Master of Arts in Liberal Studies

The Master of Arts in Liberal Studies (MALS) program is a multidisciplinary approach to graduate education which emphasizes liberal education and enhanced intellectual skills that are valuable in a wide variety of careers. It is particularly designed for serious learners, or those who wish to become serious learners, from recent college graduates to men and women in later life. The MALS program is grounded in a set of team-designed core courses. These courses establish the aims and themes of the program, orient the student to a multidisciplinary approach to graduate education, and develop in the student advanced learning skills. These are designed to foster academic rigor, intellectual adventure, and cultural breadth. If MALS core courses are not offered, students may choose equivalent courses to be established by program advisors. The other components of the program are electives and a variety of options for a culminating project. Electives are usually graduate and upper-level courses chosen from departmental offerings in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Students select these courses with the aid of an advisor to build a program of study tailored to individual goals and interests. Included under electives are MALS special topics courses, which are especially well-suited to the needs of MALS students.

We seek highly committed candidates with the academic preparation, motivation and experience to undertake a flexible and rigorous program of study. While no specific background or major is required, candidates with strong liberal arts background would be ideal candidates to the program.

MALS Application Essay Requirements

Careful completion of this two-part admission essay is an important step in the application process for all students seeking admission to DePaul University's Master of Arts in Liberal Studies program. By taking the time to prepare thoughtful responses to these essays, you will provide the kind of detailed information that will help the MALS program give thorough consideration to your application. The essay should be typed, single spaced, and contain the name and contact information of the applicant on the document. Please submit essays to the College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences Graduate Office.

English proficiency

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