Course outlines
Please find current course outlines listed below. Past course outlines can be found here.
Fall 2025
LS 800: Reflections on Reason and Passion I
Emily O'Brien | Wed 6:30PM – 9:20PM | Online
The first of two core courses that constitute an extended examination of the tension between reason and passion in human experience. This course will emphasize close reading and discussion of works, drawn from different cultures and epochs, that reflect on human passion.
LS 810: Self and Society (Mercy and Regret)
Gary McCarron | Thurs 6:30 PM – 9:20 PM | Online
This course will examine some aspects of the relationship between selfhood, as idea and experience, and social organization. Approaches to the topic will vary, but may involve scientific, social scientific, philosophical and aesthetic perspectives.
LS 819: Selected Topics (Rome Travel Study)
Sasha Colby
This course provides an opportunity for the occasional offering of a seminar course appropriate to the program but on a topic outside the regular courses.
LS 820: Travel Study (Oxford, England)
Sasha Colby
The rigorous study of a topic or theme will be enhanced by international travel and on-site exploration. The course may be offered in academic partnership with other institutions.
LS 829: Directed Study
Please note: LS 829 - Directed Study provides an opportunity for individual study on a topic of the student's choice, under the guidance of one or more faculty members. If you are interested in taking a directed study course please contact our Graduate Program Chair, Emily O'Brien. No more than two such offerings may count toward the GLS master of arts degree.
LS 998: MA Extended Essays
Students will present two of their essays for formal examination in order to satisfy the Simon Fraser University requirements for a master's degree. Graded on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis.
LS 999: MA Project
This course is for students choosing to satisfy part of the requirements for an MA in liberal studies by presenting a project for formal examination. Graded on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis.