Liberal Studies The City University of New York

Overview

The Liberal Studies programme at The City University of New York provides a sophisticated framework for students to pursue personalised academic interests across multiple departments. This Master of Arts degree encourages a broad intellectual perspective by integrating various scholarly disciplines into a cohesive individualised curriculum.

This programme is specifically designed for those who seek a customisable educational experience rather than a traditional, single-subject major. By working closely with faculty advisers, students construct a unique path that aligns with their professional goals and intellectual curiosities, ensuring a well-rounded postgraduate education.

The curriculum structure is divided into a core foundation, a wide selection of electives, and a culminating research component.

Why Liberal Studies at The City University of New York?

The programme stands out due to its sponsorship by Individualised Study Programmes, allowing for a level of academic freedom rarely found in standard graduate degrees. Students benefit from the extensive resources of Lehman College, including specialised research institutes and advanced imaging labs.

The university provides dedicated faculty advisement to help students navigate their interdisciplinary choices. This ensures that every chosen course contributes to a balanced and rigorous academic profile, supported by the institution's long-standing reputation for excellence in the arts and sciences.

Facilities such as the Leonard Lief Library and the Language Centre offer essential support for graduate-level research. Furthermore, the programme's partnership with the New York Botanical Garden provides unique opportunities for those focusing on natural sciences or environmental humanities.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 855 per credit
• National fee: USD 855 per credit
• Local fee: USD 470 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is built upon a foundation of core interdisciplinary subjects followed by specialised elective choices. Modules may include:

• Liberal Arts
• Arts and Humanities
• Social Sciences
• Natural Sciences

After completing the core requirements, students select 18 credits of graduate electives from various departments. These may include:

• Internship
• Independent Study

The final stage of the programme requires a significant research component. Students choose one of the following pathways:

• Master's Thesis Preparation
• Capstone Project

Careers with Liberal Studies

Graduates of this programme are equipped with versatile analytical and communication skills highly valued across numerous professional sectors. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree prepares students for roles that require critical thinking and the ability to synthesise complex information from different fields.

Common career paths for those completing this degree include positions in education, cultural administration, and public service. The ability to design a bespoke concentration also allows graduates to target specific industries such as media, non-profit management, or corporate communications.

The programme also serves as an excellent foundation for those intending to pursue further doctoral studies. By completing a rigorous master's thesis or capstone project, students demonstrate the research proficiency required for high-level academic or consultancy careers in various global organisations.