with the minimum score noted: Duolingo, 130; IELTS, 7.0; TOEFL, 98.

Ready to Find Out More about MBU Online Degree Programs?

If you have questions, reach out to discuss your goals and explore how this program aligns with them. Our admissions team is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way – from selecting your degree and completing your application to preparing for your first day of class.

We’re excited about the opportunity to help you take the next step in your academic journey.