COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Liberal Arts program at Auburn University at Montgomery is a flexible, 30-credit graduate program designed to provide students with a broad interdisciplinary education in the liberal arts. The program begins with two required core courses, Research and Writing (MLA6000) and Themes in Society and Culture (MLA6030), which provide foundational skills in critical thinking, scholarly inquiry, and analytical writing, establishing the basis for graduate-level interdisciplinary study. Beyond the core, students select seven additional courses from graduate offerings across various liberal arts disciplines, allowing them to tailor the program to their personal interests or professional goals. Options for individualized study include Independent Study (MLA6900) and Directed Study in Liberal Arts (MLA6930), which provide students the flexibility to explore specialized topics under faculty supervision. To culminate the degree, students may choose a research-focused path by completing a Thesis (MLA6992) along with the Thesis Seminar (MLA6952), providing the opportunity to conduct original research and formally defend their scholarly work. Alternatively, students may pursue a capstone experience (MLA6985) instead of a thesis, integrating their coursework into a comprehensive applied project or professional portfolio that demonstrates their learning and analytical skills. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, interdisciplinary analysis, and effective communication, preparing graduates to engage with complex societal, cultural, and professional challenges. By combining core instruction, elective flexibility, and a culminating research or applied project, the Master of Liberal Arts program fosters both intellectual growth and practical skill development. Graduates emerge with the ability to synthesize ideas across multiple disciplines, conduct independent research, and apply their knowledge thoughtfully in academic, professional, and community contexts. The program’s adaptable structure ensures that students can pursue a personalized graduate experience that aligns with their career ambitions, continuing education goals, or lifelong learning interests.