Liberal Studies (M.A.)
Welcome to Rutgers-Camden’s Masters in Liberal Studies (MALS) program. With a focus on intellectual stimulation and exploration, MALS provides students with the opportunity to work alongside a highly qualified faculty of expert scholars from various disciplines, as well as engage with fellow students from diverse backgrounds.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
Rutgers-Camden’s Masters of Arts in Liberal Studies is a dynamic and cross-disciplinary program that offers a diverse range of courses in literature, history, philosophy, religion, and social sciences. Upon completion of the Master of Arts in Liberal Studies program, graduates have pursued Ph.D. programs and found success in various career paths. The interdisciplinary nature of the program equips graduates with critical thinking skills, research abilities, and a broader perspective highly valued in today’s professional landscape. Whether you aspire to further academic pursuits or to enhance your career prospects, the MALS program at Rutgers-Camden provides a solid foundation for success.
Graduate Liberal Studies may be right for you if you:
Like to read and then discuss the ideas your reading has generated
Have intellectual interests that you wish to explore and cross-fertilize
Wish to acquire knowledge beyond the professional specialty in which you are already an expert
Designed to cater to mature students with a range of work and life experiences, the MALS program attracts individuals from diverse geographical backgrounds within and outside the United States. The MALS program consists of asynchronous online courses, specifically tailored for the program, with small class sizes that encourage in-depth exploration of ideas.
Program Overview
DETAIL | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| DEGREE | Master of Arts (M.A.) Accelerated option available |
| CREDITS | 31 credits |
| FORMAT | Full-time or part-time, all MALS classes are offered online. On-campus graduate courses offered by other programs may be also be taken, upon request. |
| DURATION | The typical MALS student takes two classes per semester and completes the program in 2 to 2.5 years, depending on whether summer classes are taken. |
| FUNDING | University and Graduate School Funding Available (Partial funding only) |
Program in Action
LOSING MY RELIGION
Liberal Studies Graduate Director Stuart Charmé, a Philosophy and Religion professor, contests the “deaths of despair” study, highlighting religion’s nuanced role.
VOICES OF THE PROGRAM
Discover Rutgers University–Camden’s Graduate Program in Liberal Studies in this video, featuring faculty, alumni, and the adaptable MA degree.
PAST CAPSTONE PROJECTS
Prospective MALS students benefit from reviewing past capstone projects, offering insights into interdisciplinary studies and expected research and writing skills.
Featured Courses
View the list of Course Descriptions.
CLASSICAL MYTHOLOGY
(56:606:502)
In this course, discover the profound impact of Greek and Roman mythology on culture and language, inspiring creativity and critical thinking.
CULTURE WAR
(56:606:561)
In this course, investigate “Culture Wars” through history, sociology, and political science. Analyze the ongoing U.S. phenomenon from the 1920s to today.
MIDDLE EAST HISTORY AND POLITICS (56:606:623)
This course examines Middle Eastern history and politics, spanning the 19th century to today, offering diverse perspectives on complex issues.
GENDER, SEXUALITY, AND RELIGION (56:606:661)
In this class, scrutinize gender portrayal in various religions, exploring their impact on views of the body, sexuality, and spirituality.
FROM PHOTOGRAPHY TO THE INTERNET (56:606:633)
This course examines media’s impact on American culture through photographs, TV, films, and the internet, analyzing their role in shaping narratives.
PHILOSOPHICAL PERSPECTIVES ON THE GOOD LIFE (56:606:649)
This course delves into human flourishing, happiness, and meaningful life through diverse perspectives from philosophy, religion, and literature, considering historical contexts.
Admissions Requirements
DETAIL | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| TRANSCRIPTS | A transcript showing the completion of an undergraduate degree (3.0 GPA preferred) |
| LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION | Two letters of recommendation. These should be from former professors or other people who can comment on your intellectual abilities and academic skills. (Recommended but not required) |
| PERSONAL STATEMENT | A personal statement. Please explain why you are applying to the program, what your intellectual interests are, and what you hope to gain from participating. |
| WRITING SAMPLE | A writing sample. An undergraduate research paper is ideal, or something that shows your ability to do academic writing. (Recommended but not required) |
| RESUME/CURRICULUM VITAE | A CV outlining what you have been doing since graduation from college |
Application Deadlines
Preference is given to those submitted before the deadline for both decisions and funding opportunities. Applications received after the deadlines will be considered based on available space and budgetary constraints.
Fall
MAY 15
Spring
DEC 1
Summer
MAY 1
Reach Out to Us
Let’s begin a conversation about your academic and professional goals. If you have questions regarding the curriculum, faculty, admission criteria, or committee, please feel free to contact the Graduate Program Director. For administrative inquiries concerning the application process, campus, tuition, and fees, reach out to the Graduate School. We are dedicated to assisting you from application to graduation day.
GRADUATE SCHOOL CONTACT
Erick E. Watt-Udogu
Assistant Dean, Graduate School-Camden
erick.watt-udogu@rutgers.edu
(856) 225-6149
Take the Next Step.
We invite you to explore the boundless opportunities that await you here, where a world-class faculty, diverse community, and innovative curriculum converge to nurture your intellect and foster your professional growth. Your future starts with a simple yet significant act – learning more about the exceptional programs we offer. So, why wait? Start your application journey with us, and together, we’ll unlock a future filled with possibilities and endless success.