College of Arts and Sciences | Center for Comparative and Integrative Programs
Master of Liberal Studies
Course Delivery
100% online
Total Credits
33
Approximate Program Cost
$17,700
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Graduate in as few as
3 semesters
Program Overview
The Master of Liberal Studies degree provides students with a unique opportunity to study at the graduate level in fields that are of interest and use to them. Under the guidance of the program's director, students select courses from across disciplines in the university to form their own individualized and integrated program of study.
Kent State University is one of six institutions in Ohio to offer the Master of Liberal Studies (LSM) degree, but the only one that allows you to take courses from any college or school in the university. It also has the fewest required courses: only ONE required course, AS 61000 Introduction to Liberal Studies. The Kent State master’s degree in Liberal Studies therefore provides you with a unique opportunity to study at the graduate level in fields that are of interest and use to you. Kent State Master of Liberal Studies students, under the guidance of the program director, select courses from across the university to form their own individualized and integrated course of study.
Program Structure
- 33 minimum credit hours
- Students may start the program in the fall, spring or summer
- Workshop credits may not be used to fulfill credit hour requirements for the Master of Liberal Studies
Admissions Requirements
- Completed application form and fee
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university for unconditional admission
- Minimum 3.000 undergraduate GPA on a 4.000 point scale for unconditional admission
- Official transcript(s)
- Goal statement
- Three letters of recommendation
- English language proficiency: All international students must provide proof of English language proficiency (unless they meet specific exceptions)
Admissions Deadlines
Courses
The online Master of Liberal Studies is comprised of two core courses totaling 6 credit hours and a further 27 credit hours of electives. The core courses include a study of methods and approaches to multidisciplinary studies and a culminating liberal studies essay on a topic of the student’s choosing. Of the 27 credit hours of electives, students must select 12 to 15 credit hours of courses from a single department/school and 12 to 15 credit hours of courses from two or three other departments/schools. In addition to standard classroom courses, a maximum 6 credit hours of internship/practicum and 6 credit hours of research may be selected. Courses may be taken in any college in the university; however, since the LSM degree focuses on the values of liberal arts education, the program of study must include a minimum 12 credit hours of coursework in the College of Arts and Sciences.
Tuition and Fees
| Ohio Residents | Out of State | ||||
| Per Credit Hour | Per 3-Credit Course | Program Cost | Per Credit Hour | Per 3-Credit Course | Program Cost |
| $536 | $1,608 | Approximate Cost: $17,700 | $546 | $1,638 | Approximate Cost: $18,000 |
An additional Distance Learning fee for all students enrolled in a distance learning course is $12 per credit hour. Program tuition and costs are estimated and subject to change.
Actual tuition costs may vary based on a student’s chosen academic plan. For a complete listing of tuition rates for approved online programs please contact the One Stop for Student Services at 330-672-6000, or via our website Contact Us link.
The total program costs are estimates and are not final or binding. Program costs are based on standard fees, but fees may vary based on the actual classes taken. Kent State University disclaims any liability arising from the use of or reliance upon these program cost estimates by any person. Program costs are subject to change without notice.
Additional out-of-state surcharge for students enrolled in an online program: All Graduate—All Campuses: $10/hr.