The Master of Arts in Liberal Studies (MALS) Program offers mature students the opportunity for interdisciplinary graduate work. Students who enter the program may pursue their study on a part-time or full-time basis. The program is based on the assumption that technical competence and specialized training are best employed in combination with knowledge traditionally fostered by the liberal arts and sciences. Through core seminars, an individualized program of study, and the completion of a masters project, students can explore major issues and synthesize knowledge from several disciplines.

Liberal Studies programs attract professionals who feel they need further study to investigate complex issues connected with their work or interests. Some teachers and librarians find such a course of study an alternative to graduate work in education or in another single discipline. Others see the program as an improvement over a self-directed study of reading or participation in a series of unrelated courses beyond the baccalaureate degree.

Of the minimum 30 semester hours total credit, at least 15 hours, not including the credit for the master's project, must be in 500 and/or 600 level courses. Prior to submission of application to the MALS program, all students are required to meet with a representative of the Graduate School to assess their educational goals.

Note: Some courses may be taken through distance education, however much of the course work would still need to be completed on the Orono campus.

Degree Requirements

Six to nine semester hours of interdisciplinary MALS core seminar credit. Fifteen to twenty-one semester hours of additional graduate level credit developed from the students course work and research and approved by the student's advisory committee. Three to six semester hours of Master Project credit.

New

• The Peace and Reconciliation Studies Interdisciplinary Masters Degree (offered via the MALS program)

• Maine Studies Interdisciplinary Masters Degree