Department of Liberal Studies

Liberal Studies is the undergraduate pathway to a teaching career at CSUMB.

You’ll gain broad knowledge across disciplines while also completing coursework in education. The program emphasizes critical thinking, cultural responsiveness, and preparation for work in schools and communities.

Service and Community Engagement

You’ll complete placements in schools and community organizations, where you’ll apply classroom knowledge while supporting children, families, and educators. These experiences give you practical preparation and confidence to step into professional roles.

Career Outcomes

A Liberal Studies degree prepares you for a future in education and beyond. Most graduates pursue careers as elementary school teachers or bilingual educators, using their training to guide and inspire the next generation of learners. Many continue on to credential programs or graduate study, building advanced expertise for teaching and leadership. Others take their skills in communication, critical thinking, and cultural responsiveness into education-related fields that focus on equity and advocacy in schools and communities.

"CSUMB was pivotal in setting up my career. I was able to have coffee with my professor and ask questions and learn more about an assignment. That feels like something a teacher who was teaching 200 students wouldn’t have time to do.”

— Kim Cornfield

Student Groups and Support

The department encourages students to connect and grow outside the classroom. Involvement in education-related student organizations, such as the Student California Teachers Association (ASCTA),  helps you build leadership skills, find peer support, and strengthen your preparation for a teaching career. These groups create a sense of community while giving you opportunities to apply your passion for education.