Developing a Liberal Arts Micro-Degree Program : A Case Study of K University

This study explores the feasibility of establishing liberal arts micro-degree programs at K University, an engineering-centered institution, and aims to develop such programs based on a competency-based education approach. To achieve this, the study conducted a comprehensive investigation including literature reviews, analysis of domestic and international cases, focus group interviews (FGIs) with liberal arts and major faculty members as well as university career officers, written consultations with corporate HR managers, and surveys of current students. The findings revealed that many universities have already implemented liberal arts micro-degree programs, often focusing on competencies such as communication, leadership, and self-management. According to the FGIs, faculty and career advisors emphasized the need for thorough examination of feasibility and effectiveness, recommending that clear objectives be established to complement existing curricula. HR professionals from corporations expressed a strong demand for graduates equipped with both fundamental character and essential workplace competencies. While students demonstrated low awareness of the micro-degree system, they showed high willingness to enroll in the proposed programs. Based on these findings, the study proposes two liberal arts micro-degree programs: “Cooperation and Conflict Resolution” and “Responsible Engineer,” presenting their respective goals, courses, and structures. This study is significant in that it presents liberal arts micro-degrees as a new educational model that not only preserves the foundational mission of general education but also enhances students’ practical job competencies.