A flexible alternative path to a Wesleyan degree.

The Bachelor of Liberal Studies (BLS) is a non-residential program for students who meet Wesleyan's admissions standards but for a variety of reasons are unable to commit to living on campus. BLS students might include adult learners who hold a job or have family responsibilities. BLS students take courses on a per-credit basis. Normal completion time for the BLS degree is within six years of matriculation.

Please note: Potential transfer students and high school seniors who wish to apply to Wesleyan's residential BA program should visit the Admission website.

Overview:

• Students must complete 32 credits, at least 16 of which must be Wesleyan credits (the other 16 can include courses that may be transferred in as appropriate). Wesleyan undergraduate courses are generally one credit.
• BLS credits may be earned at Wesleyan via the following programs:
  • Standard Fall and Spring term courses
  • Summer Session courses
  • Winter Session courses
  • Graduate Liberal Studies courses (may be taken for undergraduate credit based upon current academic regulations)
• The BLS degree offers the following area concentrations (Arts and Humanities, Social and Behavioral Sciences, or Natural Sciences and Mathematics). For the more focused student, a BLS area concentration may be combined with an existing minor. BLS students also have the option to complete a standard major, with the same requirements as BA majors, to serve as their concentration if it is feasible. 
• Students may begin taking classes in fall, spring, summer, or winter term. Students beginning in summer or winter term will be designated non-matriculated "non-degree student" before moving to the BLS degree.
• Space is limited.
• Housing is not available.

College students matriculated elsewhere who are interested in taking courses for a term at Wesleyan are not eligible for the BLS; however, they are encouraged to apply as non-degree students.

Wesleyan staff, and partners of Wesleyan faculty and staff, who do not already have a bachelor's degree are encouraged to apply. They should consult with Wesleyan Human Resources to confirm eligibility for the tuition benefit.

Former Wesleyan students who did not complete the BA degree may contact the Registrar's office to find out if they are able to apply their coursework to a BLS. Send email to Laura Patey, Dean for Academic Advancement: lpatey@wesleyan.edu. 

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For More Information

Please click the links on the left to learn more about how to apply and tuition.

Please Note: All application materials for international students must be received by the Continuing Studies office no later than 10 weeks before the first day of class.

For more information about studying at Wesleyan as a Bachelor of Liberal Studies student, please contact the Office of Continuing Studies: study@wesleyan.edu