Career Area: Liberal Arts & Sciences
Program: Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts & Sciences
Campus(es): Winona/Red Wing/Online
Major Details
A well-rounded education with a range of coursework in the arts, humanities, mathematics, and sciences provides the basis for lifelong learning. By earning an Associate of Arts degree in Liberal Arts & Sciences at Minnesota State College Southeast, you will gain a credential you can take with you to transfer into a four-year university program as a college junior.
The study of liberal arts and sciences isn't just about memorizing facts -- it's learning how to learn, so you will be prepared to adapt to an ever-changing world. You are not training for a specific job, but gaining the communications and reasoning skills that will enhance your career opportunities in any area you might pursue in the future.
Workforce readiness
There is an increasing national need for all working-age adults to possess at least two years of higher education. Our region's workforce communities have indicated that they are seeking "well-rounded" individuals who possess strong critical thinking, problem solving, and communications skills. With an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts and Sciences you will be better qualified to pursue your career options.
Students can finish an Associate of Arts degree within four semesters at MSC Southeast. All essential courses are offered every semester and the college offers evening classes, online classes and hybrid classes. A full array of Liberal Arts and Sciences courses are available at both the Red Wing and Winona campuses.
Courses
Associate of Arts degree general requirements
A minimum of 60 semester credits.
A minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0.
A minimum cumulative MnTC GPA of 2.0.
A minimum of 20 semester credits applied toward the degree must be taken at Minnesota State College Southeast.
Completion of the specific degree requirements below:
Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MnTC) Requirements - A minimum of 40 credits to complete all 10 goal areas. A MnTC course may satisfy more than one goal area, however, the credits only count once.CORE GOAL AREAS:
Goal 1 Communication (Three courses) - 9 credits
ENGL1215 – College Writing 1 (3 credits)
ENGL2525 – College Writing 2 (3 credits)
COMM1218 - College Speech OR COMM1228 Interpersonal Communications (3 credits)
Goal 2 Critical Thinking (met when 40 MnTC credits satisfying all 10 goal areas has been completed)
Goal 3 Natural Science (Two science courses from at least two different subject areas. One course must have a traditional lab and the other must have a traditional lab or lab-like experience.) - 6-8 credits
Goal 4 Mathematical/Logical Reasoning (One course) - 3 credits
Goal 5 History and the Social and Behavioral Sciences (Three courses from at least two different subject areas) - 9 credits
Goal 6 The Humanities and Fine Arts (3 courses from at least two different subject areas) - 9 credits
THEME GOAL AREAS:
Goal 7 Human Diversity (One course) - 3 credits
Goal 8 Global Perspective (One course) - 3 credits
Goal 9 Ethical and Civic Responsibility (One course) - 3 credits
Goal 10 People and the Environment (One course) -3 credits
Total minimum credits to complete the MnTC ten goal areas: 40 credits
In addition to completing the MnTC, the remaining 20 credits will include:
Health and Wellness Requirement, 2 credits
Technology Requirement, 2 credits
Additional Electives, 16 credits (select coursework appropriate to the student’s anticipated transfer program)
Cost
| Approximate Tuition/Fees: | $12,414 |
|---|---|
| Minimum Tool Cost: | N/A |
| Books/Supplies: | $500 |
| Estimated Total: | $12,914 |
Career Opportunities
An Associate of Arts degree is the foundation of your future education. This degree is designed for transfer to 4-year colleges and universities. However, the lifelong skills and abilities mastered in the Associate of Arts program will serve students who may enter the workforce directly after completing the degree.
Use the MN DEED Career and Education Explorer Data Tool to learn about wages, job growth, and much more in this career field.
Outcomes
Effectively read, write, speak, and listen in formal English
Demonstrate self and group awareness
Apply appropriate use of technology to increase digital literacy
Gather, analyze, and use information to solve problems and support opinions
Important Documents
A.A. Degree or Transfer Curriculum Planning Worksheet (PDF)
Highlights
Build skills and knowledge that will remain relevant today, tomorrow, and beyond
Gain high-demand critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills
Meet general education requirements needed for transfer
Choose electives that are appropriate for your planned transfer program
Small class sizes and dedicated faculty
Instructors
Liberal Arts and Sciences courses are taught by our talented and dedicated instructors, all with your success in mind. All MSC Southeast Liberal Arts and Sciences faculty have earned a master's degree or higher. See individual instructor biographies below.