Higher Education / University Glossary

Liberal Studies

What does the academic term Liberal Studies mean in higher education?

Liberal Studies


Liberal Studies definition

Short Definition

Liberal Studies are a multidisciplinary approach to education that emphasizes critical thinking, communication and problem-solving skills.


In-depth Overview

Liberal Studies

Long definition: Liberal Studies is an interdisciplinary academic program or approach to education that emphasizes a broad and well-rounded curriculum, encompassing a wide range of subjects in the arts, humanities, social sciences and natural sciences. The goal of liberal studies is to provide students with a comprehensive education that fosters critical thinking, cultural awareness and intellectual versatility, rather than specializing in a single field of study.

Etymology: The term "liberal" in Liberal Studies has its roots in the Latin word "liberalis", meaning "pertaining to a free person" or "worthy of a free person". It reflects the idea that this type of education is intended to free the mind and develop a person's intellectual and moral faculties.

Synonyms or related academic terms: General Education, Core Curriculum, Liberal Arts Education.

Examples of Use:

  • Liberal Studies programs often require students to take courses in literature, history, mathematics and the sciences, regardless of their major.
  • Many universities offer a Liberal Studies major that allows students to design a personalized curriculum based on their interests.
  • The Liberal Studies approach aims to produce graduates with a well-rounded education that prepares them for a variety of careers and life situations.

Translations:
Spanish: Estudios Liberales
French: Études Libérales
German: Allgemeinbildung
Italian: Studi Umanistici
Portuguese: Estudos Liberais
Japanese: リベラル・スタディーズ (Riberaru Sutadīzu)
Chinese (Simplified): 通识教育 (Tōngshí Jiàoyù)
Hindi: उदार अध्ययन (Udār Adhyayan)

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Wikipedia Article

Liberal Studies


unirank Glossary Classification

Miscellaneous higher education terms > University academic terms



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