Liberal Studies

Welcome to our Department! 

Liberal Studies is the 'Elementary Education' Major at CSULB and is home to students who wish to pursue one of two undergraduate program pathways: a B.A. in Liberal Studies (BA), or in our Integrated Teacher Education Program (ITEP) with the Multiple Subject Credential embedded into Senior Year. Students in the ITEP pathway may choose to either pursue their BA and Multiple Subject Credential, or they may pursue the Urban Dual Credential Program (UDCP) pathway which includes an Education Specialist Credential as well within a 5-year program. Students in either of these programs can also earn a Bilingual Authorization alongside, if desired. Information on these program pathways within Liberal Studies is located throughout our website.

We pride ourselves on offering rigorous coursework with committed faculty, early clinical experiences in local elementary and middle schools, and hands-on advising that begins even before you arrive to campus. We have many pathways through our program, from B.A to Credentialing, and we invite you to explore them with us!

You are welcome here and we encourage you to get involved. The Liberal Studies Student Association (LSSA) meets several times per semester and is a great place to meet and socialize with peers. The College of Education Student Association (COESA) is open to Liberal Studies students as well as well as other students in the college's many graduate programs. Aside from student organizations, the Department hosts events for our students, including our Annual "Back-To-School" Events for incoming students and their families, as well as our annual Graduation Celebration on the day of the Commencement Ceremony on campus. And we are happy to announce the beginning of a new support for students, our Peer Mentors, who will be a vital asset in continuing to build a strong student community.

We welcome you to explore our program, as well as these amazing opportunities for future educators. Go Beach! Go Teach!

Jessica Zacher Pandya

Liberal Studies Department Chair