The Liberal Studies, B.A. program will begin accepting new first-year and transfer students beginning Fall 2026. More information about admissions pathways can be found below. Continuing students interested in declaring a Liberal Studies major should connect with their academic advisor.
Liberal Studies, B.A. Admissions Overview View the Liberal Studies, B.A. Brochure
First-Year Students
Current high school students considering applying to the Liberal Studies program are very welcome to reach out to faculty advisor Prof. Catherine Koehler and schedule a zoom session to learn more about our major program and student opportunities. High school faculty and counselors who are interested in connecting their students and classrooms are also encouraged to reach out.
Learn More About Undergraduate Admissions
Transfer and Returning Students
Liberal Studies is one of UC Merced’s most transfer-friendly majors and is designed to accommodate a wide range of academic pathways and prior educational experiences. The program’s flexible curriculum is designed to integrate transfer coursework and recognize the varied routes students take to complete their degree. With multiple options for shaping an individualized course of study and dedicated advising support, the major provides clear pathways for planning, progress, and timely graduation.
Learn More About Transfer Admissions
Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG)
UC Merced offers guaranteed admission for eligible transfer students. To qualify for TAG for Liberal Studies, you must:
- Be enrolled full-time in a California Community College
- Maintain a minimum 2.8 GPA
- Complete the minimum English eligibility requirements for admission
- Complete the minimum math eligibility requirements for admission
- Complete 60 UC-transferable units (30 units at the time of TAG application)
- Complete one UC-transferable course in Social Sciences
- Complete one UC-transferable Humanities & Arts
Merced College and UC Merced Cross-Campus Enrollment
The MC2UCM Cross-Campus Enrollment Program supports Merced Community College students seeking to enroll in UC Merced courses, with MCC tuition rates and financial aid. Admitted MCC transfer students can also enroll in summer session prior to their matriculation to UC Merced in the fall. MCC students interested in cross-campus enrollment can consider taking LBST 001 or other desired coursework. To learn more or complete your application, connect with Merced Promise Program Advisor MJ Jimenez at mjimenez58@ucmerced.edu.
UC Merced Degree Completion Program
If you were previously enrolled at UC Merced or another four-year college and had to pause your studies, UC Merced’s Degree Completion Program can support your return to the university. Connect with a DCP advisor to learn more about re-admission and how the Liberal Studies, B.A. can help you build on prior credit and finish strong.
Make an Appointment with a Re-Entry Advisor
