What Can You Do with a Liberal Studies Degree? Employers Want Liberal Arts Graduates

felt graduation cap and diploma resting on a keyboard

A degree in liberal studies allows you to translate skills and interests to match the career you want to make.

Surveys by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) show that most hiring managers care more about a job candidate’s skills than they do about a college major.1 The skills you will learn getting a degree in liberal studies will help make you a most-wanted candidate in the job market.

According to a report from Emsi and the Strada Institute for the Future of Work, 82% of liberal arts majors held jobs that earned them an average salary of $55,000.2

Kent State University is one of six institutions in Ohio to offer the Online Master of Liberal Studies (MLS) degree, but the only one that allows students to take courses from any college or school in the university. A choose your own adventure to the career of your choice.

What Career Opportunities exist with a Master’s Degree in Liberal Studies?

The great thing about a liberal studies education is that it doesn’t just prepare you for one career. Instead, you learn skills applicable to many different careers. You get to choose!

Solid writing and communication skills are paramount to most positions, and the critical-thinking skills you learn can be applied to any field that requires analytical thought, such as business or education.3

Possible career areas include the following:

  • Advertising manager
  • Archivist
  • Business analysis
  • College recruiter
  • Education administration
  • Editor
  • Fundraiser
  • Graphic designer
  • Human resources specialist
  • Journalist
  • Musician
  • Nonprofit organization director
  • Photographer
  • Politician
  • Public relations specialist
  • Publicist
  • Sales and marketing
  • Social worker
  • Translator/Interpreter
  • Urban planner/city manager
  • Writer

Keep in mind that this is not an all-inclusive list and there are many career options with a degree in liberal studies.

Kent State University Master of Liberal Studies

The Online Master’s Degree in Liberal Studies provides students with a unique opportunity to study at the graduate level in fields that are of interest and use to the individual. Under the guidance of the Program Director, students select courses from across the university to form their own individualized and integrated program of study.

For more information on Kent State’s Online Master of Liberal Arts, visit https://onlinedegrees.kent.edu/degrees/master-of-liberal-studies.


Sources:

1 Retrieved on April 6, 2021, from https://www.bls.gov/careeroutlook/2007/winter/art01.pdf
2 Retrieved on April 6, 2021, from https://www.bestcolleges.com/blog/is-a-liberal-arts-degree-worth-it/#:~:text=Undergraduates%20learn%20to%20make%20persuasive,%2C%20and%20creative%20problem%2Dsolving
3 Retrieved on April 6 2021, from https://learn.org/articles/What_is_Liberal_Studies.htm

The editorial team at Kent State Online is composed of dedicated professionals with expertise in higher education, digital marketing, and content strategy. Our mission is to create insightful, engaging, and informative content that empowers prospective students to make informed decisions about advancing their education and careers.
Latest Blogs
As a music educator, your passion for teaching and inspiring students is at the heart of your work. However, if you want to expand your impact beyond the classroom, pursuing a Master of Music in Music Education can provide the tools and opportunities needed to step into leadership roles within schools, districts, and beyond.
In an era where education is changing rapidly, professionals seeking to make a meaningful impact in their communities require advanced knowledge and skills that fit into their busy lives. Kent State University’s 100% online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Cultural Foundations provides the perfect blend of flexibility and impact, empowering students to explore the intersections of education, social justice, and cultural awareness—on their own schedule.
In today’s technology-driven world, cybercrime is on the rise, and organizations across industries are in urgent need of skilled professionals who can prevent, investigate, and mitigate digital threats. If you’re looking to pursue a career at the intersection of technology and criminal justice, Kent State University’s 100% online Bachelor of Science in Cybercriminology equips students with the essential skills to thrive in this growing field.
Explore Our Online Programs
Find a Program
Online Minors
Online Non-Degree Graduate Licensure Programs
Get Started
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Center for Adult Veteran Services
Approximately 1,500 international students from 100 countries are enrolled at Kent State University. We’re excited to have you join us, and our international admission team is here to help you every step of the way.
About Kent State Online
Contact Us
Tuition and Costs
Meet Our Faculty
Contact Us