Online Master of Liberal Studies

Are you interested in learning how interdisciplinary approaches boost society’s ability to solve complex and evolving problems? Do you have a variety of interests that span the humanities, arts and social sciences? If so, Arizona State University’s Master of Liberal Studies may be a perfect fit for you. The tangible skills and cultural context you’ll gain in this degree support an array of roles you can pursue across industries.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 10/16/2024


Total classes:

Total classes: 10

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 30

Degree questions, answered

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What is a master’s in liberal studies?

A Master of Liberal Studies is an advanced degree built for creative thinkers interested in embracing the interconnectedness of contemporary society. Whether you’re interested in literature, film and media, religion or politics, pursuing this degree allows you to learn about a range of topics related to your personal and professional interests.

In this degree, you’ll explore human ideas and values in a variety of contexts, including literary, political, religious, social and scientific. You’ll gain an understanding of how your interest areas shape the human experience. No matter the topics you choose, you’ll sharpen a set of transferable skills, such as:

  • Analyzing the historical and cultural contexts of forms of expression, documentation and media.
  • Applying creative and critical thinking skills to our changing society.
  • Building an informed socio-cultural analysis to evaluate contemporary issues.
  • Communicating complex ideas through research and creative narrative writing.

What makes the Master of Liberal Studies program unique?

Customization is what makes this program stand out. You’ll refine your creative and analytical skills and then apply them to the topics you choose. You’ll also challenge your perspective of relevant topics by examining them through historical, global and cultural contexts.

With your academic advisor, you’ll design your course plan to maximize the number of topics you can learn about, focus on one or more topics that differ from your undergraduate degree and more. Your personal and professional goals are the foundation of your academic journey from enrollment to graduation.

What can you do with a liberal studies degree?

A Master of Liberal Studies can lead to new and evolving career opportunities. The abilities you’ll develop through reading, writing, discussing and researching can support roles from the arts and education to business and public service.

Additionally, you’ll graduate prepared for the jobs of the future. With the expertise you’ll gain to adapt to new landscapes, embrace multiple perspectives and analyze cultural contexts, you’ll be able to adjust to new ways of working and solving problems.

Does my master's in liberal studies say 'online'?

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.” That’s because ASU Online students learn from the same faculty and receive the same course content as in-person students receive.

Master’s in liberal studies classes

In this master’s in liberal studies program, you’ll self-select most of your courses. Requirements include three core courses and a two-semester culminating project. You’ll work hand-in-hand with your academic advisor to fulfill your remaining credits with electives that support your interests, ambitions and goals. Required courses include:


The jobs a liberal studies master’s prepares you for

This master’s in liberal studies can complement roles in nearly all industries in the public, private and nonprofit sectors. While this degree doesn’t provide occupational training, you’ll graduate with an advanced, multidisciplinary skill set that employers look for in candidates. Possible career paths include, but aren’t limited to:

Learn from experienced faculty who empower broad-based learning

Faculty in the College of Integrative Sciences and Arts are committed to research and exploration in their fields of work. Many of our faculty and staff are recognized nationally and internationally for their achievements from psychology to writing.

  • American Educational Research.
  • Association fellows.
  • American Psychological Association Fellows.
  • Fulbright scholars.

Learn from experienced faculty who empower broad-based learning

Faculty in the College of Integrative Sciences and Arts are committed to research and exploration in their fields of work. Many of our faculty and staff are recognized nationally and internationally for their achievements from psychology to writing.

  • American Educational Research.
  • Association fellows.
  • American Psychological Association Fellows.
  • Fulbright scholars.

Master’s in liberal studies admission requirements

Applicants to the Master of Liberal Studies program must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the College of Integrative Sciences and Arts.

Study at a globally recognized university

ASU is a global university recognized for its commitment to innovation, research and high-quality academic programs. Our university is repeatedly awarded peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report and other respected organizations.

#1


in innovation for 10 consecutive years, ahead of Stanford and MIT.

Top 5


best online bachelor’s programs.

Top 10%


best global universities.

80%


of graduates reported that their experiences at ASU inspired them to explore new career opportunities.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

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