Liberal Studies
The Master of Arts in Liberal Studies at University of Duke offers a flexible and interdisciplinary academic framework designed to help students explore complex questions across the humanities, social sciences, and cultural studies. The program encourages broad intellectual engagement, allowing learners to examine themes related to history, philosophy, literature, society, and global change through multiple scholarly perspectives. With its open curriculum and research-driven structure, the program supports students in developing critical reasoning, advanced writing ability, and conceptual depth that is both analytical, reflective, integrated, and rigorous.
Throughout the one-year study, participants benefit from close faculty mentorship, access to diverse academic resources, and opportunities to design individualized study pathways. This environment is ideal for students seeking to broaden their intellectual horizons while building strong methodological skills in research and interpretation. Coursework and seminars support interdisciplinary thinking by encouraging learners to connect ideas across different fields, strengthening their ability to approach modern issues with evidence-based, contextual, insightful, and well-structured analytical tools that support long-term academic and professional development.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Liberal Studies
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 June 2026
- Location: Duke University, United States
- Field of Study: Liberal Arts
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
• Semester 1 – Foundations in Interdisciplinary Inquiry
- Approaches to Liberal Studies
- Critical Methods in Humanities and Social Sciences
- Interdisciplinary Seminar: Culture, Society, and Thought
- Research Design and Analytical Frameworks
• Semester 2 – Applied Research & Advanced Perspectives
- Contemporary Issues in Liberal Arts
- Global Contexts and Cultural Interpretation
- Independent Research Project / Capstone Study
- Elective Seminar in Humanities or Social Sciences
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program can pursue professional paths across educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, cultural institutions, and research centers, where strong analytical thinking and communication skills are essential. Many alumni work in roles involving writing, program coordination, public engagement, community development, or research-based analysis, contributing to projects that require understanding of cultural trends and societal dynamics. Others find opportunities in policy support, media, higher education administration, or creative industries, where interdisciplinary knowledge supports innovative problem-solving. The program also serves as a strong academic foundation for individuals interested in pursuing advanced graduate studies, offering methodological preparation and broad intellectual grounding for more specialized fields.
Why Choose This Program
Students choose this program because it offers a flexible academic design, interdisciplinary depth, and access to faculty known for broad scholarly expertise, creating an environment that supports meaningful intellectual development. The curriculum encourages independent exploration while providing structured opportunities to strengthen research skills and interpret complex cultural issues. This approach allows learners to design personalized academic trajectories and build a strong analytical foundation that supports diverse career goals. With its emphasis on reflective inquiry, interdisciplinary methods, and self-directed research, the program provides a valuable pathway for students seeking a wide-ranging and thoughtful understanding of the humanities and social sciences.
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
