As a Liberal Studies major, students build a broad, interdisciplinary foundation in the social sciences, humanities, and arts that prepares them for a wide range of meaningful and rewarding careers.
Graduates trained in the social sciences, humanities, and arts develop the human skills that employers consistently value and that technology cannot easily replace: critical thinking, effective communication, collaboration across difference, and the ability to navigate complexity and change. These transferable skills prepare students for impactful careers across education, public service, nonprofit leadership, and other professional fields.
Liberal Studies graduates are often leaders in their communities, whether guiding a classroom of elementary school students, supporting families and communities through public service, or managing organizations and programs that advance the public good. In California, graduates commonly hold job titles such as elementary teacher, educational administrator, nonprofit manager, operations manager, marketing manager, and project management specialist in sectors like education, government, and healthcare.
At UC Merced, Liberal Studies students can engage with a range of campus centers, programs, and experiential learning opportunities that enrich their academic experience and help them develop leadership skills beyond the classroom that carry into this wide range of careers.
Mario F. Souza Student Leadership Center
The Souza Leadership Center is a campus hub for undergraduate leadership programs and opportunities, including the Bobcat Leadership Seminar and the Yosemite Leadership Program, offering Liberal Studies majors applied experiences to connect interdisciplinary learning with leadership, collaboration, and community engagement. Explore their website to learn more and follow Souza Leadership Center on Instragram to keep up to date on programming and events.
Community Engagement Center
The Community Engagement Center connects students with local agencies and organizations through research and service experiences. The CEC also offers a Public Service and Leadership Certificate that can integrate coursework in the Liberal Studies major with direct community service experience. Explore their website to learn more and follow Community Engagement Center on Instagram to keep up to date on programming and events.
Leadership and Service Living Learning Community
First-year Liberal Studies majors can consider joining the Leadership and Service Living Learning Commnuity (LLC) on campus to explore leadership concepts, participate in service projects, build a network, and access special programming and support. Explore the LLC website to learn more.
UC Merced Student Career Center
For students looking for student employment opportunities, career exploration, and post-graduate career support, the UC Merced Student Career Center offers services, resources, and events to support undergraduate students in their career development. Lezley Jurgenson is a Certified Career Coach and the SSHA Career Specialist at the Career Center—feel encouraged to book an appointment with her to explore your professional interests and goals! Follow UC Merced Student Career Center on Instagram to keep up to date on programming and events.
