"Liberal learning is not confined to particular fields of study. What matters….is substantial content, rigorous methodology and an active engagement with the societal, ethical, and practical implications of our learning….Liberal education requires that we understand the foundations of knowledge and inquiry about nature, culture and society; that we master core skills of perception, analysis, and expression; that we cultivate a respect for truth; that we recognize the importance of historical and cultural context; and that we explore connections among formal learning, citizenship, and service to our communities." Statement on Liberal Learning, Association of American Colleges and Universities, 1998.

 

The Master of Arts in Liberal Studies is a multidisciplinary program for students seeking an alternative to traditional graduate courses of study that focus on professional training in a single area. Instead, this 30-credit program is designed for the adult learner seeking intellectual development, personal enrichment, and the benefits of an advanced education in the liberal arts and sciences. The program allows each degree candidate the opportunity to develop an individualized Plan of Study tailored to his or her own personal and/or professional goals.

Through this Plan of Study, the program examines significant ideas and contemporary issues from the perspectives of the fine arts, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. It provides an integrative educational experience that allows the degree candidate the opportunity to explore new academic areas or develop a deeper understanding of fields previously studied; promotes a deeper understanding of self, nature, and society; and sharpens critical thinking and communication skills.