The graduate program in liberal studies is designed to make connections between the study of the liberal arts and the lifelong journey toward becoming fully human. This is accomplished through the rigorous study of past and present attempts to understand the human spirit. Its courses are interdisciplinary in design and involve the rigorous study of primary sources and theory, both historical and contemporary. As such they include significant research which demonstrates independent critical thinking, critical reading, clear and concise writing, and the mastering of the historical overview of their subjects.

• Students will be aware of the human struggle to make moral judgments and act accordingly.
• Students will acquire an interdisciplinary and expert understanding of the historical framework out of which the concept of humanity has developed.
• Students will understand the themes and theories of the texts and movements studied in each Masters course.
• Students will recognize the aesthetic sensibilities evident in human history.

• Students will integrate the skills of critical thinking, critical writing, critical reading, intelligent oral communication, and rigorous research.
• Students will know how to argue logically and to disagree respectfully.
• Students will be aware of the historical and contemporary need to make ethical judgments based upon a heightened awareness of moral considerations.
• Students will demonstrate an advanced ability to situate predominant forces, ideas, and movements in terms of the cultural and intellectual influences of the past.
• Students will demonstrate the ability to conduct valid academic research

Values:

• Students will respect the common good through contemplation of the values inherent in texts and course material.
• Students will demonstrate an increased tolerance of ambiguity.
• Students will appreciate the diverse cultures represented by the human tradition, while remaining mindful of the elements common to all human experience.
• Students will refine their personal moral and aesthetic values.
• Students will demonstrate an awareness of the role of writing and dialogue as powerful humanizing tools and means to truth.