B.A., Applied Liberal Arts

Bachelor of Arts

The Applied Liberal Arts (ALA) program focuses on the critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and cultural literacy skills valued by today’s employers. Our program also provides courses in high-demand workplace essentials such as project management, data visualization and analysis, design thinking, and conflict resolution—preparing students to thrive as well-rounded, thoughtful leaders in a diverse, global society.

Curriculum

You'll pursue a major in Applied Liberal Arts while earning a concentration in one of six areas. You'll complete six major requirements and either five or six courses within a specific concentration.

Major Requirements

Find Your Concentration

ALA Concentration match your criteria

Applied Data Science
<p>You'll gain foundational skills in programming, mathematics, and statistics along with advanced skills in data management &amp; engineering, data mining, and more. And you'll graduate equipped to take on artificial intelligence and machine learning with an ethical approach.</p>
<p>Want to learn programming and turn data into real-world impact? With data driving decisions across industries, organizations need professionals who can uncover insights from complex datasets. This flexible B.S. in Applied Data Science equips you with the skills to meet that demand and thrive in one of today’s fastest-growing fields.</p>
Data Architect Machine Learning Engineer Statistician Data Analyst Database Administrator Computer System Analyst Business Intelligence Analyst
Business
<p>Students graduate with a skillset that’s agile, wide-ranging, and informed by data.  With a solid foundation in data analysis, project managment, communications and more, students are ready to step forward as socially responsible, ethically-oriented business leaders.</p> <p>Requirements:</p> <ul><li>Data Analysis and Probability</li><li>Digital Marketing Strategy</li><li>Principles of Economics</li><li>Project Management</li><li>Financial Accounting</li><li>Management and Organizational Behavior </li><li>Corporate Communication</li><li>Principles of Finance</li><li>Business Law</li><li>Strategic Leadership</li></ul>
<p>In this Business bachelor’s degree program, you will build the communication expertise all employers need, as well as in-demand skills including critical thinking, ethical leadership, quantitative analysis, project management, and risk management. <br /> </p>
Financial Manager Purchasing Manager Human Resource Manager
bc:schools/wcas/program-browser/cards/business
Criminal & Social Justice
<h3>B.A.</h3> <p>Students graduate understanding the processes through which criminal laws are made and enforced, the major theories of criminality, and the economic and psychological factors that underpin criminal behavior. They will apply social scientific research methods to particular case studies while honing their written and spoken communication skills.</p> <p>Sample courses:</p> <ul> <li>Introduction to Criminology</li> <li>Criminal Law</li> <li>Criminal Justice</li> <li>Research Methods for the Social Sciences</li> <li>Two upper-level sociology and/or psychology courses</li> </ul> <div><span class="btn btn-default btn-red"><a adhocenable="false" href="/content/bc-web/schools/wcas/undergraduate/bachelors/criminal-and-social-justice.html">B.A. Program Details</a></span></div>
<p>Explore the social, economic, and psychological factors of criminal behavior and understand how criminal justice operates in modern society. You’ll also assess political, legal, and judicial institutions and the ethical issues surrounding criminality and punishment.</p>
Police Officer Probation or Parole Officer Special Agent Paralegal Criminal Defense Lawyer District Attorney Law Student Social Work Student
bc:schools/wcas/program-browser/cards/criminal-justice
Cybersecurity
<p>With some 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity jobs around the world, our expert-taught program provides core competencies that will enable you to protect both public and private organizations from today’s urgent threats. Through in-person, online, and hybrid course options ranging from Computer Networks to Ethical Hacking, our curriculum emphasizes risk management, risk tolerance, and risk mitigation.</p> <p> </p> <div><a adhocenable="false" href="/content/bc-web/schools/wcas/undergraduate/bachelors/BA-cybersecurity.html"><span class="btn btn-default btn-red">B.A. Program Details</span></a></div>
<p>Want to join the fight against cyberattacks and work in one of the world’s fastest-growing fields? This flexible B.A. program provides a robust foundation that will prepare you to meet the surging demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals and succeed in the ever-changing cyber ecosystem.<br /> </p>
Cyber Risk Analyst Information Security Engineer Security Operations Analyst FBI Special Agent Risk Compliance Analyst
bc:schools/wcas/program-browser/cards/cybersecurity
Cybersecurity Certificate
<p>The cybersecurity certificate program lays the foundation for security professionals to achieve success.  The cybersecurity program provides a robust baseline of skills needed to adapt to changes in business, technology, and threat environments. Within the program, emphasis will be placed on the concept of risk management, risk tolerance, and risk mitigation.</p> <p>With a customizable six-course curriculum that blends online and in-person classes. Courses include:</p> <ul><li>Cybersecurity Fundamentals</li><li>Computer Security</li><li>Technical Writing</li><li>Computer Networks</li><li>Systems Analysis and Design<br /> </li><li>Python Programming (elective)</li><li>C&#43;&#43; Programming (elective)</li></ul>
<p>In today’s ever changing cybersecurity landscape, the success of a security program needs to have its roots in risk management -- implementing security controls and compliance with regulatory requirements to achieve the level of risk tolerance acceptable to the organization. <br /> </p>
Cyber Risk Analyst Information Security Engineer Security Operations Analyst Risk Compliance Analyst
bc:schools/wcas/program-browser/cards/cybersecurity-certificate
Digital Communications
<h3>B.A.</h3> <p>Through this major, students hone their spoken and written communication skills and examine theories of interpersonal, relationship, group, organizational, and mass communication. Students will apply social scientific research methods to case studies and consider the ethical implications of mass communication in society.</p> <p><a adhocenable="false" href="/content/bc-web/schools/wcas/undergraduate/bachelors/digital-communications.html"><span class="btn btn-default btn-red">B.A. Program Details</span></a></p>
<p>Acquire an in-depth understanding of the many ways communication affects—and is affected by—modern societies. Ranging in focus from interpersonal communication to how advertisers, political campaigns, and the media employ mass communication, this major or certificate equips you to analyze information across several facets of life.</p>
Communication Professional Public Relations Specialist Advertising Editor Underwriter Technical Writer
bc:schools/wcas/program-browser/cards/communication
Economics
<p>Students aiming to become bankers, business managers, market researchers, budget analysts, or others working in careers where they need to know the intricacies of economies will be well-suited for success with this degree. Students learn to differentiate between market structures and analyze case studies using theories of economic growth, unemployment, and inflation.</p> <p>Required courses:</p> <ul> <li>Principles of Economics: Micro</li> <li>Principles of Economics: Macro</li> <li>Macroeconomic Theory</li> <li>Microeconomic Theory</li> <li>Elementary Economic Statistics</li> <li>Your choice of three upper-level Economics electives</li> </ul> <div><a adhocenable="false" href="/content/bc-web/schools/wcas/undergraduate/bachelors/economics.html"><span class="btn btn-default btn-red">B.A. Program Details</span></a></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <p><a adhocenable="false" href="/content/bc-web/schools/wcas/graduate/masters-programs/ms-applied-economics.html"><span class="btn btn-default btn-red">M.S. Program Details</span></a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Want to understand how consumers and businesses behave? For students aspiring to master the theory and practical skills central to our market-driven world, this program provides a 360-degree understanding of economic dynamics in modern societies.</p>
Banker Business Manager Market Researcher Budget Analyst
bc:schools/wcas/program-browser/cards/economics
English (Applied Liberal Arts B.A.)
<p>Learn the narrative and stylistic techniques employed by classic writers of fiction and nonfiction in order to:</p> <ul><li>Write at an advanced level</li><li>Distinguish between different periods in American and British literature</li><li>Interpret literature through the lenses of class, race, gender, and historical context</li><li>Thoughtfully criticize works of literature</li><li>Imaginatively inhabit the perspectives of others</li></ul> <p>In addition to courses in British, American, and World literature, the curriculum requires four additional English electives, as well as two writing courses.</p>
<p>The English concentration builds upon skills that are first introduced in the College Writing and Literary Works core requirements. Honing these technical skills and developing a strong base in the English language will allow you to translate those skills into any future discipline.</p>
Journalist Speech Writer Grant Writer Development Officer Research Analyst Copy Editor Copywriter Public Relations Officer
bc:schools/wcas/program-browser/cards/english
History (Applied Liberal Arts B.A.)
<p>Our curriculum encompasses European, American, pre-modern, and non-Western history. As critical thinkers, students apply tools and concepts of historical inquiry and communicate research results clearly and effectively.</p> <p>Major requirements:</p> <ul><li>Modern History I</li><li>Modern History II</li><li>Two American History courses</li><li>One Pre-Modern History course</li><li>One Asian, African, Latin American, or Middle Eastern History course</li><li>Four History electives</li></ul>
<p>Deepen your understanding of the present through an immersion in the events and cultures of the past. Our curriculum encompasses European, American, Latin American, African, Middle Eastern, and Asian history ranging from premodernity to the present day.</p>
Educator in Elementary and Secondary Schools Researcher in Historical Organizations Archivist Records Manager Law Student
bc:schools/wcas/program-browser/cards/history
Information Technology
<h3>B.A.</h3> <p>This major emphasizes technical and theoretical issues in information technology. From project management to collaborative computing, the curriculum prepares you to program computer applications and employ software and technology related to security.</p> <p>You&#39;ll begin with an immersion in the basic tools and concepts of computing, then move on to examine programming, modern computer and web-based applications, and advanced software and hardware development.</p> <div><a adhocenable="false" href="/content/bc-web/schools/wcas/undergraduate/bachelors/information-technology.html"><span class="btn btn-default btn-red">B.A. Program Details</span></a></div>
<p>Today&#39;s organizations depend on information technology expertise. Students pursuing this degree or certificate prepare to fill that role by working their way from simple computer applications toward advanced software and hardware development.</p>
Database Administrator Information Systems Manager IT Consultant Systems Developer Network Engineer
bc:schools/wcas/program-browser/cards/information-systems
Interdisciplinary Studies (Applied Liberal Arts B.A.)
<p>This flexible program allows you to choose courses in consultation with your advisor. You’ll graduate with a comprehensive, multifaceted understanding of our contemporary times and be prepared to:</p> <ul><li>Address a variety of research problems using an interdisciplinary approach</li><li>Design research projects that respect the ethical boundaries inherent in the study of humans</li><li>Communicate effectively in writing and orally</li><li>Collaborate meaningfully with your peers and faculty</li></ul>
<p>Critically examine our rapidly changing society through this dynamic program. In the Interdisciplinary Studies concentration, you will work with your academic advisor to design a course of study that allows you to draw upon the other disciplines within the ALA major. </p>
Teacher Marketing Manager Education Administrator Human Resource Associate Development Officer Residential Counselor Social Work Student
bc:schools/wcas/program-browser/cards/social-science
Nondegree Coursework
<p>Nondegree students are vital to Woods College and Boston College, enriching the classroom and our communities. They come to Woods to learn new skill sets, improve their understanding of specific disciplines, and complete certificate programs. Some may also be looking to try out a subject before committing to a program or enhance their academic track record.</p> <p><a href="/content/bc-web/schools/wcas/sites/information-for/nondegree-students.html" adhocenable="false"><span class="btn btn-default btn-red">Register for a course</span></a></p>
<p>Enhance your understanding of specific disciplines, discern your interests, and try out a subject before committing to a program. Our nondegree offerings allow you to convert to degree-seeking status should you be accepted, while benefitting from the rigor of a Boston College education.</p>
bc:schools/wcas/program-browser/cards/non-degree-undergrad
Philosophy (Applied Liberal Arts B.A.)
<p>This major is ideal for students who seek to understand the world around them at its deepest level. You&#39;ll learn to address fundamental questions about knowledge, goodness, and the nature of human experience in a clear, systematic fashion. With a curriculum anchored in the great works of antiquity and the Enlightenment, this program introduces students to the major fields of philosophical inquiry including political philosophy, the philosophy of religion, and the philosophy of science.</p>
<p>Who are we, and why are we here? What is the nature of knowledge, truth, and justice? This concentration explores these and other enduring questions that form the basis of our shared humanity while sharpening your critical thinking and analytical skills in the process.</p>
Paralegal Nonprofit Administrator Journalist Writer Educator Law Student
bc:schools/wcas/program-browser/cards/philosophy
Political Science (Applied Liberal Arts B.A.)
<p>Students graduate from this major with a strong grasp of the intricacies of political life, able to analyze political processes and institutions from a variety of theoretical perspectives.</p> <p>Requirements:</p> <ul><li>Fundamental Concepts of Politics</li><li>Social and Political Philosophy</li><li>Comparative Politics</li><li>International Relations</li><li>Research Methods for the Social Sciences</li><li>Gender Politics</li><li>Law and Morality</li><li>Two courses in American Politics</li><li>Two upper-level Political Science and/or Law electives</li></ul>
<p>Explore the concepts underpinning the U.S. political system before broadening and applying that knowledge to politics as a whole. You&#39;ll be exposed to other forms of political systems found throughout the world while honing your analytical and communications skills.</p>
Public Policy Campaign Worker City Manager Lobbyist Foreign Service Office Paralegal Law Student
bc:schools/wcas/program-browser/cards/political-science
Psychology
<p>This major is ideal for students who want to analyze human behavior through the lenses of developmental history, social sciences, cognitive psychology, and civil society.  You&#39;ll study with leading practitioners and industry experts as you learn to apply key theories from the field of psychology to solve real-world issues at work, in your community, and in society. </p> <p>Requirements:</p> <ul><li>Introduction to Psychology</li><li>Research Methods for the Social Sciences</li><li>Developmental Psychology<br /> </li><li>Applied Statistics</li><li>Cognitive Psychology</li><li>Psychology in Context</li><li>Six Psychology electives</li></ul>
<p>Do you wonder why we do what we do and what makes us tick? Seek the answers through this flexible program, which covers aspects of many applied areas in psychology. Courses are offered nights, online, and in a hybrid format.</p>
Community Service Manager Health Educator Market Research Analyst Social Services Advocate Case Manager in Human Services Employee Experience Specialist ABA Therapist Strategic/Brand Planner
Sociology (Applied Liberal Arts B.A.)
<p>This program will introduce you to classical and contemporary sociological theories and challenge you to apply these theories in evaluating social phenomena. By the time you graduate, you’ll have a firm grasp on the complexities of behavior and interaction in modern societies.</p> <p>Requirements:</p> <ul><li>Introductory Sociology</li><li>Sociological Theories</li><li>Research Methods for the Social Sciences</li><li>Qualitative Methods</li><li>Class, Power, and Social Change</li><li>Three upper-level Sociology courses</li><li>Two upper-level Political Science and/or Psychology electives</li></ul>
<p>Develop the skills necessary to apply a sociological lens to everyday life in addition to scholarly research. You will learn to analyze and critique social, structural, and cultural factors that influence those experiences with a particular focus on using these skills for the betterment of the human condition.</p>
Social Worker Student Criminologist High School Teacher Policy Analyst Demographer Survey Researcher Statistician
bc:schools/wcas/program-browser/cards/sociology

apply

Apply

Print

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. 

View Articulation Agreements

Deadlines

Fall Enrollment
August 1
Spring Enrollment
December 1
Summer Enrollment
April 15
Rolling Admission
After deadlines, as space permits.

Application

Start Your Application

If you are mailing hard copies of application materials, please send them to:

Boston College
Woods College of Advancing Studies Admissions Office
St. Mary's Hall South
140 Commonwealth Avenue
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467

*Current Woods College Undergraduate degree students interested in adding a certificate to their plan of study should not use the online application. 

Declare your certificate here

Academic transcripts

Submit the following:

  • Official high school transcript with degree conferral date or official GED
  • Official college transcript(s) from all previously attended colleges or universities

If you have been conferred your associate's degree, you may submit an Attestation Form in lieu of an official high school transcript. The completed form can be sent to wcasadm@bc.edu. 

Please mail transcripts to:

Boston College
Woods College of Advancing Studies Admissions Office
St. Mary's Hall South
140 Commonwealth Avenue
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467

If your academic institution provides electronic transcripts please indicate wcasadm@bc.edu as the recipient.

Applicants whose Native language is not English are required to demonstrate English language proficiency, for required scores, visit our International Student page.

International Student page

Essay

To be uploaded to your online Application Form.

Please submit one essay by responding to one of the topics listed below. The essay should be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be limited to 500 – 750 words in length.

The essay is essential to the Admissions Committee as it allows the committee to assess your personal goals, your reasons for choosing the program to which you are applying, your commitment to your educational goals, and your writing ability. 

  1. Discuss your reason(s) for applying to the B.A. program at the Woods College of Advancing Studies at this time. Support your reasons with specific examples.
  2. Discuss your academic goals and how they apply to your planned career and/or life goals.

The essay must be uploaded as part of your online application.

Application Fee

Application fee: $45

  • Paid through online application.
  • The application fee is non-refundable.

 

Recommendations

Letters of Recommendation

Two letters of recommendation are required. Letters must be sent directly from the recommender through our online application portal or sent directly to Woods College (wcasadm@bc.edu).

Please note: Letters of recommendation should be provided by recommenders who can speak to your professional or academic abilities.

If you are having difficulty securing a second letter of recommendation, please email wcasadm@bc.edu to schedule an interview with the Associate Director of Undergraduate Admissions. This interview will serve in lieu of the second letter of recommendation.

International Students

1. Demonstrated English Language Proficiency Required

For all non-native English speakers the TOEFL (reporting code 3276) or IELTS (if applicable) from within the past two years, is required. Please view our International Students page for required test scores. If your undergraduate degree was conducted in English, you may be eligible for a TOEFL waiver. Please contact Woods College Admissions if you believe you qualify for a waiver.

International Students

2. Interview

For all international students and non-native English speakers, interviews are conducted as part of the application process.

The purpose of the interview is for the admission committee to gain a better sense of an applicant and how the program fits his or her academic and vocational needs. Additionally, the interview provides the committee an opportunity to assess a student’s specific information and to address the unique needs one may have in transitioning to Boston College.  The interview will last no more than 15 minutes.  Interviews will only be scheduled once an application has been submitted.

3. Transcript Evaluation

All students who have, or are currently attending, an institution outside of the United States must provide a detailed, course-by-course transcript evaluation indicating the following:

For BA applicants: conferral of a secondary school degree that is equivalent to a U.S. high school’s degree from an accredited institution.

For MS applicants: conferral of an undergraduate degree that is equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.

This evaluation is not just an English translation, but a document provided by an accredited evaluating agency that shows all grades, course titles, credit hours, United States degree equivalency, grade-point average (GPA), and date of degree conferral.
This detailed, course-by-course transcript evaluation must be submitted to complete the application.

Please request a detailed, course-by-course transcript evaluation for all international institutions where a degree was conferred from one of the following agencies:

Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE)

www.ece.org

Center for Educational Documentation (CED)

www.cedevaluations.com

The Evaluation Company (TEC)

TEC

 

World Education Services Inc. (WES)

www.wes.org

 

Financial Aid & Scholarships

For Financial Aid and Scholarship information please click the link below

Financial Aid and Scholarship Information

 

Questions

Schedule an appointment with an admissions counselor through our online calendar. 

Online Calendar

inquire

Woods College of Advancing Studies

Woods College of Advancing Studies offers Bachelor's and Master's degrees, certificates, and professional education opportunities.  If you're interested in furthering your education, we have something for you. 

Degree Programs

Undergraduate | Graduate


BC Summer

Courses for BC and non-BC students

Professional Education

Courses and Microcredentials.


Non-Degree Offerings

Take a course, see how it goes. 

Back To Top