The purpose of this presentation is to investigate both the liberal arts tradition and the preparation of teachers in colleges and universities committed to following that tradition. Historically, liberal education has addressed itself to the task of determining and clarifying human needs and values. The major goal of education, as defined in this paper, is that of forming a rational, moral, and active participant in society. Liberal arts curricula emphasizes the development of the complete individual who has social conscience and a willingness to improve all of society rather than to think of education only in terms of production and consumption. Given this definition and description of liberal education, the question is asked, "Is teacher preparation consistent with liberal education?" The author concludes that a carefully designed program of teacher education can be consistent with the goals and assumptions of the liberal arts college or university. An investigation of the ties between this type of teacher education with other groups and institutions involved in the teacher preparation process is presented. It is pointed out that competency based teacher education and the liberal arts education are not necessarily incompatible, but rather might reinforce the strong points implicit in both philosophies. (JD)