Generally speaking, the study of language arts is divided into five strands: reading, writing, speaking, listening and viewing. There are two additional components, that of literature and English language uses, that also figure prominently in the field. Most liberal arts colleges require foundation courses in the humanities or literature, composition and communication. Liberal studies students are often able to choose from a pool of language arts, communication and humanities courses to satisfy university requirements. Such a requirement has multiple advantages, regardless of future career plans.
According to the American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, mathematics is "the study of the measurement, properties, and relationships of quantities and sets, using numbers and symbols." Liberal arts universities have core requirements for all students in math and these requirements generally include a course or series of courses in algebra, calculus and/or trigonometry.
Usually, a liberal studies curriculum draws on the sciences, at least in part. Students who are majoring in liberal arts or liberal studies may have a pool of courses from which to choose, including Earth science, astronomy, environmental sciences, chemistry and physics.
The fields of visual and performing arts include art, drama and music. Those pursuing the field of liberal studies may have the option of delving further into specialties such as vocal studies, music theory or instrument-specific pursuits. In addition, they may be able to pursue an interest in theater and drama, sculpting and dance, or the varying aspects of artistic media to satisfy visual and performing arts requirements of a bachelor degree in liberal studies.
Social sciences encompasses a range of fields, including history, political science, geography, criminal justice, psychology, anthropology, philosophy and sociology. Liberal arts colleges usually have core requirements in social sciences for all students, and these requirements might include courses in world history, American history and introductory classes in one or more additional areas. Liberal studies majors are usually able to select from a large pool of courses to satisfy their bachelor degree requirements, which is useful for the student who will utilize the curriculum as a foundation for a future in law or graduate studies in the social sciences field.