Do you aspire to be well educated, versatile and intellectually agile? To move seamlessly between disciplines of scientific interest? To become a bridge builder between science and practice, as a global citizen? Then you should consider studying Liberal Arts and Sciences.
A Unique Blend of Liberal Arts & Sciences at EUC
A key component of Liberal Arts & Sciences (LAS) is that it aims to impart a broad general knowledge and further the development of general intellectual capacities and academic skills. At the same time it allows for the opportunity to specialize in one particular field of study, termed a Major, with the possibility of supporting that with another field, termed a Minor. Another characteristic of the European model of Liberal Arts & Sciences, which is highly prominent at EUC, is the intense involvement of lecturers and tutors in the personal and academic development of our students. The education is also residential for all our first year students, who live and study together in our city centre campus.
The History of Liberal Arts & Sciences
Liberal Arts and Sciences traces back its origins to ancient Greece and was born from the notion that all individuals should attain a well-rounded education to be able to make a contribution in society. The concept subsequently caught fire and eventually became hugely popular in the USA, where it is now a predominant form of undergraduate studies. Many Liberal Arts and Sciences graduates have made a great contribution to society!
The Netherlands Leads Liberal Arts & Sciences in Europe
In Europe, the Netherlands is one of the leading countries for a Liberal Arts and Sciences education, having over 9 international ‘university colleges’ with an excellent reputation. The model in these colleges largely resembles that of the USA, however special emphasis is placed on a smaller number of students, often below 600 students. Erasmus University College (EUC) is no exception, most of our classes are carried out in groups of 12 to 15 students and we pride ourselves on our tight-knit academic community.
The University Colleges Dean Network published a statement on the role, shared characteristics, and cooperation of the seven Liberal Arts and Sciences Colleges in the Netherlands.
Curious about what Liberal Arts and Sciences has to offer for you? Download our 'University Colleges at a glance' sheet (2022-2023 edition):
LAS…and Then What?
And of course it is also important to realize what a LAS degree brings you! Well, read or listen to the several testimonials of our students and alumni on our website. Liberal Arts Education will provide you with competences that are literally useful anywhere. Your education at EUC will develop your adaptivity, flexibility, and entrepreneurial spirit. This will very well position you to smoothly enter a master education either at Erasmus University or elsewhere and will help you shaping the career of your dreams.
How did Daan choose liberal arts & sciences? Listen to his story
Although I was always enthusiastic about science, during my education I had an interest in different disciplines which did not necessarily overlap. Whatever path I’d choose in my career, I didn’t want to find myself clueless reading the news about the topic outside my field. I was terrified by the thought of being an expert in, for instance, biology, but be clueless about what the monetary policies are! Therefore, I thought that the Liberal Arts and Sciences bachelor degree at EUC would provide me with the basic knowledge across different scientific disciplines, allowing me to tailor the study curriculum to my own interests. And it did. I also liked the idea of problem-based and self-directed learning, and the international environment of the student community.
