Each of the undergraduate degree programs offered by Ithaca College requires a minimum of 120 credit hours and a certain number of liberal arts credits as specified by the New York State Education Department. Only courses specifically designated for this purpose may count as liberal arts credit; they are marked “LA” in this catalog and in the semester course lists, the Browse Courses and Browse Course Catalog, available publicly on Homer. Those not so designated are marked “NLA” in this catalog and in the semester course lists. Courses listed without LA or NLA designations are under review.

The bachelor of arts (B.A.) degree combines a major focus in one of the basic disciplines with breadth of study across the traditional liberal arts fields. Through planned study of representative subjects in the humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and fine arts, students encounter the intellectual landmarks and become familiar with the basic methods of investigation, analysis, and expression of each area. Majoring in one of these fields affords the opportunity to develop greater sophistication and depth in an area of particular interest. As specified by the New York State Education Department, the B.A. degree requires a minimum of 75 percent liberal arts credits.

The bachelor of fine arts (B.F.A.) degree places particular emphasis on the media and techniques of creative expression. Courses in theory and aesthetic analysis encourage students to explore new modes of expression and to develop an ability to critique their own and others’ work. Individual and small-group instruction in special techniques helps students perfect their individual talents and demonstrate them in scheduled exhibitions or performances. Liberal arts electives enable students to attain a breadth of knowledge in other disciplines. As specified by the New York State Education Department, the B.F.A. degree requires a minimum of 25 percent liberal arts credits.

The bachelor of music (B.M.) degree combines a variety of music courses to provide a solid base from which to pursue study of a specific area, such as music education, music performance, composition, jazz studies, or recording. As specified by the New York State Education Department, the B.M. degree requires a minimum of 25 percent liberal arts credits.

The bachelor of science (B.S.) degree integrates study in one of the professional areas, or one of the natural or social sciences, with designated support courses from other areas. In this closely structured program, students combine analytical methods developed in the classroom with practical application of these methods in a laboratory or internship setting. The intent of this degree is to provide an intensive exploration of theory, method, and research within the student’s chosen field. Electives in liberal arts disciplines complement the specialization and foster understanding and appreciation of the interrelation of the humanities and sciences. As specified by the New York State Education Department, the B.S. degree requires a minimum of 50 percent liberal arts credits.

For more information about degree programs and requirements, see "Graduation Regulations.”