Program

Graduate liberal studies is designed for students who wish to create a coherent framework for their scholarly experience while deepening their understanding of the arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences. Students are encouraged to pursue their own interests in a subject or topic through differing historical periods or across disciplinary boundaries. Prerequisites for admission include (1) a baccalaureate degree; (2) at least a B cumulative grade-point average in undergraduate studies; (3) a brief essay describing what the student hopes to achieve by getting a degree in liberal studies; and (4) an interview in which the candidate's needs, achievements, and study goals are evaluated. No entrance examinations are required.

The master of arts (M.A.) in liberal studies program requires 30 credits. Credits may represent a concentration of courses chosen from the graduate school's offerings, including courses offered by other units of Rutgers. Study plans are designed in consultation with the program director. Nonmatriculated study also is available on a part-time basis, and all courses are open to graduate students in other programs.

The liberal studies courses are intended to provide interdisciplinary perspectives on themes, topics, and enduring human issues. Courses may be taken in any sequence, and topics may vary from semester to semester. Students select electives in terms of individualized interests.