University College-Newark seeks to foster the broad intellectual and personal development of its students. The spirit of this philosophy is reflected in the liberal arts curriculum, which requires that all candidates for the baccalaureate degree complete courses in a variety of fields of learning. In addition, each student must select a field of knowledge for intensive study in order to gain some master of a particular discipline. This combination of broad-ranging inquiry and concentrated investigation of a specific area of learning prepares the student for effective and intelligent participation in the modern world.

In preparing students for careers in the professions, business, government, and for graduate studies, University College-Newark builds on a broad foundation in the liberal arts. To earn a degree, all students must complete a general core of courses known as the general or liberal arts and science requirements. Students also must fulfill the requirements of a major and second concentration.