I chose SUNY Empire for the ability to customize my degree program and take courses
online.
Earn a Combined B.A. or B.S. and an M.A. in Liberal Studies
At SUNY Empire, you can earn your bachelor’s in one of three programs and a master’s in liberal studies at the same time — saving you time, money, and accelerating your path to professional advancement.
This combined bachelor’s and master of arts program gives you the freedom to design a curriculum around your interests in the humanities, social sciences, and cultural studies. It’s ideal for critical thinkers, creatives, and community leaders who want to deepen their understanding of complex ideas and issues while developing marketable skills in communication, research, and analysis. The online M.A. in Liberal Studies opens doors to careers in education, nonprofit leadership, advocacy, policy, and more.
Choose one of three combined degree pathways:
- B.A. or B.S. in Historical Studies to M.A. in Liberal Studies
- B.A. or B.S. in Cultural Studies to M.A. in Liberal Studies
- B.A. or B.S. in The Arts to M.A. in Liberal Studies
Jump to
Our team can help you prepare for the next step in your career.
Combined B.A./B.S. and M.A. in Liberal Studies
Next term starts
Fall 2025
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Course List: -
The combined program includes 142 total credits — 12 of which are graduate-level courses taken during your undergraduate studies and count toward both degrees. After earning your B.A. or B.S., you’ll complete the remaining 18 credits for the M.A. in Liberal Studies.
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The four graduate courses that will be taken during undergraduate study are:
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LACS 6005
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LACS 6010
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LACS 6015
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Models of Critical Inquiry (Choose one): LACS 6020 Models of Critical Inquiry: Art Aesthetics & the Body OR LACS 6025 Models of Critical Inquiry: Landscapes of Learning OR LACS 6027 Models of Critical Inquiry: How We Know OR LACS 6030 Models of Critical Inquiry: Relationships to the Past - History & Culture OR LACS 6035 Models of Critical Inquiry: Science & Society
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Ready to Apply?
The deadline for the Fall 2025 term is August 1. How to Apply
Expand Your Mind and Your Career Potential
What you'll learn
- Conduct interdisciplinary research
- Apply theory to real-world issues
- Communicate across diverse perspectives
- Think critically and creatively
Shape a Career That Reflects Your Passions
These combined degree pathways equip you with transferable skills for meaningful roles in a variety of fields. Possible careers include:
- Educator or academic advisor
- Nonprofit director
- Communications specialist
- Policy researcher
- Community organizer or advocate
Interested in a Combined B.S. or B.A. and M.A. Degree? Start Here
1
Take the First Step to a Combined Degree in Liberal Studies
We're here to support you every step of the way, making your journey to a degree as smooth as possible. Our dedicated advisors provide the guidance and information
you need to make confident choices and move closer to your goals.
Request Info
2
Check for Prior Learning Credits
Put your past experience toward your degree. Use transfer credits, work experience, or life skills to get a head start, save money, and earn your degree faster.
Normal Program Length
Your Prior Learning
Your Prior Learning
3
Apply for Your Combined Degree Pathway
Make sure you have all the admissions requirements and complete your application to be ready for our next term!
Next start term
Fall 2025
Deadline to apply
August 1
Start Your Degree
as soon as September 2, 2025.
Interested in a Combined Degree Pathway?