Liberal Studies – Ukiah Degree Completion Program
Finish Your Bachelor's Degree Close to Home
If you've completed college coursework but haven't finished your bachelor's degree, the Liberal Studies–Ukiah Degree Completion Program may be a good option for you.
Offered through Sonoma State University in partnership with Mendocino College, the program allows eligible students living in Mendocino and Lake Counties to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies from Sonoma State University without having to travel to the main campus in Rohnert Park for their regular classes.
We know that many of our students are balancing college with work, family, and other responsibilities. Some are returning to school after several years, while others are transferring from a community college and looking for a way to continue their education closer to home.
The Liberal Studies–Ukiah Program offers an opportunity to build on the college coursework you've already completed while working toward your bachelor's degree.
What Can You Expect from the Program?
Classes Offered at Mendocino College
Students complete their Liberal Studies coursework through classes offered at Mendocino College in Ukiah.
This allows students in Mendocino and Lake Counties to continue their education locally while earning a degree from Sonoma State University.
A Schedule Designed with Working Students in Mind
The program offers a combination of hybrid and in-person classes, including evening and weekend options.
We understand that students have responsibilities outside of school, and these scheduling options can make it easier to continue working toward a degree.
Course schedules may vary by semester, so we encourage students to review upcoming offerings and plan ahead with their advisor.
Build on Your Previous College Coursework
If you've already attended a community college or another university, you may have completed many of the courses needed for your bachelor's degree.
The Liberal Studies–Ukiah Program is designed for eligible transfer students who want to continue their education rather than start over.
Your previous coursework will be evaluated to determine how it applies toward Sonoma State's degree requirements.
Get to Know Your Professors and Classmates
Hutchins courses emphasize discussion, writing, and learning from different perspectives.
Our students bring a wide range of experiences to the classroom, including professional backgrounds, family responsibilities, and different educational journeys.
These experiences often become an important part of class discussions and help students learn from one another.
What Will You Study?
Liberal Studies is an interdisciplinary degree, which means you'll explore subjects from several academic fields rather than focusing on only one.
Depending on your courses, you'll study topics in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences while learning to connect ideas across different subjects.
Throughout the program, you'll have opportunities to develop and strengthen skills in:
- Critical Thinking: Evaluating information and considering different points of view.
- Communication: Expressing ideas clearly through writing, presentations, and discussions.
- Research: Finding information, examining sources, and developing well-supported arguments.
- Problem-Solving: Applying what you've learned to questions and situations outside the classroom.
- Collaboration: Working with classmates and learning from different experiences and perspectives.
These are skills that can be useful in many professional settings and in everyday life.
What Can You Do with a Liberal Studies Degree?
Students pursue a Liberal Studies degree for different reasons. Some want to advance in their current profession, while others are considering a career change or planning to continue their education.
Depending on your interests, previous experience, and career goals, a Liberal Studies degree may provide a foundation for opportunities in several fields.
Education and Youth Services
Students interested in education may explore opportunities in educational programs, youth services, classroom support, or teaching preparation.
Students planning to become teachers will need to complete the appropriate teaching credential requirements.
Business and Administration
The communication, writing, and problem-solving skills developed through Liberal Studies can be useful in business administration, human resources, office management, and program coordination.
Community and Public Service
Students interested in working with their communities may want to explore opportunities in nonprofit organizations, community outreach, advocacy, or government programs.
Human Services
A Liberal Studies background may also be useful for students interested in family support programs, community assistance, and other human service organizations.
Graduate and Professional Education
Some students choose to continue their education after earning their bachelor's degree.
Depending on their interests and qualifications, graduates may explore graduate programs in education, counseling, law, or other professional fields.
Some careers and graduate programs require additional coursework, credentials, licenses, or specialized training.
Hear from a Liberal Studies Graduate
"The diversity of classes that the program offers has given me a broader outlook on the world. I have more of an accepting attitude now."
— Sarah Reeser, Liberal Studies Major
Who Can Apply?
The Liberal Studies–Ukiah Degree Completion Program is intended for eligible transfer students living in Mendocino or Lake County.
To be considered for admission, students must:
- Live in Mendocino County or Lake County.
- Meet Sonoma State University's transfer admission requirements.
- Be admitted to Sonoma State University as a Liberal Studies–Ukiah major.
If you're unsure whether your previous college coursework meets the requirements, we encourage you to review the admission information before applying.
Learn How to Apply to Liberal Studies–Ukiah
Planning for Life After Graduation
Whether you're thinking about changing careers, applying to graduate school, or exploring professional opportunities, we've included some resources to help you get started.
Career Opportunities
Learn about career fields that Liberal Studies graduates may want to explore.
Explore Liberal Studies Career Opportunities
Graduate and Credential Programs
Find information about graduate education, teaching credentials, and professional certifications.
Explore Graduate and Credential Programs
Letters of Recommendation
If you're applying to graduate school, a scholarship, or a job, you may need a letter of recommendation from a professor.
We've put together some suggestions to help you prepare your request.
Read Tips for Requesting Letters of Recommendation
Career and Graduate School Resources
Find additional information about planning for graduate school and exploring career options.
View Career and Graduate School Resources
Interested in Learning More?
If you're thinking about returning to college or transferring to Sonoma State, we encourage you to learn more about the Liberal Studies–Ukiah Program.
We understand that deciding to return to school is a big commitment, especially when you're balancing work, family, and other responsibilities.
If you have questions about the program, your previous coursework, or what you need to do to get started, please reach out.
We're happy to help you understand your options and find the information you need.
We look forward to hearing from you and helping you explore the possibility of completing your degree through Liberal Studies–Ukiah.