Program Overview

MASTER OF ARTS IN LIBERAL STUDIES

The Master of Arts in Liberal Studies (MALS) is an interdisciplinary program that explores important questions from a variety of perspectives.

What is MALS?

• MALS is interdisciplinary: Courses are taught by faculty from across the College of Arts and Sciences, and each one has an interdisciplinary aspect.
  • We break down departmental barriers to explore important questions through a variety of perspectives.
• MALS tackles the big questions:
  • What does it mean to be human?
  • How do we understand the world we live in?
  • Where did we come from and where are we going?
  • Each MALS course invites broad thinking on issues of importance.
• In MALS, you follow your passion:
  • Within the broad parameters of the program, you are free to shape your course of study to suit your intellectual interests, to follow your passion.
• MALS is stimulating and dynamic:
  • Small seminar classes mean that you learn from your classmates as well as your professors.
  • The diversity of the student body, the richness of their life experiences, and the variety of their interests create a stimulating and dynamic learning environment.
• MALS can boost your career:
  • While many MALS students are in the program for the pure joy of learning, the program cultivates important skills sought by employers:
    • Critical thinking
    • Problem solving
    • Research methods
    • Writing
    • Presentation skills
• MALS understands adult students:
  • You can complete the degree on a part-time basis, and classes are held in the evening for the convenience of those who are working.
  • No GRE scores are required for admission.

Program Structure

The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to explore their intellectual passions while developing valuable skills.

Curriculum and Course

• Degree Requirements:
  • The program requires students to complete a set of core courses and electives.
• Core Courses:
  • These courses provide a foundation for the program, introducing students to key concepts and methodologies.
• Current and Future Course Offerings:
  • The program offers a range of courses, allowing students to explore different topics and interests.
• Concurrently Earn a Certificate:
  • Students have the opportunity to earn a certificate in a specific area of study, enhancing their skills and knowledge.
• Taking Courses Outside the MALS Program:
  • Students may take courses outside the MALS program, allowing them to explore other interests and disciplines.
• Transfer Credit:
  • The program allows students to transfer credits from other institutions, providing flexibility and recognizing prior learning.

Admission

• Requirements for Admission:
  • The program has specific requirements for admission, including academic prerequisites and application procedures.
• Application Procedure:
  • The application procedure involves submitting an application, transcripts, and other supporting materials.
• Application Deadlines:
  • The program has specific deadlines for applications, and students are encouraged to apply early.

People

• Faculty:
  • The program is taught by a diverse range of faculty members, each with their own area of expertise.
• Alumni and Student Profiles:
  • The program has a strong community of alumni and current students, who share their experiences and perspectives.
• Staff:
  • The program is supported by a team of staff members, who provide administrative and academic support.
• Student-Alumni Association Board:
  • The program has a student-alumni association board, which provides opportunities for students to engage with alumni and develop professional networks.
• Faculty Advisory Committee:
  • The program has a faculty advisory committee, which provides guidance and support for the program.

Student and Alumni Resources

• MALS Student Handbook:
  • The program provides a student handbook, which outlines policies, procedures, and resources.
• Registering for Courses:
  • The program provides guidance on registering for courses, including deadlines and procedures.
• Tracking Your Progress:
  • The program provides tools and resources for students to track their progress, including academic advising and support.
• Customizing Your Curriculum:
  • The program allows students to customize their curriculum, providing flexibility and choice.
• Advisement:
  • The program provides academic advisement, supporting students in their academic and professional goals.
• Paying for Courses:
  • The program provides information on payment options and financial aid, supporting students in their academic pursuits.
• Library Resources:
  • The program provides access to library resources, including databases, journals, and books.
• The Writing Center:
  • The program provides access to a writing center, which offers support and guidance on writing and research.
• Research/Travel Grants:
  • The program provides opportunities for research and travel grants, supporting students in their academic and professional development.
• Thesis and Projects Guidelines:
  • The program provides guidelines for theses and projects, supporting students in their academic and professional goals.
• Leave of Absence/Sustaining Status:
  • The program provides information on leave of absence and sustaining status, supporting students in their academic and professional pursuits.
• Graduating:
  • The program provides guidance on graduating, including deadlines and procedures.
• Raymond Callahan Prize:
  • The program awards the Raymond Callahan Prize, recognizing outstanding academic achievement and contributions to the program.
• The Value of Your MALS Degree in the Workplace:
  • The program provides information on the value of the MALS degree in the workplace, including career opportunities and professional development.
• Student-Alumni Association:
  • The program has a student-alumni association, which provides opportunities for students to engage with alumni and develop professional networks.