The Great Books are great because they speak wisely and deeply about the perennial questions confronting man through the ages. They invite us into the great conversation about life and death, right and wrong, triumph and tragedy. It is a conversation that is often surprisingly pertinent to today’s headlines and social issues.
The most distinct aspect of the MLA program is its conversational class format. Students read the class material (classics, including scripture ) and discuss the works, engaging in a three-way conversation with great thinkers of the past, the Christian faith, and the other students including the professor.
This approach encourages an intense reading of the text, critical thinking, clarity in communication, and the skill of formulating significant questions. A recent survey of corporate CEO’s states that these are the very qualities they look for in new hires. The study of these great texts will also affect you on a higher level, shaping your soul – the purpose of a true education.
While the program is intentionally broad-based and interdisciplinary, you can focus your studies in literature, history, or philosophy. This allows you to pursue doctoral studies in these disciplines if you so choose.
Ultimately, the Master of Liberal Arts degree is so designed because we believe along with Desiderius Erasmus that, “All studies, philosophy, rhetoric are followed for this one object, that we may know Christ and honor him. This is the end of all learning and eloquence.”
Please consider joining us in the “Great Conversation” as we learn together from those who have gone before us. If you have any questions or would like to arrange for a campus visit and experience one of our classes, do not hesitate to contact me.
Dr. Mike Young
Master of Liberal Arts Program Director
E-mail: myoung@faulkner.edu
Phone: (334) 386-7918 or (800) 879-9816 ext. 7918