Our definition of a liberal arts education is that it is not only a study of academic disciplines but also a mode of instruction that emphasizes applying knowledge and skills learned in one context to new contexts, and on employing interpersonal skills like teamwork, courage, creativity and judgment to solve complex, interrelated problems. At Sierra Nevada College, we take it a step further: We believe that a liberal arts education is the best way to prepare not just for your work, but for your entire life.College graduates need to be prepared to have not one career but a number of careers throughout their lifetime. The new workplace requires flexibility and adaptability. Some educational programs focus more on creating experts in ever-more specialized fields. We graduate scholars who are able to make informed judgments even on matters outside their particular competence. If we have done our job well, our graduates enter the world as well-trained, well-rounded individuals.

For active-duty servicemembers, and their spouses and college-age children, Sierra Nevada College limits the academic residency requirement to twenty-five percent or less of usual for all degrees. There are also no “final year” or “final semester” residency requirements for active-duty servicemembers and their families. The academic residency requirements can be completed at any time that active-duty servicemembers and their family members are enrolled.  Reservist and National Guardsmen on active duty are covered in the same manner.