Definition

A general degree program with a particularly broad range of choice and opportunity for exploration because you do not declare a major study area. Note: Liberal Studies was formerly named Non-Major.

Why study it?

To pursue Arts subject areas without specializing. Find out what one recent graduate has to say.

The Waterloo Way

You can tailor a three- or four-year Liberal Studies program to suit your needs and interests. Your program must meet the General Liberal Studies degree requirements but the departmental requirements of a major do not apply to you. Many Liberal Studies students use their elective courses to explore interdisciplinary options such as Legal Studies and Criminology, Speech Communication, Women's Studies, International Studies and much more.

Liberal Studies grads at work

• Director of Nursing, St. Thomas General Hospital, St. Thomas, Ontario
• Training Consultant, Algonquin College, Renfrew, Ontario
• Illustrator, Creative Options, Waterloo
• Marketing Officer, Statistics Canada, Ottawa
• Editorial Assistant, Homemaker Magazine, Toronto

How you can study it

Student with interests in a variety of disciplines may choose an individual course of study rather than major in a single discipline.

A Liberal Studies (Three- or Four-Year General) academic plan must be arranged through the Arts Undergraduate Office in the Psychology, Anthropology, and Sociology building, room 2439.

Three-Year General Liberal Studies

Continuation in this academic plan requires a cumulative overall average of 60% and a cumulative average of 65% in Arts Faculty courses.

Eligibility for graduation in the Three-Year General Liberal Studies academic plan includes fulfillment of the following requirements:

1. Successful completion of a minimum of 15 academic course units including Faculty of Arts Group A and B requirements (admitted prior to Fall 2008) or BA Breadth requirements (admitted beginning Fall 2008) with a cumulative overall average of at least 60% and a cumulative average of at least 65% in Arts Faculty courses.
2. A minimum of 8.0 academic course units beyond the 100-level,
3. A minimum of 1.0 academic course unit at the 300-level or above,
4. A minimum of 7.5 academic course units in the Faculty of Arts.

Four-Year General Liberal Studies

Continuation in this academic plan requires a cumulative overall average of 60% and a cumulative average of 65% in Arts Faculty courses.

Eligibility for graduation in the Four-Year General Liberal Studies academic plan includes fulfillment of the following requirements:

1. Successful completion of a minimum of 20 academic course units including Faculty of Arts Group A and B requirements (admitted prior to Fall 2008) or BA Breadth requirements (admitted beginning Fall 2008) with a cumulative overall average of at least 60% and a cumulative average of at least 65% in Arts Faculty courses.
2. A minimum of 12.5 academic course units beyond the 100-level,
3. A minimum of 2.0 academic course units at the 300-level or above,
4. A minimum of 12.5 academic course units in the Faculty of Arts.

Note: Students enrolled in a Liberal Studies academic plan are not eligible to pursue a minor; they may, however, elect to pursue an option.

Admission requirements

Apply to: Honours Arts (for full-time studies)

Required courses: Grade 12U English (a final grade of at least 70% is required)

Note: Grade 12U courses unless otherwise specified; minimum requirements: 6 Grade 12U or M courses, including all required courses.
 

Other required documentation & notes

About the Admission Information Form

Admission average(s): Mid-70s
Note: Admission averages are based on previous years' entering classes.

English Language Requirements: English Language Requirements

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Mark Sharratt - BA 2007, Liberal Studies

My student life experience was one that I will never forget. I was lucky enough to have a great family environment that encouraged me to take advantage of everything that Waterloo had to offer.

For example, the extensive intramural programs that were offered at UW allowed me to meet a lot of friends that I will carry with me beyond my years at university. I found that getting involved with the UW community was the best way to enhance my experience.

Looking back on my university career I found that the key to success was balance! It was important for me to work hard but it was also important to get involved and feel part of the University. This gave me a sense of connection and satisfaction at the end of my UW career. The connection with UW that I have established has helped me grow as a person and will aid me as I enter into the working world!

I really enjoyed my experience with Liberal Studies. At the beginning of my university career, I struggled to find a career path that I wanted to pursue. As a result, I became frustrated and questioned whether I would be able to survive at the university level. In my second year, I discovered the Liberal Studies program and that changed everything for me!

The great thing about the Liberal Studies program is that it allows you to take a variety of courses without committing to one specific field. This suited my needs because I did not know exactly what I wanted to pursue. I am now extremely satisfied with my degree because I feel as though I have a well-rounded education.

Once I enter into the work force, I will be able to bring a variety of knowledge to the table. If I happen to switch careers at any point, I will always have something to offer my new employers as opposed to one specific field of study.