A liberal arts degree provides a versatile foundation for careers in government, law, or politics by developing critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills.
Through the study of diverse disciplines—such as political science, history, sociology, and philosophy—you gain a nuanced understanding of societal structures, legal principles, and policy-making processes. This broad perspective equips you to analyze complex issues, craft persuasive arguments, and engage effectively with various stakeholders.
Additionally, the emphasis on research and ethical reasoning prepares you to navigate the complexities of governance, advocate for justice, and contribute thoughtfully to public discourse and policy development.
A liberal arts degree cultivates a deep understanding of societal systems while fostering key transferable skills essential for advancing justice, such as:
- Leadership and social action
- Strong communication skills
- Critical thinking skills
- Adaptability/Flexibility
- Analytical Skills
- Ability to take initiative
Related Interests
Interested in learning more about what you can do with a liberal arts degree?
Majors
Explore our degrees designed for those interested in government, law, or politics. Our programs will equip you with the skills to excel and turn your passions into a rewarding career.
Examines the historical and contemporary experiences of African Americans. Prepares students to address racial injustice, advocate for civil rights, and influence inclusive policies to create equitable social change.
African American Studies
Combines anthropology with data analysis to study societal trends. Prepares students to tackle social injustices, contribute to evidence-based policy development, and address intersections of science, law, and equity.
Anthropological Science
Provides a holistic understanding of human cultures and societies. Equips students to address cultural injustices, design equitable policies for diverse populations, and engage in community advocacy with a nuanced perspective.
Anthropology
Explores Asian cultures, languages, and histories. Equips students to engage in cross-cultural dialogue, advocate for policies promoting cultural understanding, and contribute to justice initiatives involving Asian communities.
Asian Studies
Focuses on effective communication and public engagement. Prepares students to advocate for justice through persuasive messaging, public awareness campaigns, and fostering community dialogue around social issues.
Communication Arts and Sciences
Explores the justice system, criminal behavior, and societal impacts of crime. Equips students to reform criminal justice policies, advocate for fair treatment, and address systemic inequalities in the legal system.
Criminology
Analyzes economic systems and their societal impacts. Prepares students to design equitable economic policies, address financial disparities, and advocate for systemic economic justice.
Economics
Develops skills in analysis, communication, and storytelling. Prepares students to craft persuasive arguments, engage in advocacy writing, and influence public opinion on justice-related issues through impactful narratives.
English
Examines global systems and cultural interactions. Equips students to advocate for human rights, engage in international justice efforts, and influence policies addressing global inequities.
Global and International Studies
Explores historical patterns of inequality and reform. Prepares students to apply historical insights to contemporary justice issues, advocate for equitable policies, and preserve marginalized narratives.
History
Studies global political systems and diplomacy. Equips students to navigate international justice efforts, advocate for human rights, and shape policies promoting equitable global governance.
International Politics
Examines Jewish history, culture, and experiences. Prepares students to engage in interfaith advocacy, promote cultural understanding, and address issues of minority rights and social justice.
Jewish Studies
Focuses on workplace equity and organizational behavior. Prepares students to advocate for fair labor practices, design inclusive workplace policies, and address systemic inequities in employment.
Labor and Human Resources
Explores Middle Eastern history, politics, and culture. Equips students to advocate for justice in regional conflicts, promote cross-cultural understanding, and engage in policies addressing Middle Eastern affairs.
Middle East Studies
Analyzes political systems, governance, and public policies. Prepares students to develop equitable legislation, advocate for justice reforms, and contribute to systemic social change through political action.
Political Science
Studies human behavior and mental processes. Equips students to address social injustices through behavioral insights, develop equitable mental health policies, and advocate for community well-being.
Psychology
Examines social structures and systemic inequalities. Prepares students to design policies addressing injustice, advocate for marginalized communities, and promote equity in societal systems.
Sociology
Focuses on gender, intersectionality, and feminist theory. Prepares students to advocate for gender equality, shape policies promoting justice, and address systemic disparities affecting marginalized genders.
Women’s Studies
While this page shows many opportunities and examples of what our students and alumni have done related to this area of interest, this is not an exhaustive list of majors or experiences.
Out-of-Classroom Experiences
Internships
- Geisinger Medical Center
- The Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition
- Federal Reserve Bank of New York, General Services Administration
- Centre County Planning and Community Development
- Various law offices
- Political campaigns
- Representatives’ and senators’ offices
- U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)
Education Abroad Destinations
Netherlands
Ireland
Curaçao
Germany
Italy
Spain
United Kingdom
France
Post-Graduation Opportunities
- Law school
- MBA
- Graduate school to study law, public policy, nonprofit management, criminal justice, urban and regional planning, public health, international relations, and political science
- Activist/Organizer
- Campaign Manager
- Congressional Office/Committee Staffer
- CIA Analyst or Agent
- Attorney
- Foreign Service Officer
- Lobbyist/Activist
- Policy Analyst
- Politics
- Law
- International Affairs
- Business
- Government Agencies
- Non-profit
- Media
- Education
- US House of Representatives
- US Department of State
- US Armed Forces
- Deloitte
- Vanguard
- Amazon
- Booz Allen Hamilton

Maddie Hindman

Hunter Steach
