The part-time Master of Arts in Liberal Studies program cuts a wide swath through the humanities and social sciences, studying the work of some of the world’s most powerful thinkers. As students explore a broad variety of subject matter, they enrich their understanding of social and cultural issues and improve their ability to analyze, write and complete research. MALS graduates strengthen and refine the analytical, critical and communicative skills that are highly transferable to any number of professional contexts. Secondary school teachers gain a competitive edge by deepening their subject area knowledge. For other students, the program can clarify the next stage in career or in life or provide excellent preparation for further graduate study. Nine total courses are required for the degree. Students need to complete three core courses including a thesis and six elective courses. 

Northwestern's MALS is a full member program of The Association of Graduate Liberal Studies Programs. 

Curriculum

Core Courses (3 units)

Elective Courses (6 units)

Six  graduate-level courses in liberal studies, humanities, and related social sciences. Students may take courses in the areas of Chicago Studies, Digital Studies, Film and Literature, History, Religious and Ethical Studies, or other areas approved by the SPS Graduate Office. 

About the Thesis 

Students sign up for the final course in the program during the term in which they start their master's thesis. The capstone project for the MALS program is an essay of 45 to 60 double-spaced pages written under the supervision of an approved faculty member. The project presents an opportunity to research and explore a topic thoroughly. Students often elect to expand a seminar paper from a previous course. With the approval of the program director, students may create an interdisciplinary final project rather than a traditional thesis.