The Study Plan Form requires the formulation of an Emphasis Area, which can be comprised of courses throughout the university. This component of the major allows each student to develop a major area of study based on a specific theme, issue, problem, or career interest and concentrate simultaneously on a general education and a particular academic discipline or career area.

Sample Study Plans

- Sustainability Area of Study sample                       - Other Possible Emphasis Areas

Before meeting with an academic advisor, it may be helpful to review the sample study plans listed above, as well as the blank study plan form, in order to familiarize yourself with the degree. If you choose to begin filling in an individualized study plan, be sure to save the document to your files for easy editing in the future.

Study Plan for Students Beginning Classes at GVSU Prior to Fall 2013

Study Plan for Students Beginning Classes at GVSU in Fall 2013 and Beyond

TOP

At times, our majors may decide to specialize their studies with a faculty member in a particular area through an Independent Study course. These are individually designed and must have the approval of the department chair.

To begin the approval process, please review and complete the independent study form with the supervising faculty member and return the signed copy to the Liberal Studies Department in 229 Lake Ontario Hall. Once approved, a permit will be put in place enabling you to register for the course.

TOP

Finally, each Liberal Studies major must create an Integrative Statement, which is typically written toward the end of your coursework in conjunction with LIB 495 Senior Seminar (capstone). The integrative statement should be a 2-3 page (minimum) reflection about your Lib major, describing the rationale for the emphasis area including what you have learned from the coursework, how those courses are integrated with each other, and how that relates to liberal education. It can also include what you expect to do with that emphasis after graduation.
 

Sample Integrative Statements

Each sample integrative statement is paired with the emphasis area chosen as the focus for the student's major.

TOP

The Internship portion of the Liberal Studies major provides supervised work experience through which students can relate liberal studies principles, academic work, and practice. Student, faculty, and advisors agree on the scope of the study, its components, and methods of evaluation.

Allendale Students:

Students must attend an Internship Workshop at least one semester prior to registering for Internship. Workshops will be announced via email. After attending the workshop and obtaining an internship, students will should electronically submit their internship agreement via the Internship Management Site.

For more information regarding the internship process, click here.

Please contact Dr. Burns-Ardolino with questions or concerns.

Muskegon, Holland, and Traverse City Students:

Please contact the appropriate coordinator from the list below for more information. You will also need to complete the Internship Agreement Form.

      Muskegon - Dr. Judy Whipps

      Holland - Professor Anne Marie-Fauvel Spring/Summer 2013

      Traverse City - Dr. Burns-Ardolino

TOP