Best Online Liberal Arts and Sciences Degrees

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The 35 Best Online Bachelor’s in Liberal Arts and Sciences will help you to see the world anew.

Best Online Bachelor's in Liberal Arts and Sciences

The world comprises so many constructs, theories, and systems. How do they connect, and how do they affect our behavior? How can we be better humans, and how do we influence others to be better, too? If these words resonate with you, you should consider studying liberal arts and sciences. 

Online Schools Report is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

What Is a Bachelor’s in Liberal Arts and Sciences Degree?

Liberal arts is an interdisciplinary study that examines many subjects. From literature and women’s studies to political science, liberal arts students learn how these fields work and how they intersect. 

The world isn’t isolated. In many areas like science, humans examine singular materials, and they try to reduce the number of variables affecting those materials. In our everyday life, though, it’s impossible to isolate one thing from another. For some people, it’s better to understand how everything comes together. That’s liberal arts, which asks: how do things affect each other, and how can we remain ahead of the curve? 

How Much Can You Earn with a Liberal Arts and Sciences Degree?

It depends on what you do with your degree. Liberal arts graduates have gone on to be everything from CEOs and politicians to journalists and publicists. The point of the degree is to make you diverse. It makes sense, then, that liberal arts students work in various fields.

Here are several top careers for liberal arts graduates, and their average base pay according to Glassdoor:

  • Economists make $97,811 a year
  • Sociologists make $78,593 a year
  • Public Relations Specialists make $44,836 a year
  • Social workers make $49,450 a year
  • Teachers make $42,579 a year

What Is Required for a Bachelor’s in Liberal Arts and Sciences Degree?

While pursuing one of these degrees, you should have an open mind, the willingness to feel challenged, and the courage to overcome challenges. As a liberal arts student, you will learn many new concepts. You will identify and understand some of them, while others may go over your head. As a liberal arts student, though, your job is to persevere.

Undergraduate programs will ask you for your official transcripts. Next, they’ll most likely ask for your ACT or SAT scores. They also might ask you for letters of recommendation. Finally, you’ll most likely have to write an admissions essay.

What Are the Best Bachelor’s in Liberal Arts and Sciences Degrees?

OSR uses six data points: three school-wide and three program-specific. For school-wide, OSR uses Student Satisfaction, Admission Rates, and the number of programs the school offers online. For program-specific, OSR checks the Median Debt of graduates from that program, how many degrees are offered within that program’s umbrella department, and what percentage of students at that school graduated from that department.

The six statistics are displayed by each school. The sliding bar under each statistic represents how that school compares to other US institutions. “Not reported” means a school did not release that information to the US Department of Education. A more detailed description of the OSR process can be found on the methodology page.

Excelsior College

Excelsior College

Quick Facts

  • Transfer up to 113 credits
  • Receive credit for military training
  • Students define their own programs
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

67%

Programs Offered Online

51

Median Debt

$10,806

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

37%

100%OSR Score

Excelsior College offers a unique program, requiring students to choose two depths or concentrations. Doing so, students are able to connect knowledge from two separate fields, practicing essential problem-solving skills and learning about the real world in the process. The program is 120 total credit hours, including the two depths, which requires 15 credits each.

Thomas Edison State University

Quick Facts

  • 120 total credit hours
  • Students must complete a capstone project
  • Students work in two or more disciplines
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

73%

Programs Offered Online

18

Median Debt

$12,867

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

21%

87%OSR Score

Thomas Edison State University offers a cutting-edge program that asks you to chart the development of two liberal arts subjects. An immersive online bachelor’s program, students will split their time between general education, liberal studies, and electives. Students will also come to understand the complex relationships governing liberal arts studies. 

Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Quick Facts

  • Students take four foreign language classes
  • Students choose a concentration area
  • 42 elective credit hours
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

77%

Acceptance Rate

80%

Programs Offered Online

19

Median Debt

$25,673

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

28%

82%OSR Score

Northwestern State University of Louisiana offers a curriculum filled with electives, including subjects such as humanities and social and behavioral science. Some concentration examples include Fine Arts, Theater, Addiction Studies, and Social Work. Advisers recommend extracurricular activities and supplementary courses throughout their studies.

University of Maryland Global Campus

Quick Facts

  • 120 total credit hours
  • Program accepts up to 90 transfer credits
  • Students can take courses in a hybrid format
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

73%

Programs Offered Online

31

Median Debt

$25,483

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

20%

79%OSR Score

The University of Maryland’s program emphasizes how humans and groups understand their existence and interact with others. Between art, religion, film, theater, literature, and philosophy, students learn about various aspects of the human condition. In the program, students will choose a political, economic, or cultural issue and chart its development.

University of Maine at Augusta

Quick Facts

  • Students take public speaking classes
  • Students choose a minor
  • Alumni include various CEOs
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

74%

Programs Offered Online

12

Median Debt

$23,039

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

22%

77%OSR Score

The University of Maine’s liberal studies program emphasizes the endless possibilities available to those with this degree. Among other fields, the school’s alumni have gone into business, education, health fields, government, and policy. This program focuses on the half dozen or more skills that will be crucial to your personal life and professional career.

Brandman University

Brandman University

Quick Facts

  • $500/credit
  • Students can choose a hybrid learning path
  • Focus on teaching
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

72%

Acceptance Rate

68%

Programs Offered Online

14

Median Debt

$26,200

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

19%

77%OSR Score

Brandman University’s online liberal studies program focuses on how teachers should educate others and how students learn. The program, which offers a teaching pre-credential, will give you confidence in the subjects most frequently taught in California schools. Some of these courses cover language arts, mathematics, human development, and health.

Antioch University Online

Quick Facts

  • Apply up to 75 transfer credits
  • Choose one of three concentration options
  • 120 total credit hours
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Programs Offered Online

5

Programs in Department

3

76%OSR Score

Students studying through Antioch University’s program will choose one of three concentrations: Individualized Studies, Leadership for Service and Change, or Literature and Creative Writing. If you’re joining Antioch University with transfer credits or out of community college, you can complete your studies in as few as 20 months. And you’ll leave an expert.

Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University

Quick Facts

  • 120 total credit hours
  • Students work in a team structure
  • Students need 2.0 GPA or higher to graduate
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

74%

Acceptance Rate

81%

Programs Offered Online

26

Median Debt

$17,418

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

11%

76%OSR Score

Northern Arizona University’s liberal arts program includes a major, the liberal studies core requirements, and general university requirements. Like most liberal arts programs, your studies will comprise many subject areas, languages, forms of learning, and upper-level coursework. Some students will also be comforted by a relatively low GPA requirement.

Wilmington University

Wilmington University

Quick Facts

  • Students must have 30 academic credits from another institution
  • Transfer up to 90 credits
  • Students choose from diverse topic areas
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

72%

Programs Offered Online

18

Median Debt

$23,164

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

6%

74%OSR Score

Have you at some point, recently or long ago, taken 30 credits or more before deciding that school wasn’t for you? Wilmington University concentrates its program on students who seek to complete their studies, not start them. Classes start every eight weeks, so if you feel ready, jump in to start learning!

Saint Leo University

Saint Leo University

Quick Facts

  • 120 total credit hours
  • 42 University Exploration credits
  • 33 credit major requirements
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

74%

Acceptance Rate

58%

Programs Offered Online

22

Median Debt

$30,829

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

19%

73%OSR Score

Saint Leo University’s online liberal studies program caters to all types of university students. Its classes are fascinating and include examples such as Environmental Studies: Creating Sustainable Societies, Cultural Anthropology, and Social and Cultural Foundations of Behavior. A well-respected program, Saint Leo alumni have gone on to become nonprofit organizational directors, journalists, and account executives.

University of Alaska Southeast

University of Alaska Southeast

Quick Facts

  • Courses include Alaskan languages
  • 120 total credits
  • Small student-to-faculty ratio
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

78%

Acceptance Rate

71%

Programs Offered Online

8

Median Debt

$16,181

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

8%

73%OSR Score

University of Alaska Southeast is unique because it offers extensive coursework in native Alaskan studies and languages. As an online bachelor’s in liberal arts student, you’ll choose a primary and a secondary course of study. Some primary studies include Alaska Native Languages, Anthropology, and History; secondary studies include Creative Writing, Sociology, Theater, and Environmental Sciences.

Utah State University

Quick Facts

  • 90 program credit hours
  • Two yearly start dates
  • $6,309 estimated annual tuition
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

74%

Acceptance Rate

89%

Programs Offered Online

7

Median Debt

$16,456

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

24%

73%OSR Score

One of the many notable aspects of Utah State University’s online liberal arts program is its low cost compared to similar online programs. The school accepts transfer students who have a 2.50 GPA and have completed 45 credits before admittance. An excellent program, the school’s graduates have become writers, editors, and public relations specialists.

Clayton State University

Clayton State University

Quick Facts

  • 120 credit hours
  • Students must graduate with a C average or higher
  • Students must complete 21 credits in higher-level courses
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

74%

Acceptance Rate

42%

Programs Offered Online

8

Median Debt

$29,534

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

14%

71%OSR Score

Clayton State University’s online liberal studies program includes everything from lower-level and cross-departmental classes to experiential learning capstones. Because of the school’s relatively low GPA requirement, this program suits busy parents, workers, or people who aren’t school-minded. Upon graduation, you can join fellow alumni in various career fields.

Arizona State University

Arizona State University

Quick Facts

  • 40 total classes
  • 7.5 weeks per class
  • 120 credit hours
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Acceptance Rate

63%

Programs Offered Online

45

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

8%

70%OSR Score

With short classes, affordable tuition, and a nationally-acclaimed online liberal arts program, Arizona State University is an excellent choice for prospective students. Students take a diverse set of classes from internationally recognized faculty members. Graduates have gone on to become everything from bank branch managers and database administrators to loan officers and interior designers.

Northwest Nazarene University

Quick Facts

  • $10,000 per year
  • Students can participate in on-campus events
  • Access to top-quality professors and vast academic resources.
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

79%

Acceptance Rate

73%

Programs Offered Online

7

Median Debt

$24,527

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

9%

70%OSR Score

Northwest Nazarene University’s online liberal studies program emphasizes the intersection between scholarly studies and our everyday lives. Students take 60 credits in either the humanities, mathematics and science, or social sciences. Students will divide the rest of their time between core classes and a vast range of electives.

Indiana University-East

Indiana University-East

Quick Facts

  • Students take First Year Seminar
  • Students must take a diverse range of courses
  • Required courses include Ethical Reasoning
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

80%

Acceptance Rate

70%

Programs Offered Online

11

Median Debt

$23,170

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

13%

69%OSR Score

At Indiana University East, students select a concentration in Arts and Humanities, Social and Behavioral Sciences, or Natural Science and Mathematics. Within their focus, students can take the courses and electives that interest them most. Students must take 30 credits or more in higher-level classes, which will challenge them and teach them crucial skills.

Limestone College

Limestone College

Quick Facts

  • 15 credit hours in the Professional Studies or Natural Science Division
  • Students must have at least two academic divisions
  • 123 credit hours
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Acceptance Rate

50%

Programs Offered Online

14

Median Debt

$29,748

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

10%

68%OSR Score

Limestone College’s liberal studies bachelor’s program requires students to step outside their comfort zone. Students must take writing-intensive courses, 30 hours of higher-level classes, and Professional Studies Division Courses. Limestone College alumni have gone on to work in a wide variety of fields, including journalism, business, and entertainment.

Montana State University-Billings

Quick Facts

  • 120 credit hours
  • Students must complete a minimum of 36 upper-division credits
  • Students complete a concentration of 30 credits
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Programs Offered Online

7

Median Debt

$17,887

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

10%

68%OSR Score

Montana State University Billings’ program provides students with ample space to organize their credits and complete their studies. Possible concentrations include: Management, Public Relations, Mass Communication, Public Relations, and many more. If you’re ready to graduate, begin your studies today!

Ashford University

Ashford University

Quick Facts

  • Five-week courses
  • Up to 90 transfer credits
  • Option to take one class at a time
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

69%

Programs Offered Online

54

Median Debt

$32,742

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

1%

68%OSR Score

Do you want to understand the values that influence interactions among people, groups, or nations? Ashford University offers a fantastic online liberal arts program that emphasizes our cultural, social, political, and environmental interactions. If you seek to acquire the skills needed to work with humans and excel in your workplace, Ashford University is the school for you.

Missouri Baptist University

Quick Facts

  • Apply up to 96 existing credits toward your degree
  • $5,136 per semester
  • Four classes per semester
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

72%

Acceptance Rate

55%

Programs Offered Online

10

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

1%

68%OSR Score

Missouri Baptist University’s excellent liberal arts program caters to students who want to advance their careers, continue to graduate school, and increase their earning potential. The school’s graduates have worked in such fields as technical writing, human resources, and journalism. If you seek a fantastic, interdisciplinary education, MBU is your best option.

Bay Path University

Bay Path University

Quick Facts

  • Program for adult women
  • Plan a unique academic path
  • Synthesize information across topics
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Acceptance Rate

63%

Programs Offered Online

12

Median Debt

$18,654

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

7%

67%OSR Score

Many women struggle with a co-ed learning environment or simply prefer female camaraderie, whether on-campus or online. Bay Path University offers a women-only learning space that caters to women’s ideal academic styles and preferences. Available in-person, online, or both, Bay Path University is an excellent school that has produced graduates who have excelled in many career areas.

University of Illinois at Springfield

University of Illinois- Springfield

Quick Facts

  • 30 hours of transfer credit required before admission
  • Writing-intensive curriculum
  • Students choose degree plans
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

73%

Acceptance Rate

52%

Programs Offered Online

11

Median Debt

$19,952

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

4%

67%OSR Score

A degree completion program, University of Illinois Springfield provides students an excellent opportunity to gain a marketable degree. Here, students complete a vast range of fascinating liberal arts courses. Enrolled students must take one class in each of the following topics: identity, work, nature, institutions, language, heritage, and art. 

Wichita State University

Wichita State University

Quick Facts

  • Students have opportunities for applied learning
  • Career Exploration options
  • Option to gain Library Research Badge
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Acceptance Rate

94%

Programs Offered Online

15

Median Debt

$25,592

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

10%

67%OSR Score

Wichita State University is a forward-thinking institution that concentrates on applied learning and research opportunities. Because the major focuses on real-life skills, many of your studies will require hands-on exploration. Some of the available majors within Wichita State University’s liberal arts school include Aging Studies, Ethnic Studies, Geography, Religion, and German. 

Rogers State University

Quick Facts

  • 120 credit hours
  • 41 credit hours in general education
  • 45 credit hours in degree program requirements
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

72%

Programs Offered Online

4

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

4%

66%OSR Score

Rogers State University’s BA in Liberal Arts program caters to creative and critical thinkers who seek a greater understanding of the world around us. As a liberal arts student, you can choose between the English and Global Humanities options. Regardless of your path, this program will set you up for success. 

Westfield State University

Quick Facts

  • Scholarship opportunities
  • One accelerated two-week winter section
  • Students have an academic advisor
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

72%

Acceptance Rate

85%

Programs Offered Online

7

Median Debt

$21,339

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

6%

66%OSR Score

Westfield State University’s liberal studies program chiefly caters to students who have already completed some portion of their studies. This degree, however, is not for every Westfield State University liberal studies student. Before enrolling, an advisor will have to approve your chosen academic path as a viable online learning option. 

William Peace University

Quick Facts

  • Internship program
  • Build a personalized curriculum
  • Choose a minor or concentration
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

79%

Acceptance Rate

59%

Programs Offered Online

9

Median Debt

$27,558

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

9%

65%OSR Score

William Peace University’s liberal studies degree emphasizes real-world applications, requiring students to hold an internship during their studies. The school requires students to take two critical thinking seminars, plus courses in English, fine arts, foreign languages, natural sciences, and social sciences. This school suits students who seek a combination of research and real-life experience.

University of Memphis

Quick Facts

  • 120 credit hours
  • Individualized program of study
  • 24 hours of upper-division classes
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

76%

Acceptance Rate

85%

Programs Offered Online

18

Median Debt

$32,627

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

6%

65%OSR Score

The University of Memphis’ Bachelor of Liberal Studies program suits students who can’t find an appropriate major and want to customize their own academic path. Between thematic and coordinated studies, core classes, and electives, students will excel in this program. Unique among liberal arts programs, students can earn college credits through work experience and professional training. 

Crown College

Quick Facts

  • Christian Studies Core
  • 125-131 credit hours
  • Customizable study path
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

70%

Acceptance Rate

51%

Programs Offered Online

10

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

5%

64%OSR Score

Crown College offers an excellent Christian liberal studies degree program for the religiously-inclined or interested individual. As a student, you’ll divide your studies between Christian studies, liberal arts core classes, your major core, and electives. If you’ve completed extensive undergraduate coursework in an unrelated discipline, don’t worry: Crown College will accept your credits, regardless of which classes you took. 

Pennsylvania State University-World Campus

Pennsylvania State University-World Campus

Quick Facts

  • Ranked in the top ten for online degrees by U.S. News & World Report.
  • Student-designed major
  • Study with highly regarded faculty
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Acceptance Rate

67%

Programs Offered Online

42

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

6%

64%OSR Score

Penn State University is known for many things, including its internationally acclaimed liberal studies program. Whether you are near or far, you can enroll in their excellent program online. Your personalized curriculum will comprise a balance of electives, core classes, and courses in your preferred concentration. 

Purdue University Global-Davenport Campus

Quick Facts

  • 15-18 hours per week
  • 180 credits required
  • $371 per credit
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Programs Offered Online

34

Median Debt

$27,919

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

1%

64%OSR Score

While Purdue University is far from the cheapest liberal arts program option, that shouldn’t make you disregard the program, especially if you have the money. The school allows you to apply credits from prior institutions, military training, or other experiential learning toward degree requirements. Given the value of a Purdue degree, you should consider this option. 

California State University-Chico

Quick Facts

  • Work with K-8 pupils
  • An opportunity for depth of study in special education
  • No online teaching credential program
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Acceptance Rate

68%

Programs Offered Online

4

Median Debt

$16,734

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

4%

64%OSR Score

Are you an aspiring K-8 school teacher who has some university credits? If so, CSU Chico, which has an immersive teaching program and an excellent ability to accommodate your needs, may be your best choice. If teaching in California is the right career path for you, look no further.

Columbus State University

Columbus State University

Quick Facts

  • Humanities and Social Science track
  • Optional Military and Global Issues track
  • 123 credit hours
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

76%

Acceptance Rate

53%

Programs Offered Online

7

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

3%

64%OSR Score

Columbus State University requires students to take courses in four principal subjects: essential skills; institutional options; humanities; and math, science, and technology. Besides that, you’ll take courses in your concentration, a wellness requirement, a writing group, and more. Given its diverse course offerings, this is an excellent program for a multidisciplinary student.

Endicott College

Quick Facts

  • Several unique concentrations
  • 126 credit hours
  • Aesthetic Awareness & Creative Expression course
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

74%

Acceptance Rate

81%

Programs Offered Online

6

Median Debt

$18,580

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

7%

63%OSR Score

The Van Loan School at Endicott College excels in specific, yet useful courses. In their undergraduate program, students can concentrate their studies through courses such as Educational Studies, Trauma Studies, Integrative Health, Homeland Security Studies, or Montessori Learning. If any of these courses call your attention, enroll here because these are courses you’re unlikely to find elsewhere.

Northeastern University Professional Advancement Network

Northeastern University Professional Advancement Network

Quick Facts

  • 45% of students receive aid
  • 120 semester hours required
  • Minimum 2.00 GPA required
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Programs Offered Online

14

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

5%

63%OSR Score

An excellent program, students at Northeastern University take foundational courses in English, mathematics, information technology, and philosophy. Students supplement their core study with classes in the humanities, social sciences, science. If you’re unsure what to study and you want to dabble in many disciplines, Northeastern is an excellent choice.

Campbellsville University

Quick Facts

  • Eight weeks per course
  • 120 credit hours
  • $399 per credit
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

76%

Acceptance Rate

69%

Programs Offered Online

10

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

2%

62%OSR Score

Campbellsville University offers nine concentrations: Sociology, Psychology, Political Science, History, Economics, Mass Communication, Criminal Justice Administration, Christian Studies, and Business Administration. Each concentration is 21 credit hours, allowing plenty of time for students to enroll in classes that pertain to their major or personal interests. While Campbellsville University is last on our list, it’s still a fantastic option.

Online Schools Report is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.