Antioch University

What you'll study

The program begins with three Foundations courses (9 credits) that introduce the self-design process and research methods, culminating in an individualized degree plan developed with a chosen mentor. Students then take 7–8 specialization courses (21–24 credits) comprising seminars and individualized courses they design with instructors. To finish, students complete either a 3-credit Capstone or a 6-credit Thesis and submit a Master’s Portfolio (0 credits) that documents learning and program outcomes.

• Master’s Portfolio (required, 0 credits) with work demonstrating critical thinking, interdisciplinary synthesis, research design/implementation, disciplinary mastery, and work advancing social/economic/environmental justice.
• 3 Foundations courses (9 credits) to learn self-design and research methods and create the individualized plan.
• 7–8 Specialization courses (21–24 credits) chosen or created with faculty.
• Capstone (3 credits) or Thesis (6 credits).

Sample specializations offered include: Education and Human Development; Conflict Resolution; Management of Human and Natural Systems; or a self-created specialization.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution or an institution recognized by regional accreditation. Antioch Online accepts degrees earned under the Bologna Declaration. Official transcripts of all academic work are required. Exceptions and international degrees may be reviewed case‑by‑case using faculty professional judgment. The online application process has no application fee and two current professional references (one from a professor) are optional.

Career prospects

Graduates emerge with an interdisciplinary master’s grounded in a customized concentration, research skills, and applied projects documented in a portfolio. This structure suits careers in education, community and social services, conflict resolution, program management, policy-adjacent roles, or further academic study, depending on the specialization and individualized coursework chosen.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Antioch offers the President’s Merit Scholarship to new master’s students who meet criteria including a minimum 3.40 GPA and relevant work/life experience. The award is $6,000 distributed equally over the first two academic years, requires full-time enrollment, termly academic progress reviews, and completion of all registered courses to continue receiving funds. The program also supports transfer credits and pathway options that can shorten time and cost to degree.