Frequently Asked Questions
There are many common questions students ask when considering graduate programs in liberal arts. This section is designed to provide basic answers to several of these questions. However, if the answer to your question is not covered on this page or elsewhere in this site, please feel free to contact any of the MLA faculty.
-
What is a Master of Liberal Arts? MLA students, in close connection with an advisor, will custom design a program of study with your professional and intellectual goals in mind. After 18 hours of core courses you will focus on your area of interest, selecting from one concentration area. These areas include history, literature, philosophy, and liberal arts. MLA students take a ten-course program including:
oTwo foundation courses,
oFour core courses with student’s area of concentration as a guiding principal,
oThree courses with special focus related to research, and
oOne thesis course. -
Who was in mind when this program was designed? This program was designed for those thinking about the great questions of humanity and desiring to encounter the thoughts of the greatest minds of western civilization. Also in mind were those interested in pursing Ph.D.s in history, literature, philosophy, or humanities.
While many jobs require specific technical skills and select knowledge, most careers require certain general skills and broader knowledge. The MLA has been designed with this truth in mind. Some students desiring to pursue the MLA have clear career goals in sight. Others are simply seeking to deepen their minds and experiences and there are those who simply want to learn more about the world and who want to challenge themselves.
-
What kind of people will I be working with in the MLA program? You should expect students from a range of backgrounds and interests. There will be men and women come from different sectors of society bring diversity and yet unique community is established. You could easily have classes of 12-15 with people of varying ages. The collective wisdom and range of experiences will be part of your enriching experience.
-
How long does it typically take to complete the requirements of the program? Taking a full load (12 hours per semester) this program can be completed in 3 semesters. While some students may desire to complete in a fall, spring, and summer sequence, it is not necessary to do so. Due to other responsibilities, you may be encouraged to take two courses per semester from the time you enter. At this pace, the program can be completed, in less than seven semesters (two academic years).
-
Can students concentrate in a particular field or area of study? Yes. Beyond the common core that orients the student to the benefits and approach of the liberal arts, every student will determine a specific area for concentration from among those listed under What is a Master of Liberal Arts?
-
How do I decide what courses to take? The MLA is tailored to student's needs and priorities. Advising is available throughout the entire process. If you have questions about specific courses or if you desire to put together a specific area of concentration, please contact the director and with consultation with your faculty advisor, you will carefully be guided through this process. Courses described in the catalog are representative of the broad range of MLA offerings with a concentration. Please consult the catalog about the range of your options.
-
Who teaches the courses in the MLA? Courses are taught by regular fulltime Faulkner faculty with the highest academic credentials. We have faculty who have proven themselves in the classroom, society, and their respective fields of research.