Master of Liberal Studies: A Better World through a Better Self

Earning a Master of Liberal Studies degree from Fort Hays State University can help you see the world differently. As you progress through your program, you will develop (or deepen) the critical thinking skills you need to become a wiser consumer of knowledge, becoming better able to understand and evaluate the intellectual work of any discipline. Most importantly, as you begin to see the world differently, you may discover new ways to have a positive effect on the world around you.

Designed with the working professional in mind, the 31-credit hour Master of Liberal Studies degree program makes it easier for you to balance work and personal commitments to achieve your educational goals.

• Personal - Work closely with your faculty advisor throughout your degree program, from developing your program of study to completing your culminating experience. 
• Practical - With more than 10 MLS program concentrations available on campus and 13 concentrations available online, find a program that meets your personal and professional goals.
• Flexible - Earn your degree on campus, online or a combination of the two. You can go to school part time or full time. 
• Affordable - While earning a graduate degree does take a lot of time and effort, it does not have to cost a lot of money. With any number of FHSU’s online programs recognized by Geteducaton.com as a best buy, you will discover a great education at a great price.
• Accredited - While Fort Hays State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, FHSU has been a full member since 2003 of the Association of Graduate Liberal Studies Programs, an international organization with over 120 institutional members. 

What does "liberal studies" mean?

Earning a degree in liberal studies provides you the opportunity to systematically explore a wide realm of knowledge and wisdom to help you better understand yourself, others and the world around you. Liberal studies focus on intellectual, social, and moral growth and helps foster your love of learning.

• IDS 801 Introduction to Graduate Liberal Studies aims to develop the practice of critical thinking and provides a consideration of the nature of liberal studies
• IDS 802 Ways of Knowing in Comparative Perspective builds analytical skills, critical thinking skills, and moral reasoning skills by introducing students to a variety of epistemologies (in the ‘hard’ sciences, social sciences, and the arts and humanities), by offering an explanation and critique of the scientific method, and by introducing students to questions regarding knowledge and its purposes
• IDS 803 Origins and Implications of the Information Society helps students understand the context in which “humans as knowers” live
• IDS 804 Information Literacy helps “students as knowers” acquire techniques and skills for getting and using knowledge

Learn more about the courses that comprise the Master of Liberal Studies Core Curriculum.

Click through the MLS website to learn more about this flexible degree program, or contact the MLS program if you have questions or would like additional information. We would love to hear from you!