Master of Arts in Liberal Studies

Philosophy, history, economics, literature, art, natural and social science. Minds like Shakespeare, Darwin, Freud and Aristotle. What ideas will change the way you view the world, or create new opportunities for you?

A Challenging Intellectual Experience
Northwestern University's Master of Arts in Liberal Studies (MALS) program cuts a wide swath through the humanities and social sciences to provide a challenging intellectual experience that will expand your horizons and develop the knowledge and skills essential for professional development in diverse fields, or as a context for advanced graduate study.

Essential Analytical Skills
Explore humanity's greatest questions and ideas and dramatically improve your analytical, writing and research abilities. Most MALS students find that the key benefit of the program is its focus on the critical thinking skills that are necessary in today's professional world. From teaching, advertising and law, to business, the arts, and any number of other fields, professionals with broad-based knowledge are well-positioned to excel. They are called upon to analyze and synthesize complex information, weigh evidence, challenge assumptions, and navigate competing considerations and perspectives in order to solve real problems.

Lively and Engaging Courses
Seminar-style, small group discussions — not traditional lectures — form the core experience of the MALS program. You will discuss and debate thoughts and opinions with classmates and professors, examining different critical approaches and drawing new connections with others who share your passion for learning. 

Courses are designed around weekly readings drawn from subjects such as history, religion, ethical studies, American studies and more. You will find that the discussions — and your written responses to the readings — challenge and strengthen your critical faculties as you enrich your understanding of vitally important social and cultural issues.