Benedictine University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary master's focuses on the humanities, cultural studies and liberal arts methods. Core themes include critical theory, research methods in the humanities, intellectual history, ethics, and advanced writing. Students choose from a range of elective modules that may cover subjects such as literature and cultural criticism, philosophy, visual and media studies, history, public humanities, digital humanities, and interdisciplinary approaches to contemporary social issues.

The programme typically combines required core seminars with elective courses and a culminating project. Common components are:

• Seminars in interdisciplinary theory — advanced engagement with major theoretical traditions and their application to humanities research.
• Research methods — qualitative research, archival methods, oral history, and digital tools for humanities scholarship.
• Capstone project or thesis — a sustained research project, creative portfolio or practicum that demonstrates mastery of the chosen field.
• Electives — courses enabling specialisation in areas such as literary studies, ethics and public policy, cultural heritage, media and communication, or pedagogy.

Delivery is student-centred and often offers evening, weekend or online options to accommodate working professionals. Class sizes are typically small, emphasising seminar discussion, faculty mentorship and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold an accredited bachelor’s degree. Typical application materials include:

• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• A personal statement or statement of purpose outlining academic and professional goals and reasons for pursuing the degree.
• One or two academic or professional letters of recommendation.
• A current CV or résumé documenting relevant education and work experience.

Some applicants may be invited for an interview. For applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English language proficiency is usually required via an accepted test or equivalent evidence. Admissions may consider relevant professional experience for candidates who do not meet standard academic thresholds.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme move into a wide range of careers where strong analytical, communicative and research skills are valued. Common paths include:

• Education and training — secondary or adult education, curriculum development, educational administration, and preparation for doctoral study.
• Non-profit and public sector roles — programme management, community engagement, policy research and advocacy.
• Communications and media — writing, editing, content strategy, public relations and cultural programming.
• Museums, archives and cultural heritage — collections management, interpretive planning and public programming.
• Business and consulting — roles that require critical thinking, project management and clear written and oral communication.

The degree also provides a strong foundation for those pursuing PhD study in humanities and social sciences.

Why study at Benedictine University

Benedictine University offers a learning environment informed by liberal arts traditions and Benedictine values, emphasising ethical reflection and community engagement. The university is known for small class sizes, close faculty mentoring and flexible course delivery that suits working adults. Students benefit from multidisciplinary faculty expertise and opportunities to connect with cultural and professional resources in the region.

The programme’s flexible scheduling and degree pathways make it accessible to part-time students and professionals, and the university provides academic advising and career services to help translate graduate study into professional advancement. The emphasis on applied research and a capstone project ensures graduates leave with a substantive portfolio of work relevant to employers or doctoral programmes.