Liberal Arts
The Liberal Arts Master of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a one-year, full-time graduate degree designed for students seeking a broad, interdisciplinary academic experience that sharpens critical thinking, deepens intellectual inquiry, and expands cultural awareness. Rooted in the humanistic tradition, the program allows students to explore a range of disciplines including literature, history, philosophy, political thought, and the arts, while encouraging personal growth and academic independence. Rather than specializing narrowly, students engage with timeless questions and contemporary issues from multiple perspectives.
This program is ideal for intellectually curious individuals who value analytical depth, effective communication, and cross-disciplinary knowledge. Through seminar-style learning, research projects, and mentorship from faculty across the humanities and social sciences, students develop the ability to synthesize complex ideas, construct persuasive arguments, and understand diverse worldviews. Whether pursuing personal enrichment, preparing for doctoral study, or transitioning into fields such as education, policy, or communication, students leave the program with a flexible and rigorous intellectual foundation.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Liberal Arts
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 April 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Liberal Arts
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Interdisciplinary Inquiry
- Core Seminar: Foundations of Liberal Thought
- Critical Theory and Cultural Analysis
- Ethics, Society, and Human Values
- Elective: Literature, Philosophy, or Historical Perspectives
Semester 2 – Application, Research, and Synthesis
- Seminar: Global Challenges in the Liberal Arts
- Writing and Argumentation Across Disciplines
- Independent Research Project or Capstone Essay
- Elective: Media, Politics, or Aesthetics
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Liberal Arts MA program pursue diverse career paths that value critical thinking, communication skills, and intellectual adaptability. They are well-suited for roles in education, publishing, media, nonprofit organizations, public policy, and cultural institutions. Common job titles include content strategist, communications specialist, academic advisor, editor, and program coordinator in settings that range from universities to foundations and creative industries. Additionally, many use the program as preparation for Ph.D. studies in the humanities or social sciences, or for transitioning into professional degrees in law, library science, or public administration. With its emphasis on ethical reflection, analytical reasoning, and cultural literacy, this degree supports meaningful engagement with both societal challenges and intellectual life.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers a rare opportunity to pursue broad academic exploration within a structured, intellectually vibrant environment. The one-year format makes it ideal for students seeking advanced study without a multi-year commitment, while still gaining access to faculty mentorship, research opportunities, and interdisciplinary dialogue. The curriculum encourages both personal reflection and public engagement, empowering students to articulate complex ideas, question assumptions, and connect knowledge across fields. Whether you’re preparing for advanced academic work or seeking to enrich your worldview and professional versatility, this program provides the depth, breadth, and intellectual challenge that define a true liberal arts education.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
