The M.L.S. degree is an interdisciplinary program designed to offer each student the freedom and flexibility to plan an individualized course of study. Its coursework encourages critical and imaginative thinking on intellectual, social, political, historical, literary, and artistic issues within a broad humanistic perspective. Seminar-style courses are taught by professors noted for their teaching excellence.
The M.L.S. program requires 36 credit hours of graduate study to be completed within six years, although most students complete their study in two to three years. The course of study is very flexible and allows students to design individualized programs that best reflect their needs and interests. Most M.L.S. classes meet in the evenings with spring and fall classes meeting one night a week and summer session classes meeting three times per week.
The curriculum includes courses in the behavioral sciences, fine arts, humanities, science and culture, and social sciences. With 18 credit hours or six classes in a specific curricular field, students can concentrate in the following areas: humanities; human rights and social justice; the arts and cultural traditions; global studies; gender studies; American studies; creative writing; organizational dynamics; environmental sustainability; communication, media and technology; and “self-designed.”
Curriculum
Behavioral Sciences. Behavioral sciences courses examine individuals and their behavior in various environmental settings such as family and the workplace. Courses blend psychology, sociology, organizational behavior and anthropology to introduce students to issues in human behavior as it is influenced by cultural values and expectations.
Fine Arts. Fine arts courses offer a variety of perspectives on artistic expression throughout history and across cultures. The variety of courses encourages students to study Western and non-Western visual arts, dramatic arts, and creative writing within a broad socio-historical context.
Humanities. Humanities courses offer the broadest possible treatments of literature, philosophy, religion and communications. By connecting the history of human ideas as presented and disseminated through poetry and imaginative literature and the development of religious and philosophical thought, humanities courses provide insight into the nature and development of humankind.
Science and Culture. Science and culture courses present issues pertaining to health, the environment, the understanding of the natural world and the implications of technological advancement as approached by professors of chemistry, environmental sciences, physics and biology.
Social Science. Social science courses provide a blend of history, human rights, economics and political science in the study of wealth, power and status. Courses explore the nature of citizenship as it has evolved over time.
Admission Requirements
The M.L.S. program serves motivated and enthusiastic students prepared for and interested in graduate-level study. All applicants must have the following:
- A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an accredited college or university.
- An official transcript from all colleges and universities attended.
- A completed application form and application fee.
- A critical analysis essay.
- A personal statement that reflects an interest in the M.L.S. program.
- Two letters of recommendation (preferably one academic and one professional).
- A personal interview with a program adviser.
- Optional: resume.
Applications are considered on a rolling basis for admission to the fall, summer and spring terms. Applications for M.L.S. admission must be completed and submitted online before the beginning of the term. A student must receive official acceptance into the program before enrolling in classes. In some cases, a provisional acceptance may be tendered for one term while awaiting the arrival of an official transcript or when it is deemed appropriate by program director/faculty chair.
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not required for admission. Admission decisions are based on the applicant’s previous academic record, letters of recommendation, the level of writing ability demonstrated in the essay and an interview that includes discussion of the applicant’s academic goals and expectations.