The Bachelor in Liberal and Professional Studies (BLPS) program offers both traditional and online courses for part time and full time students looking for flexibility and convenience from a comprehensive university. Advisor-guided emphasis on courses in particular fields allows students to design their programs to meet professional or personal goals for the degree. A student may earn a Bachelor of Arts by emphasizing courses from the humanities and/or social and behavioral sciences, or a Bachelor of Science by emphasizing courses from mathematics and science and/or professional programs.

This degree is designed for:

• Adults who are returning to college to complete their bachelor’s degree.
• Community college students seeking to earn their bachelor's degree.
• Working professionals seeking a career change or advancement.

The program facilitates individualized educational plans to help students achieve their goals. Advisors work with students to help them map out a baccalaureate curriculum. Previous experience is evaluated: up to 75 credits may be transferred in from a combination of accredited colleges and universities coursework as well as CLEP exams and/or portfolio credits for life/work experience. Liberal and Professional Studies offers classes in online formats as well as accelerated and traditional programs.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

• Acquisition of diverse sets of knowledge involving the social, scientific, artistic and political forces that shape our world.
• Application of multidisciplinary theoretical perspective and approaches towards the analysis and interpretation of newly-acquired information.
• Completion of an original research project reflecting the theoretical and empirical skills and the practical knowledge attained during undergraduate study.

College Equivalency Exams

Credit may be granted for specific college-level learning gained through self-education or non-collegiate-sponsored instruction. Fairfield University is a participating institution in accepting approved CLEP (College Level Examination Program) examinations for credit. This standardized examination program is designed to let students demonstrate proficiency in various college-level subjects. An advisor should be consulted about applicable examinations prior to taking any CLEP exams. A maximum of 15 credits can be earned through CLEP exams.

Portfolio Credit for Life Experience Learning

Matriculated students may choose the portfolio assessment process as a means of receiving credit for non-collegiate sponsored learning or life experience for which there is no CLEP examination. An evaluation process of the documented learning is necessary. Portfolios must be submitted one semester prior to the anticipated graduation date. Contact the Liberal and Professional Studies director for complete information.