Prospective students
Breadth. Flexibility. Community.
Are you ready to further your academic studies at a graduate level? Our master of arts program is designed for working students to engage with graduate-level discussion and thought through part-time courses online or at Simon Fraser University (SFU)'s Harbour Centre, located in the heart of downtown Vancouver. Simon Fraser University (SFU)’s Graduate Liberal Studies program develops personal growth, educational enrichment and the acquirement of specific skill sets that can be applied in real world situations.
Specific skills developed in liberal studies
Critical and creative thinking
Students will add to their critical thinking skills by critically analyzing both primary and secondary source texts, exploring evidence, arguments and opposing interpretations and by challenging assumptions. The interdisciplinary focus of the program encourages creative, non-linear thinking.
Communication skills
Students will improve communication skills by participating in discussion-focused seminars, preparing and delivering oral presentations and by leading seminar discussions. They will improve their abilities to pose meaningful questions that advance understanding and knowledge, their ability to cooperate with others and work in diverse teams.
Personal development
The respectful, discussion-based format of the GLS seminar-style classes encourage the development of self-confidence and self-understanding in our student body. Our diverse course offerings allow students to pursue an academic path suited to better understanding themselves and their place in their world.
Research and analytical Skills
Students will gain and/or enhance research skills, such as defining a research question, conducting library and web research and sharing research with fellow students.
Project management
Students are challenged to define and meet goals, manage time, and complete their projects successfully.
Advanced writing skills
Students will be given opportunities to express themselves in a variety of forms including written essays, reflective journals, creative writing, visual arts, and a graduating project.
What our students say about GLS
"GLS opened new avenues for me at a time when I was becoming intellectually and professionally restless."
"GLS changed my direction completely. After a PhD and two post-docs I am now a senior research fellow in a field I didn’t know existed before GLS."
Liberal Studies Offers Breadth, Flexibility and Community
Graduate Liberal Studies (GLS) is for individuals who wish to expand their intellectual horizons through graduate level study in an atmosphere that is cooperative, respectful and challenging. The program differs from conventional graduate programs in three ways:
Breadth
GLS focuses on breadth of learning, integrating knowledge from many of the traditional disciplines in order to provide an intellectual grounding in ideas and values that have shaped our culture.
Flexibility
GLS is designed for the working adult, the part-time student. Seminars are scheduled during evening and weekend hours at SFU's downtown campus, and the degree can be completed over a period of over three to four years.
Community
The program emphasizes a community of inquiry and discussion in addition to independent research. Our seminars, designed especially for GLS, are taught by faculty members chosen for their enthusiasm for teaching adults.
Networking
A master of arts degree is sought after by many employers, and an MA in liberal studies can increase these opportunities by demonstrating the applicant's ability to learn and synergise information gleaned in multiple disciplines and sources.
For students who are looking to gain an edge in their career after the completion of the Graduate Liberal Studies (GLS) master's program, our seminars, dinners and socials, and cohort environment provide ample opportunity to network with fellow GLS students.
Our students and alumni include those from a diverse range of career backgrounds, including, but not limited to:
- Executive level leadership
- Business and finance
- Law
- Communications and marketing
- Fine arts and theatre
- Teaching and education
- Art and design
- Journalism
Academic opportunities
Many of our graduates choose to continue along an academic path in pursuit of a PhD.
A master of arts in liberal studies positions these students with the intellectual and technical skill sets necessary to engage in further research at a doctoral level, either within the GLS home through the special arrangements department, or elsewhere.
Travel Study
GLS students have many opportunities to participate in full-credit field school courses organized by Simon Fraser University (SFU) or by other universities with GLS programs.
Got a question?
Contact the GLS office at glsp@sfu.ca.