Bachelor's
About Liberal Studies at CSUSB
At Cal State San Bernardino, the bachelor of arts in liberal studies is designed for students who want to become teachers. This program prepares you for Multiple-Subject Teaching Credential Programs in California, helping you build the knowledge and skills to teach K–12 students, including in classrooms serving English-language learners and select high school environments where one teacher covers multiple subjects.
If you’re interested in a broad liberal arts education but not planning to pursue teaching, consider the B.A. in Liberal Arts instead.
As a Liberal Studies major, you can choose from three concentrations:
- Pre-Credential General – Offers the flexibility to design a customized course of study, making it ideal for students planning to pursue a credential.
- Pre-Credential Spanish Studies – Prepares you for the Bilingual Added Authorization in the Multiple Subject Credential Program, making you eligible to teach in bilingual or Spanish-language classrooms.
- Credential-Integrated – Allows you to earn both your bachelor’s degree and teaching credential on an accelerated timeline at CSUSB.
Your coursework will span the arts and humanities, natural sciences and mathematics, social sciences, child development, and liberal studies — all aligned with California Commission on Teacher Credentialing standards. You’ll graduate with a well-rounded academic foundation and the knowledge needed to educate the next generation. For more information, visit the Liberal Studies website.
Careers in Liberal Studies
The demand for qualified teachers in Calif. continues to grow.
According to the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, the state saw an 11.2% decline in new teaching credentials issued from 2021–22 to 2022-23 — highlighting the need for passionate, well-prepared educators.
Teachers specializing in mathematics, science, bilingual education and special education are especially in demand, according to TEACH California.
With a B.A. in liberal studies from CSUSB, you’ll be ready to meet that need and make a meaningful impact in your community.
Sample Courses
Music in the Elementary Schools
Materials and objectives in teaching music at the elementary school, including specialized instrumental and choral programs, singing and listening activities, and the use of simple instruments appropriate to child growth and development. Field work is included. Formerly MUS 410. Semester Prerequisite: The student must have successfully passed Intro to MUS 2114 or have the consent of the instructor. Quarter Prerequisite: MUS 214 or consent of instructor.
Biology for Teachers
Survey of major areas of biology including cell biology, genetics, evolution, plant and animal anatomy and physiology, ecology, and behavior. Course content and practices are aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Specially designed for students interested in teaching grades K-8. Three hours lecture and three hours lab. Materials fee required. Satisfies GE B2/5B and B3/5B.
Physics and Astronomy in the Classroom
Basic concepts of physics and astronomy as related to the elementary and middle school classroom taught with in-class activities and experiments. Topics include mechanics, electricity and magnetism, optics, thermodynamics, and astronomy. Course content and practices are aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and specially designed for students interested in teaching grades K through 8. Formerly a combination of PHYS 100 and ASTR 311 or part of PHYS 3040 or PHYS 3050 and PHYS 3050L; credit may not be earned for this course and both PHYS 100 and ASTR 311 or PHYS 3040 or PHYS 3050.
Meet Professor Sunny Hyon, Ph.D.
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With more than 50 undergraduate degress at CSUSB, we offer a variety of programs that reflect the Coyotes' passion for learning. Check out where your curiosity will take you at CSUSB.
