Why Pursue a Masters in Interdisciplinary Studies Online

A masters in interdisciplinary studies online is, by nature, an interdisciplinary pursuit. Master-level study in the liberal arts teaches you a lot about many different subjects. Then you can put that knowledge to the test against your own developing values and ideals.

A masters in interdisciplinary studies online appeals to the online student who is curious about many different things. You'll be encouraged to tailor your studies to your own individual interests.

You'll study history's cultural, social, and philosophical concepts through the ages, taking courses in the humanities, history, literature, philosophy, the arts, theology, politics, policy, and international affairs.

The master-level student brings life experience to the classroom. You will share and engage with fellow students, as everyone learns from each other. Social, political and economic concerns are also addressed; master-level study in the liberal arts online includes examining the politics and ethical implications of world affairs. The student of liberal arts delves into various curricular fields, and also steps back to ask questions about the purpose of life, who we are as human beings, and how we relate to others in the world.

A typical course of study for the master-level student of liberal arts mixes interdisciplinary core courses with topics in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, and courses focusing on human values, ethics, freedom, and the nature of society.

Then you get to tailor your studies, choosing from a broad spectrum of graduate courses that are especially interesting to you. These electives create a unique course of study and help you define the topic you will choose for your final research project or thesis. Both the electives and the final research project are undertaken with advice from your program director or advisor.

Examples of courses that fall under the liberal arts umbrella include Introduction to Liberal Education; The Idea of Nature; Interdisciplinary Research Methods; Visionary Thinkers; Culture and Technology; The Self in Literature; Nineteenth Century American Studies; Science and Gender; and The Humanities in Transition, just to name a few.

You'll come away with a wide-ranging global perspective that will influence your lifelong professional and personal pursuits.

The master-level study of liberal arts promotes critical thinking and writing skills — skills you'll get plenty of practice with as you write your master thesis. A master thesis is a research-based paper that shows your advisors you understand your chosen discipline. You may collect and interpret your own original data, or critique other scholarly works. Most schools set a time limit for completing your thesis — a practical incentive for getting it done!

After completing masters degree in liberal arts, you may go on to careers in the visual arts, law, religion, government, and international affairs. Liberal arts majors may be especially good at creating social and public policy, because of their broad range of experience in varied topics.