Humanities
The Humanities master’s program at University of Duke provides an intensive one-year curriculum focused on critical thinking, cultural analysis and interdisciplinary scholarship. Students explore literature, philosophy, history, and the arts while developing research and analytical skills applicable across multiple disciplines. The program emphasizes close engagement with texts, theories and cultural contexts, allowing learners to understand and interpret complex social, historical and artistic phenomena. Its condensed structure ensures a focused, immersive experience that balances rigorous academic study with opportunities for applied research and critical reflection.
Participants benefit from faculty mentorship, collaborative seminar discussions and access to extensive library and research resources. The curriculum emphasizes critical analysis, interdisciplinary research, cultural interpretation and scholarly writing, enabling students to synthesize diverse perspectives and produce original research. Through essays, presentations and research projects, learners refine analytical, communication and interpretive skills that prepare them for professional roles in academia, education, cultural institutions or further graduate study.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Humanities
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 13 March 2026
- Location: Duke University, United States
- Field of Study: Liberal Arts
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Humanities
• Introduction to Interdisciplinary Humanities
• Critical Theory and Cultural Analysis
• Research Methods in the Humanities
• Seminar in Literature, History, or Philosophy
Semester 2 – Advanced Research & Application
• Advanced Topics in Humanities Scholarship
• Comparative Cultural Studies
• Elective in Specialized Humanities Topic
• Independent Research / Capstone Project
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for professional and research-oriented roles that require strong analytical, interpretive and communication skills. Common career paths include cultural analyst, researcher, editor and educational program coordinator. Additional opportunities exist in museums, archives, publishing, media, research institutions and academia, where interdisciplinary knowledge and critical thinking are highly valued. The program also provides a strong foundation for those pursuing doctoral studies in humanities, cultural studies or related fields. By combining theoretical study with applied research experience, graduates are equipped to make meaningful contributions in both professional and academic environments.
Why Choose This Program
This one-year master’s program is ideal for students seeking an intensive, interdisciplinary and research-focused approach to humanities scholarship. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, cultural interpretation, interdisciplinary research and applied analytical skills, preparing learners to engage with complex cultural and intellectual questions. Students benefit from seminars, research projects and faculty mentorship that foster scholarly rigor and professional readiness. The program’s condensed structure allows learners to quickly gain advanced expertise while preparing for careers in academia, research or cultural institutions. For those who want to explore human culture, thought and expression in a focused, scholarly environment, this program provides a highly effective pathway.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 (919) 684-8111
Email: admissions@duke.edu
Address: University of Duke, Durham, North Carolina, United States
