The program consists of innovative courses in the areas of literature, communication, performance, education, environmental studies, science and technology studies, social sciences, humanities, the creative arts, and medical anthropology. This richly diversified major gives students skills and knowledge that will serve them well for work and life in our increasingly complex and interconnected world. Its well-rounded curriculum provides robust preparation for future teachers, and the LS major is specifically recommended as a pathway for students who want to become elementary school teachers.
Our graduates have also pursued advanced degrees in counseling, education, public health, gerontology, law, health fields, environmental studies, mathematics, English, psychology, film studies, library science, theology, and more. Many of our alumni work in public service, resource policy, technology and innovation, library studies, creativity and communication, social media, education, health, and criminal justice fields.
The elementary subject matter emphasis provides the broad academic background necessary for teaching in an elementary classroom and, when completed along with a set of additional courses, allows future teachers to waive the CSET exam.
You may incur additional costs in the course of your education at the University over and above tuition fees in an academic year such as laptops, Stationary and additional resources.
A bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies can be used as preparation for several different careers, including: Editor, Journalist, Publicist, Entry-level Management Personnel, Social Services and Human Relations Officer
Some Liberal Studies majors combine this study with teacher training programs at either the undergraduate or graduate level to become K-12 educators.
The International Year One is the perfect pathway if you want a undergraduate degree from a UK, EU or US University but do not meet the requirements for direct entry.
The IY1 course provides an intensive combination of first year University subject modules with English language skills.
Following successful completion of the IY1 you will continue onto your second year degree study directly with the University of your choice.
Learn more about International Year One| Intake | Admissions Deadline* |
Arrival to SF State |
Program Start Date |
| Fall 2024 | Jul 1, 2024 | Aug 17, 2024 | Aug 19, 2024 |
| Spring 2025 | Dec 2, 2024 | Jan 18, 2025 | Jan 21, 2025 |
| Summer 2025 | Apr 15, 2025 | PSE: May 28, 2025
UP: Jun 1, 2025 |
PSE: May 29, 2025
UP: Jun 2, 2025 |
*Key dates for PSE and UP are the same except for arrival and program start dates in the Summer 2025 term, which are indicated in the table above.
Pre-Sessional costs vary by term and by the number of terms assigned:
Your invoice total will also include your University Pathway Program Costs.
• IELTS 5.0 Entry: $28,500
• IELTS 5.5 Entry: $26,000
| IELTS Exam Score | Pre-Sessional English # of Terms |
University Pathway # of Terms |
IY1 # of Terms |
Total IY1 Tuition Fees Spring 2024 Intake* |
| 4.0 | 2 | 2 | 4 | $40,490 |
| 4.5 | 1 | 2 | 3 | $34,495 |
| 5.0 | N/A | 2 | 2 | $28,500 |
| 5.5 | N/A | 2 | 2 | $26,000 |
*The tuition list is current for 2024- 2025 and will be subject to increase each year.
*Prices of PSE terms vary for Summer 2025
Applying is easy. Complete the online application form and follow the instructions. If you have any queries please contact us.
Founded in 1889, SF State offers world-class academics, a diverse campus and an incredible location for students.
With around 27,000 students from all over the globe, international students find SF State a truly welcoming community and diverse place to live in.
SF State has been included in the Top 20 colleges nationwide for best location. It was also rated one of the most diverse colleges in America, according to Wall Street Journal’s 2022 College Rankings.
