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Cal Poly Pomona

Our Programs

Liberal Studies Academic Options

Although there are five options within the Liberal Studies major, the General Studies option is usually the best option both for students wishing to be teachers and those interested in other careers. Within the General Studies option, you may prepare for a variety of careers, including elementary teaching, special education teaching, math teaching, child development (preschool) teaching (in conjunction with Mt. SAC), or you may pursue an interdisciplinary and eclectic program of courses – including one or more minors –tailored to your individual goals.

The General Studies option provides the most flexibility and greater course choice than the other options, even for those wishing to be teachers. Also, even in the General Studies option, students may complete a teaching credential as an undergraduate (similar to the “blended” or “integrated” program), though there are financial consequences to consider.

Your curriculum advisor is your best source of information about which classes to take to prepare you for your chosen life.

For those wishing to be teachers, and who are proficient in Spanish or an Asian language commonly spoken in Southern California, you may earn the Bilingual certificate in addition to your teaching credential.

Five options:

  1. General Studies, for students wishing a broad liberal arts education (does not provide classes leading directly to a teaching credential, but students in this option may pursue a teaching credential if they pass the appropriate subject matter and other examinations). *BCLAD in some Asian languages available through a CSU consortium.
  2. Pre-credential, for subject matter preparation for the multiple subjects teaching credential
  3. BCLAD Pre-Credential, for subject matter preparation for the multiple subjects teaching credential for bilingual (Spanish*) students
  4. BA/Credential (blended/integrated program), leading to the preliminary (Level 1) multiple subjects teaching credential
  5. BCLAD BA/Credential (blended/integrated program), leading to the preliminary (Level 1) multiple subjects teaching credential for bilingual (Spanish*) students.