Master of Liberal Studies > Program Overview
Program Overview
The Purpose of Liberal Studies
Liberal Studies, the basis of a liberal education, involves the study of the world around us and the choices we are confronted with as we live in this world. A liberal education helps us understand who we are, what we are, and where we are. It encourages us to communicate better with those around us. A liberal education gives a greater appreciation for the literature, music and visual arts society offers us. It helps us to comprehend the complex social and political programs of the contemporary world and facilitates our ability to make use of today’s rapidly evolving technology.
An Individualized Program of Study
The Master of Liberal Studies program is designed to allow students flexibility to fashion a course of study that blends well with their interests, talents or experience. Students, under guidance of their faculty advisor, may choose graduate courses and seminars in a variety of disciplines in three arts and sciences schools. The culminating portion of the program is a thesis or alternative project that will grow out of the information and methodologies acquired in the course work. In order to complete a thesis a student must complete an extensive amount of research and analysis on an interdisciplinary topic with assistance of a faculty committee. Three thesis options are available: traditional, creative, and applied.
Program Mission
Students who have completed the MLS program will demonstrate:
- understanding of the methods of intellectual inquiry in multiple disciplines
- development of broader knowledge base with sufficient depth
- improved ability to critically analyze information
- ability to synthesize knowledge to examine complex issues
- capacity to apply learning to make informed decisions
- ability to communicate effectively
