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Liberal Education

The Bemidji State University Liberal Education Program creates an environment whereby students of diverse backgrounds and abilities can acquire the confidence, knowledge, skills, and values necessary for effective and responsible participation in a changing global society. The mechanism for fulfilling the Liberal Education mission of Bemidji State University is a multi-discipline curriculum centered on two specific skill areas (Areas I and II) and five focus areas (Areas III through VII).

Recommended Quarter to Semester Course Substitutions

Students pursuing a bachelor's degree must take a minimum of 42 credits in the Liberal Education Program from the following areas:

• Area I: Written and Oral Communication (2 courses, 8 credits)
• Area II: Mathematical Reasoning (minimum 1 course, 3 credits)
• Area III: Focus on the Individual (minimum 3 courses, 6 credits)
• Area IV: Focus on the United States (minimum 3 courses, 6 credits)
• Area V: Focus on the World (minimum 3 courses, 6 credits)
• Area VI: Focus on the Physical and Biological World (minimum 2 courses, 7 credits)
• Area VII: Focus on the Environment (minimum 1 course, 3 credits)

A Liberal Education course may be used to meet requirements in Liberal Education and in a major. However, each course is counted once in the total semester credits applied to graduation requirements.

Most Liberal Education courses may be taken on a Pass/No Pass basis. However, if a student elects to take a Pass/No Pass option, the right to use that course in the major or minor field is forfeited. Students who are undecided on a major or minor should exercise caution in the use of Pass/No Pass for this reason. Note: ENGL 1001 and ENGL 1002 may NOT be taken Pass/No Pass.

A student who has received an Associate in Arts degree in Liberal Education from a regionally accredited college will have completed Liberal Education requirements at Bemidji State University. Completion of the Minnesota transfer curriculum (MnTC) at another Minnesota State Colleges and Universities institution or the University of Minnesota will also satisfy the BSU Liberal Education requirement.

The Liberal Education curriculum consists of seven areas that must be completed as stated in a degree candidate's program of study.