Liberal Arts, BA (Hons)

Course summary

If you’re creative and curious with an interest in the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, the BA in Liberal Arts could be what you’re looking for. A highly regarded degree subject with a long-standing tradition, Liberal Arts gives you the freedom to craft a programme of study that is tailored around your interests and career aspirations. You can also apply to add a placement year or a year abroad to your degree, increasing the course from three years to four.This course appeals to highly qualified, self-motivated and independent-minded students who are seeking to make creative connections between their subjects. A multidisciplinary qualification that sits outside of traditional boundaries, the course offers exceptional flexibility and the opportunity to learn in some of the UK’s most prestigious Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences departments.You can choose to focus on two subjects at a deeper level or spread your learning across a wider range of subjects. You will explore a diverse selection of contemporary worldwide issues which will develop your intellectual and critical skills. As such, you will be well placed to take up careers in fields as diverse as law, teaching, publishing and the financial services.

Year 1 In your first year you will study the compulsory module Sources of the Self, an interdisciplinary module designed with Liberal Arts students in mind. Academics from across the Faculty of Arts and Humanities teach on this module and students explore topics including but not limited to: Modern Japan The Philosophy of Emmanuel Kant The work of Sigmund Freud Ethics Buddhism And belief in medieval England. You will then study an additional five modules, these can be chosen from a minimum of two and a maximum of four subjects. For more information regarding modules and subject choices, please visit: https://www.durham.ac.uk/study/courses/liberal-arts-la01/september-2025/