Learn how to approach complex topics such as the environment, poverty, governance, peace and conflict and education. 

The Bachelor of Liberal Arts (BLA) program at UMass Lowell is an exciting interdisciplinary program that offers students the opportunity to design a personalized program from more than two dozen possible concentrations.

Meet Our Students and Alumni

James Joutras poses with a group of students in Japan
James Wilson Joutras '19
Liberal Arts – Digital Media and Theatre Arts

James Joutras came to UMass Lowell to discover himself. His experiences instilled confidence – and took him to Japan, where he plans to work after graduation.

I discovered I was good at editing – taking a bunch of different elements that don’t necessarily make sense and putting them together in a way that creates a coherent story.
Read More About James Wilson Joutras 
Leo Giordano sits at a desk with a computer.
Leonardo Giordano '26
Liberal Arts

Leonardo Giordano has twice interned for credit through a new program.

The internships have expanded my network, and they were very career-centered.
Read More About Leonardo Giordano 
Melodie Armand sitting on a bench
Melodie Armand '22
Bachelor of Liberal Arts

Melodie Armand turned a setback into greater success.

I’m on a different path, but I’m on the right path.
Read More About Melodie Armand 
Chummeng Soun performs with Flying Orb, a group of younger Cambodian-American dancers in Lowell
Chummeng Soun '19
Asian Studies, Digital Media

Chummeng Soun is documenting the traditional dances of his native Cambodia with support from the Center for Asian American Studies and the Southeast Asian Digital Archive.

That's where my passion lies - in filmmaking and storytelling about my heritage.
Read More About Chummeng Soun 
UMass student Sandi DeRuntz stands in front of Difference Maker sign.
Sandi DeRuntz '25
Bachelor of Liberal Arts: Art and Psychology

Sandi DeRuntz invented ZipperBuddy, an aid for people with disabilities, through an interdisciplinary class and DifferenceMaker.

I’ve found my purpose: I want to create accessible devices.
Read More About Sandi DeRuntz