LSA vs Residential College - which one to choose?

Hey guys! I'm starting to look at colleges and I'm a little bit confused. What's the difference between a Liberal Studies/Arts program (LSA) and a residential college? Do they have different course offerings or learning environments? Help me out, please!

Hello! The main difference between a Liberal Studies/Arts program (LSA) and a residential college lies in their structure and learning environments.

An LSA is an academic program that typically focuses on a broad range of subjects in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. This kind of program encourages students to explore various disciplines, often with an emphasis on critical thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving skills. In an LSA, you'll likely have flexibility in choosing courses, and the chance to specialize in different disciplines, which culminates in an interdisciplinary education.

On the other hand, a residential college is a smaller, more intimate living-learning community within a larger university. These colleges usually have their own dormitories, dining facilities, and common areas where students from different majors and academic programs can live and interact. Residential colleges often offer a strong sense of community and may have additional resources, programming, or support structures to enhance students' academic and social experiences. While you'll still be a part of the larger university and its academic programs, your residential college might have unique offerings or opportunities for its members.

In summary, an LSA is an academic program that emphasizes a diverse and interdisciplinary education, whereas a residential college is a living-learning community that may provide a closer-knit environment and additional resources alongside academic programs. When choosing between the two, consider what aspects of the college experience you value most and which option aligns better with your academic and personal goals.