Liberal Arts (MLA)
The Master of Liberal Arts at St. Edward’s gives you the flexibility to design your own program of study that lets you explore your passions — and connect your life interests with your professional ambitions.
You’ll take classes aimed at self-discovery, study topics that parallel your educational and career pursuits, and develop the skills and knowledge to understand issues from varying perspectives. Your degree culminates in a hands-on Special Project that allows you to create and present an original body of work that enhances public understanding and encourages dialogue on an issue, such as a thesis, an art project or a multimedia presentation.
Master of Liberal Arts
Overview:
In the MLA program, you’ll gain insights that deepen your understanding of the human experience as you examine issues across a wide range of disciplines. You’ll study subjects as varied as English, anthropology, psychology, art history, criminal justice, global processes and communication. And you’ll hone your skills in analytical thinking, persuasive writing and oral communication.
With the broad knowledge gained in the MLA program, career paths are far-reaching. Graduates go on to work in journalism, marketing, museums, counseling, law, social services, teaching, curriculum development and other fields. Some graduates continue their education in a PhD or MFA program.
Course Preview:
Master of Liberal Arts students take courses from these groups:
CORE COURSES
Students pursuing an MLA complete core courses, including Liberal Arts Perspectives, Thematic Studies: Interpreting the World, Thematic Studies: Community and Identity, and Thematic Studies: Spirituality of the Self.
CONCENTRATIONS
Students have the option to earn an MLA concentration in Humanities, Social Sciences, Social Justice or Global Issues or pursue a different course of study.
ELECTIVE COURSES
Students select elective courses across multiple liberal arts disciplines.
SPECIAL PROJECT
You’ll complete an MLA Special Project that reflects graduate-level insight on a theme, issue or concept significant to your area of study. Past Special Projects have included theses; documentaries depicting cultural, social justice and global issues; novels and articles for publications; musical compositions and performances; and community service research projects. All projects include a written component.
View the Degree Plan (PDF) for sample course information for the Master of Liberal Arts .
Internships
Students may earn credit for completing an optional internship to pursue a career or professional interest or to supplement their academic program. Some of our students have pursued internships with organizations such as the Mexi-Arte Museum and Austin Area Interreligious Ministries. Others have received credit for their contributions to New Literati, the New College English program’s literary magazine.