Frequently Asked Questions

          "I wish I could find a program that I could complete during my free time."                    "I want a graduate education that I can readily apply to my workplace."                    "I want to enjoy my next degree and not feel pressured to compete with other students."                    "I don't have time to come to campus every week for classes, so my classes have to be designed for the distance learner."          

As with any program of this nature, there are always questions that students have that are both important and common. If you have specific questions about the program that are not addressed below, please feel free to contact us.

Below you'll find some of the common answers to questions that prospective students have about the Master of Liberal Studies at Fort Hays State University. The Windows Media Player is required to view these video and audio clips. Please click here to download the Windows Media Player if you do not have it installed on your computer.

An Introduction to the MLS...

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Who is the MLS for and what are the expected outcomes from the MLS?

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How do I apply for admission to the MLS?

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What are the hardware and software requirements to complete the MLS?

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An overview of the MLS curriculum...

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What concentrations are available through the MLS?

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How are the courses delivered and scheduled?

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What is the culminating experience?

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What can the MLS do for me?

Many graduate students like the flexibility of the MLS to study in an emerging discipline without a full graduate program. The MLS degree can be used by individuals who want to come back to school to retool or to experiment with a new area of inquiry. Though the MLS does not necessarily certify you for any particular advancement, many of our graduates have successfully used the MLS as an advancement step within their organization or into new careers. More.

How soon can I start the MLS program?

FHSU is on a semester schedule. Classes normally begin in late August, mid-January, and early in June.

What is the cost?

Cost of education is always a factor. As of Fall 2009, graduate tuition and fees for Virtual College students will be $225 per credit hour (this does not include books and supplies).

Tuition and fees - $6975 ($214 x 31 credit hours)

Books and materials - $2200 (assuming a cost of $200 per class)

Computer and software - $1000 (optional, if you have one or are not taking online classes)

Approximate total cost for MLS degree - $9834

Do I need to be admitted before I can take classes?

You should wait for the formal notification that you have been accepted into the MLS program before you register for classes.

Can I change my program of study after I start?

Yes, though at a minimum this will require the approval of your advisor, the Director of the MLS program, and the Graduate Dean. Changing to a different concentration will require you to reapply for admission to the new department (and with a new advisor), but you will not be required to apply for readmission to the Graduate School. Contact the Graduate School or the Director for more information if you want to change concentrations. Once you have been admitted to this concentration, please follow the MLS Checklist and carefully read The MLS Student Handbook.

Is Fort Hays State University accredited?

Yes. FHSU is accredited by the North Central Association for Colleges and Schools and is granted the authority to award degrees by the Kansas Board of Regents. Fort Hays State University is also accredited by several specialized agencies. The Master of Liberal Studies is a full member of the Association of Graduate Liberal Studies Programs.

Can I receive financial aid for my studies?

Yes, FHSU is a Title IV compliant institution. Contact our Financial Assistance Office for more information (1-800-628-3478).

Do I need to maintain a certain GPA?

As with nearly every graduate school program you'll need to have a 3.0 to graduate. When departments accept you they may have other stipulations.

Where do I find more information about the general policies for graduate education?

• www.fhsu.edu/gradschl/faq.shtml
• www.fhsu.edu/gradschl/policies.shtml

Can I transfer credit from ACE or another graduate school?

In many cases if the graduate credit is intrinsic to the course of study you are proposing, credit can be applied to your MLS concentration. In some cases 6 to 9 hours can be applied toward the concentration. All graduate work considered for transfer (a) must be no older than six years by the time the student finishes the MLS; (b) must be taken at the graduate level; (c) must have a grade of "C" or better (a student's advisor can set a higher standard); (d) must be offered by a regionally accredited institution; and (e) cannot be part of another post-graduate degree.