University of Memphis

What you'll study

This programme is built around interdisciplinary study in the humanities, social sciences and arts. Students typically take core seminars that emphasise critical theory, research methods and advanced writing, then choose elective modules across departments such as history, literature, philosophy, cultural studies, media studies, anthropology, political science and fine arts. Study options commonly include:

• Seminars in contemporary theory and methods for the liberal arts
• Advanced readings courses in literature, philosophy and cultural criticism
• Courses on public humanities, memory and heritage, and museum studies
• Modules in digital humanities, research design and qualitative methods
• Electives that allow focused study in areas such as gender studies, urban studies, southern studies, or creative writing

Students complete the programme through a combination of coursework and an integrative capstone, which may take the form of a thesis, a major research project, or a professionally oriented portfolio. The programme often offers flexibility in pacing, allowing students to study full‑time or part‑time and to draw on courses across university departments.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution. Admissions decisions are based on the overall academic record, the relevance of previous study, and the fit between the candidate’s interests and the programme’s interdisciplinary focus. Typical application materials include:

• Official undergraduate transcripts
• A personal statement or statement of purpose that outlines academic interests and proposed areas of study
• Letters of recommendation, usually two or three academic or professional references
• A current CV or résumé
• A writing sample or portfolio if applying with a humanities or creative focus

Standardised test scores (such as the GRE) may be optional or considered on a case‑by‑case basis; international applicants must meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements. The programme values applicants from diverse academic backgrounds and often welcomes students with professional experience as well as recent graduates.

Career prospects

The degree prepares graduates for a wide range of careers that require strong analytical, research and communication skills. Common career paths include:

• Education and academic support roles, including further postgraduate study (MA conversion, PhD, or professional training)
• Policy, research and analysis positions in government and think tanks
• Nonprofit and community organisations, especially roles in programming, outreach and development
• Cultural institutions such as museums, archives and libraries, in curation, interpretation or collections management
• Publishing, journalism, communications and marketing
• Arts administration, public history and heritage management

Graduates also use the programme as preparation for careers that value critical thinking and interdisciplinary perspectives, or as a foundation for professional degrees in law, public policy, or business.

Why study at University of Memphis

The University of Memphis offers an urban campus with close links to the cultural life and public institutions of the Mid‑South, providing practical opportunities for internships, community projects and collaborative research. The programme’s interdisciplinary structure draws on faculty across humanities and social science departments, giving students access to a broad range of expertise and resources.

Students benefit from flexible study options, small seminar classes, and opportunities to work on applied projects with local museums, archives and arts organisations. The university supports graduate students with advising, research resources including special collections and library services, and professional development workshops to prepare students for both academic and non‑academic careers.