School of Visual and Performing Arts
M.A. in Liberal Studies
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do I need to take the GRE?
A. No.
Q. When can I enter the program?
A. The application deadline for Fall admission is May 1st. The application deadline for
Spring admission is November 1st.
Q. Can I take courses even if I have not been admitted to the Program?
A. Yes. A student can take up to six credits (two classes) on a non-matriculated basis.
Once the student is officially admitted to the Program, these credits will count toward
his or her degree.
Q. Do I need a minimum undergraduate GPA to be admitted to the Program?
A. A 3.00 GPA is the program standard, but exceptions have been made in some cases.
Q. Do I need to maintain a minimum GPA in the program?
A. Yes. A graduate student must maintain a 3.00 average.
Q. How many classes are offered in the Summer?
A. There are typically two classes offered.
Q. How long does it take to complete the program? When are the classes held?
A. It usually takes 2 to 5 years to complete the program; all classes are in the evening,
5:00 – 7:40 or 7:50 – 10:30.
Q. What is the cost per semester hour for NJ residents? For non-residents?
A. A. Tuition for the 2007-2008 academic year is $391 for residents and $530 for non-residents per semester hour.
Q. What subjects are covered in the program?
A. As an interdisciplinary, multicultural program, MALS includes the subjects of art,
film, history, literature, music, philosophy, political science, psychology, sociology,
and religion.
Q. What will MALS do for my career?
A. Teachers, business people, professionals, and individuals with a desire to learn more
about the ideas that have formed our global community will find that MALS gives
them a broad interdisciplinary outlook and enriches their knowledge of many cultures
and their interrelationships. A liberal arts background has always been valuable in
any career because it increases understanding of the world, sharpens writing ability,
and enhances communication, analytical, and verbal skills.
Q. Are there exams in the courses?
A. In most cases, a final paper due the end of the semester substitutes for an exam.
Q. Are there any required courses?
A. Yes. Each student must take the introductory seminar, MALS 5210, which is only
offered in the Fall, and both parts of the Advanced Interdisciplinary Seminar. The
first part (MALS 5290) is only offered in the Fall and the second part (MALS 5291),
which is the course in which students complete their final projects, is only offered in
the Spring.
Q. Are there any other requirements?
A. Yes. Students must take six courses in either the American Studies, the European
Studies, or the Modern World concentration, as well as two additional courses in any
concentration.
Q. Is financial aid available? Are there scholarship possibilities?
A. Yes. Scholarships and financial aid applications must be submitted by March 15 for the following academic year. Please contact the financial aid office (908-737-3190) or David Farrokh (908-737-3481) of scholarship services for more information.
Q. Is there a comprehensive examination?
A. Yes. To complete their degree, MALS students must pass a three-hour exam.
Q. Is a thesis or final project required?
A. Yes. This is typically a substantial (35+ page) research essay; however, a
creative final project is an option.