Master of Arts in Liberal Studies

The Master of Arts in Liberal Studies (MLS) program at Widener University provides an interdisciplinary and humanistic approach to an understanding of self, society and human accomplishment. It is based on the conviction that the cultivation of general knowledge and the study of the human experience have a strong and exciting appeal for adult students  who wish to learn, to discuss, to wonder, and to enjoy.

Emphasis is placed on the development of a unified understanding of the arts and sciences. Through core courses in cultural anthropology, philosophy, and science, a basis is provided for students to move into elective courses in sociology, history, art history, folklore, literature, political science, economics, writing and communications, as well as additional courses in cultural anthropology, philosophy, and science. All courses are specially created for the program. Classes are small in size, have a seminar format, and are offered in the evening, on the Chester Campus.

Degree Requirements

To qualify for the degree of Master of Arts in Liberal Studies a student must complete the three core courses, seven elective courses, and the three-credit Capstone Project for a total of 33 semester hours. The student must attain a minimum 3.0 average.

Capstone Project

The Capstone Project is designed to be a unifying or culminating project in which the student brings to bear on some topic or issue the judgment and perspectives arising from the Liberal Studies courses taken. As an interdisciplinary degree, the Master of Arts in Liberal Studies signifies that students have been exposed to a broad range of perspectives in the liberal arts and sciences. The Capstone Project, as a final exercise, should reveal what has been gained by this exposure. Each student works under the guidance of a faculty supervisor whom the student selects from among the MLS faculty.

Diversity of Student Backgrounds

In the same way that courses contain a diversity of perspectives, students in Widener's program come from a variety of academic and professional backgrounds. The faculty make no assumptions that students have common academic preparation in the liberal arts. Rather, the faculty appreciate that MLS students bring a variety of perspectives which contribute to the discussions and analysis of material.

Admissions

An applicant for admission to the Master of Arts in Liberal Studies program must have earned a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university. Candidates are considered for admissions after having submitted:

• A completed application form
• The nonrefundable application fee ($25)
• Two letters of recommendation
• Transcripts from all previously attended institutions
• A brief statement describing reasons and expectations for study in the program

A personal interview with the program's director is also required.

Kenneth Skinner, Ph.D.
Director

Master of Arts in Liberal Studies
Widener University
One University Place
Chester, PA 19013
tel: 610-499-4287
kaskinner@widener.edu