Department of Liberal Studies

A Broad Foundation for Future Educators

The Liberal Studies program at Cal State Monterey Bay provides an interdisciplinary foundation for students who want to become educators.

Students explore the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences and the visual and performing arts while building the knowledge and skills needed to support learning in diverse classrooms. The program emphasizes critical thinking, cultural responsiveness and meaningful engagement with schools and communities.

Designed especially for students planning to teach in elementary or middle school, the program combines broad academic study with education-focused coursework and early field experiences that prepare students to begin a career in teaching.

Built for Future Teachers

The Liberal Studies degree is intentionally structured to meet California’s subject matter requirements for elementary educators.

By completing the required coursework, students demonstrate subject matter proficiency across key academic disciplines. Because the program fulfills these requirements, most graduates do not need to take the California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET) to demonstrate subject matter competence.

This integrated approach saves time and money while allowing students to focus on developing the skills and confidence needed to work with young learners.

Hands-On Experience in Schools and Communities

Practical experience is central to the Liberal Studies program.

Students participate in placements in local schools and community organizations, where they apply classroom learning while supporting children, families and educators. These experiences help students build professional skills, strengthen their confidence and gain a deeper understanding of the communities they will serve.

Career Pathways

A B.A. in Liberal Studies prepares students for careers that support learning, leadership and community engagement.

Many graduates pursue teacher credential programs and go on to become elementary school or bilingual educators, guiding and inspiring the next generation of learners. Others continue into graduate study or pursue careers in fields that value strong communication, interdisciplinary knowledge and cultural awareness.

Possible career pathways include:

• Elementary or middle school teaching
• Education and youth programs
• Community and nonprofit organizations
• Educational policy and advocacy
• Graduate study in education or related fields

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Liberal Studies program develop the knowledge and perspectives needed to support equitable and effective education.

Developing Educator

Students examine the responsibilities of educators across classroom, school, community, state and national contexts. They develop foundational teaching skills and apply educational theory to their emerging professional practice.

Diversity and Multicultural Scholar

Students analyze how social identities, cultural experiences and institutions shape education. They apply multicultural perspectives to support inclusive and equitable learning environments.

Innovative Technology Practitioner

Students use digital tools and emerging technologies for research, collaboration, communication and creative expression while exploring their role in teaching and learning.

Social Justice Collaborator

Students integrate academic knowledge, community engagement and reflective practice to advocate for equity and access in education.

Subject Matter Generalist

Students demonstrate competency across multiple academic disciplines and complete a coherent course of study that prepares them for teaching in California public schools.

Student Experience

"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

Learning Beyond the Classroom

Liberal Studies majors at Cal State Monterey Bay engage in civic learning, professional development and undergraduate research that prepares them for careers in education and community leadership.

Service Learning

Courses such as Service Learning for Social Change in Education connect classroom learning with real-world experience. Students work with schools and partner organizations across the Monterey Bay region while exploring ways to advocate for access, equity and justice in public education.

Senior Capstone

In their final year, students complete an independent research project focused on a contemporary issue in education. Working with a faculty mentor, students design a capstone experience aligned with their professional interests.

Each year, students present their projects at the Liberal Studies capstone festival, sharing their research and ideas with peers, faculty and the campus community.

Student Organizations

Students can connect with peers and build leadership skills through the CSUMB chapter of the Student California Teachers Association (SCTA). The organization offers educational programs, social events and networking opportunities that support students preparing for careers in teaching.