Master of Liberal Studies
Curriculum

WHAT YOU'LL GAIN

Program Outcomes

In the MLS program, students have the unique opportunity to hone communication, research and writing skills transferrable to any professional or academic field. 

  • Sharpen your critical thinking and analytical skills
  • Engage with world-class Rice University faculty
  • Enhance your understanding of interdisciplinary analysis and communication skills
  • Develop the research methods needed to foster analytical and strategic mindsets
  • Gain the opportunity to attain career advancement or prepare for further graduate study
  • Grow with peers who are equally committed and energetic about exploring and learning
  • Build your professional and personal network by joining our dedicated Alumni Community
  • Add Rice to your resume
STUDENT JOURNEY

Coursework Progression

The MLS degree requires 12 courses for 34 credit hours. The multidisciplinary approach to your graduate education allows you to apply your life and professional experiences to develop new perspectives and understanding of the world.

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FOUNDATIONS

 

All new students start the program by taking Introduction to Graduate Liberal Studies and three core courses, one of each in our three main academic disciplines: humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.

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ELECTIVES

 

Once the foundational courses are complete, students may take their 6 elective courses in any of the subject areas offered.

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CAPSTONE

 

The final sequence of courses are the Capstone Seminar and Capstone course. These involve independent study where the student researches a multidisciplinary or creative project under the mentorship of two faculty members and presents their final project to the entire MLS community.

CURRICULUM SPOTLIGHT

What Students Are Learning

Courses vary each semester to support students' curiosity and interests.

Interested in previewing the Rice experience before you apply? Contact mls@rice.edu to learn how you can join MLS students for a day.

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Evolution and Society


Dr. Scott Solomon

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Foresight in Social Justice


Dr. Richard Baker

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Biblical Ethics


Dr. Matthias Henze

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Creative Nonfiction


Dr. Deborah Barrett

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Women in Southern Literature


Dr. Deborah Barrett

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Intellectual Foundations of American Law


Justice Evelyn Keyes

LEARN MORE

View the MLS Information Session

Want to learn more? Access our free on-demand information session today.

 

Email: mls@rice.edu

 

Assistant Director
Kim Raptis
713-348-6118
kim.raptis@rice.edu

 

Director
Rebecca Sharp
713-348-4767
rksharp@rice.edu

PHYSICAL ADDRESS

Graduate Liberal Studies Program
Rice University
Anderson-Clarke Center
Third Floor
Houston, TX 77005

MAILING ADDRESS

Graduate Liberal Studies Program
Rice University
Mail Stop 550
P.O. Box 1892
Houston, TX 77251-1892

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