Online Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies
Customize Your Education
100% Online Coursework
Multiple Concentrations
Generous Transfer Credit Policy
Classes Start Soon!
Learn More Today
Complete the form to learn more about Adelphi’s programs. An enrollment counselor will reach out to you to discuss coursework, financial aid and more.
- Duration 2-3 Years
- Cost per Credit $475
- Credit Hours 30-120*
Program Benefits
- Design-Your-Own Degree through concentration areas
- Save time and money through Credit for Prior Learning
- Preparation for an advanced degree
- Full access to on-campus services on Long Island, NYC and Hudson Valley
*A maximum of 90 transfer credit hours may be accepted, subject to approval, which will affect the final number of credit hours and tuition. To learn more about credit for prior learning click here.
Study the Topics That Interest You
Designed to help adult learners and students who are seeking to complete their degrees continue their education, Adelphi’s liberal studies program offers coursework in a wide variety of practical fields. In this program, you’ll choose between classes in four areas of study: social science, psychology, business and emergency management. Each online concentration is led by faculty with real-world experience and passion for their subject.
Our program is made to be flexible, allowing up to 90 credits for previous coursework and work experience, ensuring timely graduation. We also offer robust career services and internship opportunities to help to help ensure you are set up for every possible success to complete your goals throughout the program and after.
Gain the Skills You Need for Success
120 Credits
7.5-week courses
Through the 30 major courses in Adelphi’s online BA in Liberal Studies, you’ll be able to choose courses that customize your learning to fit your academic and career goals. This program includes four concentrations options (choose two to complete your degree): social science, psychology, business and emergency management.
You’ll develop skills in a variety of subjects to ensure a well-rounded approach to your career. With courses like media and society, introduction to behavior psychology, emergency and disaster preparedness and more, this program will give you a strong skill set in the practical subjects that interest you most. Our faculty is dedicated to helping you succeed, and depending on your transfer credits, the program can be completed in as few as two semesters.
BA in Liberal Studies Required Core Courses
Issues in this course are examined from the perspectives of the social sciences, using core constructs of each as frameworks for understanding the complex forces that shape our social and individual world. Principles of inquiry are used in the course to support students’ abilities to apply knowledge to daily problems.
Adelphi BA in Liberal Studies Admissions Details
120 Credits Required for Program
Transfer Up to 90 Credits
Apply now to earn your Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies degree from Adelphi University. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
| Degree | Graduation from a four-year secondary school |
| Transcripts | Official transcripts from all prior institutions |
| Other Requirements | Other requirements include a résumé , letter of recommendation, personal essay and a $50 application fee |
| Online Application Form | Apply Now |
International Students
Adelphi University welcomes international students. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
| Degree | Graduation from a four-year secondary school |
| Transcripts | Official transcripts from all prior institutions in both English and the original language |
| Other Requirements | Other requirements include a résumé, letter of recommendation, SAT/ACT or English proficiency exam (TOEFL, IELTS, or DET) scores, personal essay and a $50 application fee |
| Online Application Form | Apply Now |
Transfer Credits
The BA in Liberal Studies program allows for up to 90 transfer credits, depending on the prior learning assessment, although a minimum of 30 must be taken at Adelphi. If students come in with credits from the following concentrations, not offered in the online program, Literature, Natural Science or Criminal Justice, they can use those to fulfill the second concentration requirement. To learn more about credit for prior learning click here.
When to Apply
Apply now to earn your Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies degree from Adelphi University. With three start dates per year, it’s never been a better time to take the next step. Call 855.476.7985 to learn more.
An Affordable Degree in Liberal Studies
$14,250-$57,000** Total Tuition
$475** Per Credit Hour
The online Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies program offers a cost-effective way to customize an education that will work for you and your future. We have a team that’s dedicated to answering your financial questions and they’ll be there to assist you with financial aid, scholarship opportunities, loans and military benefits.
| Cost per credit hour | $475** |
| Total number of credit hours | 120* |
| Total estimated cost, minus fees | $14,250-$57,000** |
| Additional fees, if applicable | $50 application fee |
*You can transfer in a maximum of 90 credit hours, which will affect the final number of credit hours and tuition. A minimum of 30 credit hours must be earned at Adelphi.
Military Students
Your education is an investment, and at Adelphi University we’re proud to make it as affordable as possible. We now offer tuition for Veterans & Active Military (including eligible spouses and dependent children) at a discounted rate of just $250 per credit hour for undergraduate programs.
Additionally, an application fee waiver is available to all military personnel and veterans. To learn more about this and other benefits for servicemembers please visit our veterans and military resource page here.
Financial Aid Opportunities
When you apply to Adelphi University, we suggest you fill out the FAFSA® as soon as possible. Adelphi’s FAFSA® number is 002666.
In addition to FAFSA® and any financial aid Adelphi University can offer, we encourage you to search for tuition assistance from your employer, grants or scholarships. You can also speak with an Adelphi enrollment counselor at any time to explore your options by calling 855.476.7985. Find out more about financial aid.
Explore Four Career-Focused Concentrations
With four unique online concentrations available, students can take tailor their degree to focus on Social Science, Psychology, Business or Emergency Management. You can reach out to an enrollment counselor to find out more.
855.476.7985 Find Out MoreExplore Social Science
100% Online
2-Year Duration
30-120 Credits
In the social sciences concentration, you’ll learn about the economy and political system, and gain foundational knowledge in anthropology and more. Your new understandings and skills will be vital in helping you find a career in the field.
Social Sciences Concentration Courses (5 courses from the list below in any order.)
An introduction to the study of behavior, this course includes the investigation of sensation and perception, motivation and learning, physiological psychology, developmental and comparative psychology and measurement. Some major theorists and practitioners to be studied are James, Watson, Skinner and Freud.
Issues in this course are examined from the perspectives of the social sciences, using core constructs of each as frameworks for understanding the complex forces that shape our social and individual world. Principles of inquiry are used in the course to support students’ abilities to apply knowledge to daily problems.
Learn the theory of national income determination; the goals of full employment, price stability, and economic growth. Examine alternative uses of fiscal and monetary policy, how the national economy operates, and with what consequences.
This course will explore the issues of prejudice as they relate to human behavior from the perspective of the individual in various social contexts. To address the different learning styles of students, we will utilize readings, films, discussions, and field assignments to investigate the impact of prejudice on various aspects of living.
This course is an introduction to the study of interpersonal and technological communication and the part they play in social and cultural life.
Learn About the World of Psychology
100% Online
2-Year Duration
30-120 Credits
In the psychology concentration, you’ll get an introduction to fundamental ideas and concepts, including ones relating to interpersonal behavior, counseling and more.
Psychology Concentration Courses (5 courses from the list below in any order.)
An introduction to the study of behavior, this course includes the investigation of sensation and perception, motivation and learning, physiological psychology, developmental and comparative psychology and measurement. Some major theorists and practitioners to be studied are James, Watson, Skinner and Freud.
This course examines the effects of self-control, covert conditioning, and thinking and group controls, such as media, government, and religion. Among the thinkers are Skinner and Watson.
This course is about lifespan development. This course is designed to promote critical thinking skills about current issues representing different aspects of lifespan psychology which includes the social, physical, emotional, and cognitive development in childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Course sessions include weekly chapter readings, weekly quizzes and reflection papers, videos, and online class discussions.
An inductive learning experience in group process, examining trust formation, communication, control operations, and decision making. Some sharing of personal feelings will occur not to extend beyond the point when each student feels comfortable.
This course explores addiction as a learned behavior with social and psychological causes.
This course examines several broad theoretical perspectives and their practical application to counseling with individuals, groups, couples, and families.
This course will explore the issues of prejudice as they relate to human behavior from the perspective of the individual in various social contexts. To address the different learning styles of students, we will utilize readings, films, discussions, and field assignments to investigate the impact of prejudice on various aspects of living.
Course description coming soon.
Understand the Versatility of Business
100% Online
2-Year Duration
30-120 Credits
In the business concentration, you’ll learn principles of business and how they can also be applied to fields from counseling to education and more.
Business Concentration Courses (5 courses from the list below in any order.)
Review absolute value, polynomials, linear and quadratic equations, and inequalities. Learn to graph lines and inequalities. Learn how to graph polynomial and rational functions, and exponential and logarithmic functions, understand their properties, and find their roots, extrema, asymptotes, and discover their applications.
Learn the theory of national income determination; the goals of full employment, price stability, and economic growth. Examine alternative uses of fiscal and monetary policy, how the national economy operates, and with what consequences.
Research and report presentation, both written and oral. Emphasis on clarity and conciseness in writing applied to business letters, memos, and short and long reports; persuasive speaking to one or many; communication skills for the work place.
Introduces both accounting and non-accounting majors to the principles and theories of accounting, including the preparation and use of financial statements. Other topics covered: inventory costing, accounting for receivables and payables, fixed assets, payrolls, and cash flow analysis.
This course introduces both accounting and non-accounting majors to the cost information needs of management and the use of accounting information for decision-making and control. Topics include operating costs, cost behavior, budgeting, job order costs, cost-volume-profit analysis, responsibility accounting, standard costing, pricing decisions, capital budgeting and financial statement analysis.
Prerequisite 1: ACC 101
This course examines the nature and impact of law and ethics on the domestic and international operations of a business enterprise. The law is studied as an instrument of social change. Specific attention is paid to regulatory agencies, unions and labor relations, antitrust, consumer affairs, environmental impact, and contracts. The course also addresses the relationship of ethics to profit, social responsibility, government relations, and the role of business in society.
Prerequisite 1: MGT 262
This course uses lectures, case studies and class discussions to examine the foundations of international business, its fundamental forms and objectives. Major environments affecting the growth of international business are compared including legal, cultural, economic, political, financial, and technological. Finally, management actions in the international context are described and explored.
Prerequisite 1: MGT 262 (ECA 111 and ECA 112) or ECA 101
Note: Business majors are required to take ECA 111 and 112.
This course explores the role of marketing in the global marketplace. Exploring a consumer perspective, the course exposes the student to the philosophies, concepts, and skills needed to manage the marketing function. Topics include an examination of the structure of the marketing process, including opportunity analysis, relationship marketing and consumer orientation, segmentation and the development of marketing strategies and the marketing mix, including E commerce with a focus on the use of information management to develop marketing strategies and tactics.
Examine the concepts and tools required to make financial decisions in a corporate setting. Study time value of money, introduction to valuation of financial securities, capital budgeting, and risk and return.
Prerequisite 1: ACC 101 and (MTH 110 or MTH 140 or MTH 141 or MTH 142). Business majors are required to take ECA 111 and ECA 112
*Must take MTH (0144)110- Precalculus for Business and Life Sciences before
Introduces organizational behavior, the social-scientific study of individuals and groups in work organizations. Organizational behavior deals with the changes occurring in today’s workplace, including changes in job design and organizational structure, multicultural diversification of the work force, and the increasing importance of work teams. Built on findings from psychology, social-psychology, sociology, and cultural anthropology, this course examines employee motivation and job satisfaction, factors influencing levels of job performance and psychological dimensions of the work environment. It also discusses personality differences, managerial effectiveness, and stress at work. Individual, group, and social impact on outcomes are studied.
Prerequisite 1: MGT 262
Be Prepared With Key Skills in Emergency Management
100% Online
2-Year Duration
30-120 Credits
In the emergency management concentration, you’ll gain state-of-the-art knowledge and learn best practices in all-hazards emergency preparedness and management.
Emergency Management Concentration Courses (5 courses from the list below in any order.)
Course prepares students to assume administrative positions within emergency service organizations and examines roles and responsibilities of administrators, management and leadership theory and practices, and common administrative functions. The purpose of the class is to provide an overview of these functions and the issues faced by emergency services managers.
Prerequisite 1: UEM 201
Course introduces the Federal, State and local laws that regulate emergency services, national standards influencing emergency services, standard of care, tort, liability, and a review of relevant court cases. The course offers an advanced look at the legal environment and ramifications of emergency services.
Prerequisite 1: UEM 201
Course is an introduction to the fiscal policies, procedures, and problems encountered in the administration of emergency service organizations. Specifically governmental entities, non-profit, tax based and volunteer organizations. Course is designed for non-accounting students who need to understand finance and accounting in order to participate in planning, control, and decision-making.
Prerequisite 1: UEM 201
Course is designed for EMS workers who are involved in developing an effective emergency planning system. This course will assist emergency management administrators in preparedness strategies, emergency planning, and assessment of resources and hazards. Emergency operation plans, resource inventory and plan testing and maintenance will be covered.
Prerequisite 1: UEM 201
Course provides the substance for understanding the Occupational Safety and Health laws that regulations, the regulatory process, and the research data and analyses required to promulgate or revise a law or regulation. The course presents a comprehensive program management approach to occupational safety and health issues for EMS department managers.
Prerequisite 1: UEM 201
Course provides an introduction to leadership and organizational theory in the context of emergency services. Students will examine and develop a range of skills in a number of interpersonal areas including conflict management, use of power, group dynamics and influence in order for them to become better leaders.
Prerequisite 1: UEM 201
Open a New World of Possibilities With an Online BA in Liberal Studies
By choosing the courses that interest you and learning essential skills in a variety of growing fields, you’ll set yourself up for a wide range of in-demand career options. Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared to further your career in an area you’re passionate about.
- The median annual wage for emergency management directors was $79,180 in 20221
- Employment in business and financial operations is projected to grow 8% from 2020 to 20302
Top Recognition for Adelphi University
Adelphi has been transforming lives with our unique approach to learning for more than 150 years. By welcoming students from around the globe, we’ve expanded our academic offerings and geographic reach, celebrating significant milestones and successful outcomes.
Adelphi University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, and our degree programs have received considerable recognition from numerous national publications and organizations such as U.S. News & World Report, The Princeton Review, Colleges of Distinction, Military Friendly and more:
Robust Career Services
As an online student, you will have access to comprehensive support through our Center for Career and Professional Development. Our team of career educators can prepare you for professional success through services like Handshake, recruitment programs and job fairs.
Program Outcomes and Skills Acquired
In this program, you’ll have the opportunity to pick and choose the courses that have the most practical applications for the future you want. You’ll learn important principles in a number of exciting fields and how to apply them in the real world.
What You’ll Learn
- Explain social science concepts, theories and perspectives through written, verbal and other relevant forms.
- Demonstrate understanding of major concepts, theories and findings in the social sciences.
- Apply disciplinary knowledge from the social sciences to contemporary issues affecting individuals and groups.
- Develop critical skills including critical thinking, written and verbal communication and critical analysis of the social world based on data collection, analysis and interpretation.
- Demonstrate understanding of major concepts, theories and findings in psychology.
- Articulate concepts, theories and perspectives in psychology through written, verbal and other relevant forms.
- Gain the foundational knowledge you need to pursue an advanced degree or career in business.
- Develop critical skills including critical thinking, written and verbal communication and critical analysis of the social world based on data collection, analysis and interpretation.
- Articulate concepts, theories and perspectives in business through written, verbal and other relevant forms.
- Expand or hone your knowledge and skills and position yourself for career advancement.
- Help your organization with emergency preparedness or make a career change.
- Articulate concepts, theories and perspectives in emergency management through written, verbal and other relevant forms.
Skills You’ll Gain
- Team Building
- Communication
- Business Analytics
- Strategic Management
- Leadership
- Negotiation
- Entrepreneurship
Faculty Spotlight
Carl Mirra
Carl Mirra is an Associate Professor of Curriculum & Instruction in the College of Education and Health Sciences at Adelphi University, who has also taught for roughly two decades in CPCS because he enjoys working with students across the lifespan.
Mirra was previously an assistant professor of American Studies at the State University of New York – Old Westbury. He holds an M.A., M.Phil., and Ph.D. from Columbia University. Mirra is the author of several books including Soldiers and Citizens: An Oral History of Operation Iraqi Freedom from the Battlefield to the Pentagon (Palgrave) and The Admirable Radical: Staughton Lynd and Cold War Dissent, 1945-1970 (Kent State University Press). His current projects include examining the life and work of historian Howard Zinn as well as FDNY Chief Edward Crocker’s role in regulating big business following the Triangle Shirtwaist factory fire in 1911. Mirra is also a volunteer firefighter in Nassau County, NY.
Get Support From Experienced Faculty
Our faculty are expert practitioners in their fields and are dedicated to supporting our students and helping them grow as learners. They take pride in working directly with students, which is made possible by our 11:1 student to faculty ratio. Through the course of your study at Adelphi, they’ll be here to give you guidance and help you with your questions so you’ll always feel supported.
Online Study at Adelphi University
By enrolling in Adelphi University’s online programs, you’re gaining access to a team of supportive faculty and top-notch student services. Online study at Adelphi includes:
Answers to Common Questions
Explore our FAQs to learn more about the BA in Liberal Studies program. Reach out to us for more information if your question is not included here.
You can earn the online Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies degree in as few as two semesters, although the average duration of the program is two to three years. Total duration depends on the number of transfer credits accepted as well as the prior learning assessment.
Total estimated tuition for the online Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies degree ranges from $14,250 to $57,000, depending on the number of credits needed. This figure does not include any fees or other expenses you may incur.
Applying is easy! You can start your application to the online Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies program by clicking here.
Yes, the Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies program accepts up to 90 transfer credits and a minimum of 60 credits are required for admission. You can find out more about admissions details on the program overview page.
Yes. The Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies program offers four unique concentrations, of which students are required to choose two:
- In the social sciences concentration, you’ll learn how societies function both past and present from a variety of fields, including economics, history, political science, sociology and more.
- In the psychology concentration, you’ll get an introduction to a variety of fundamental ideas and concepts, including interpersonal behavior, counseling and more.
- In the business concentration, you’ll learn the principles of business and see how they can be applied to work in many fields.
- In the emergency management concentration, you’ll gain state-of-the-art knowledge and learn best practices in all-hazards emergency preparedness and management.
The Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies is a versatile program that touches on a variety of practical skills over a wide range of topics. Graduates of this program go on to pursue careers in a number of exciting fields like education, counseling, business, emergency management and more.
Sources and Citations
**$475 cost per credit and total tuition apply to students enrolling for the Fall 2023 term and beyond. The current cost per credit for the program is $650
- “Emergency Management Directors,” Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved on November 9, 2023 from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/emergency-management-directors.htm
- “Business and Financial Occupations,” Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved on November 9, 2023 from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/home.htm
- “Budget Analysts,” Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved on November 9, 2023 from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/budget-analysts.htm
- “School and Career Counselors and Advisors,” Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved on November 9, 2023 from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/school-and-career-counselors.htm
- “Life, Physical, and Social Occupations,” Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved on November 9, 2023 from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/home.htm