Program Overview

Graduate Liberal Studies

The Graduate Liberal Studies (GLS) program is designed to explore tensions within our intellectual culture that have historical origins and practical consequences in our present world. Each of the seminars is shaped around an issue of perennial human concern that both reflects central dilemmas that have marked human civilization and provides an intellectual and cultural context for contemporary problems.

Curriculum

The central theme of GLS is an exploration of tensions within our intellectual culture that have historical origins and practical consequences in our present world. Each of the seminars draws upon material from across academic disciplines and historical periods in order to undertake a wide-ranging, yet coherent investigation of the course theme.

Course Outlines

GLS courses can be challenging, but they can also be very rewarding. Classes are presented in a seminar style which encourages lively discussion and debate as we make our way through the substantial material.

• Foundational Courses:
  • LS 800: Reflections on Reason and Passion I
  • LS 801: Reflections on Reason and Passion II
• Elective Courses:
  • GLS students who have completed the core courses may go on to take the elective courses of their choice.
  • Elective course options may include graduate-level courses from other disciplines should they fit within the student's academic interests, or even courses at another institution.

Degree Requirements

In the GLS master of arts program, students have three to four years from the start of the program to complete their degree. Students are required to complete the core foundational courses, LS 800 and LS 801, as well as four elective seminar courses and one of the following:

• Successfully defend two extended essays
• Successfully defend one project
• Complete two additional seminars

All three options result in the Master of Arts in Liberal Studies (MALS) degree.

Travel Study

GLS students have many opportunities to participate in full-credit field school courses organized by Simon Fraser University (SFU) or by other universities with GLS programs.

Program Structure

• The program sponsors a variety of public lectures and symposia.
• There are also opportunities for exchanges with other universities and for travel study.
• The total tuition cost is the same because the MA project and extended essays are considered full-time courses and fees are levied accordingly.