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Liberal Studies, MLSt

Liberal Studies, MLSt

Academic programs / Graduate degrees / Liberal Studies, MLSt

Collaboration, Consulting, Culture, Ideas, Liberal Arts, Society, cultural, ethics, general, humanities

Develop broad, integrative knowledge and apply it to practical contexts and problems. Whether you are interested in growing your workforce skills, becoming a more effective community contributor, preparing for a doctoral or professional degree, or simply want to pursue a love of learning, you will appreciate this degree's flexibility and customizable design.

Program description
Degree awarded: MLSt  Liberal Studies

The MLSt is an advanced degree that situates knowledge and know-how at the intersections of culture, community and profession. Its emphasis on integrative knowledge and cross-disciplinary approach cultivates students' capacity to see and understand the complex reality of societal problems and navigate challenges across cultural, professional and personal contexts. Communication, holistic analysis, perspective-taking and research are featured aspects of all core courses.

A unique aspect of the degree is the customization of learning. Working closely with faculty advisors, Master of Liberal Studies students build the majority of their program by choosing from a wide-ranging list of elective courses that best meet their interests and needs. With courses from across the humanities, social sciences, arts and natural sciences, this degree prepares students to become master learners and problem-solvers. The degree culminates in an applied learning experience under the guidance of a seasoned faculty member.

At a glance
Accelerated program options
This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years. It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree with:

Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.

Degree requirements

30 credit hours including the required applied project course (MLS 593)

Required Core (9 credit hours)
MLS 510 Communicating in Complex Cultural Environments (3)
MLS 511 Advanced Liberal Studies and Worlds of Possibility (3)
MLS 512 Exploring and Expressing Ideas (3)

Electives (15 credit hours)

Culminating Experience (6 credit hours)
MLS 582 Applied Project Plan (3)
MLS 593 Applied Project (3)

Additional Curriculum Information
Featuring courses from English, film and media studies and art, this degree prepares students to become master learners across a wide range of cultural and social contexts. Electives are chosen in conjunction with graduate advisors.

Admission requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the College of Integrative Sciences and Arts.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree, in any field, from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

  1. graduate admission application and application fee
  2. official transcripts
  3. a letter of interest in the program
  4. a resume, biographical statement or curriculum vitae
  5. proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Attend online
ASU Online

ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program’s ASU Online page for program descriptions and to request more information.

Career opportunities

Professionals with excellent critical problem-solving and communication skills are in high demand across sectors and industries, including business, media, entertainment, politics and community organizations. Skills in communication, creative practice, as well as the collection and critical analysis of data for the development of impactful content are valuable to businesses, nonprofit sectors and institutions relying on relevant strategies to engage and serve diverse audiences.

Career examples include:

  • archivist
  • business manager of artists, performers and athletes
  • market research analyst
  • public relations specialist
  • writer or creative writer
Contact information
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is WRGP (Western Regional Graduate Program)?
The Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) provides a reduced tuition rate to non-resident graduate students who qualify. Visit the WRGP/WICHE webpage for more information: https://graduate.asu.edu/wiche.

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