Lesley University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary master’s emphasises breadth and intellectual integration across the humanities and liberal arts. You will take core seminars in research methods and theory alongside elective modules chosen to build a coherent programme of study tailored to your interests. Typical course topics include:

• Research Methods and Scholarly Writing in the Humanities
• Literary and Cultural Theory
• Histories of Art, Literature and Intellectual Thought
• Philosophy, Ethics and Critical Reasoning
• Digital Humanities and Methods for Textual Analysis
• Interdisciplinary Topics such as Memory Studies, Migration and Identity, or Media and Society

Programme structure is flexible and generally combines seminar-style coursework with an independent project. Students often complete a capstone such as a thesis, practicum, or substantial research project that demonstrates original synthesis across disciplines. Faculty advising supports personalised pathways, enabling combinations of theory, archival research, applied humanities, and professional development units.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised undergraduate degree. Typical admission materials include:

• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
• A personal statement that outlines academic interests and goals for the master’s
• A current résumé or curriculum vitae
• Letters of recommendation (usually one to three) from academic or professional referees
• Selected writing sample that demonstrates analytical and writing ability

International applicants will be asked to demonstrate English language proficiency according to the university's published requirements. Admissions decisions consider academic preparation, the fit between applicant interests and faculty expertise, and the capacity to pursue independent interdisciplinary work.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme develop transferable skills valued across sectors: critical analysis, research, advanced writing, project design and interdisciplinary problem solving. Common career paths include:

• Secondary and adult education, curriculum development and educational programme coordination
• Museum, archives and cultural heritage roles including curation, interpretation and public programmes
• Publishing, editing, communications, grant writing and content strategy
• Non-profit and public sector work in advocacy, community engagement and policy research
• Further academic study such as doctoral programmes in humanities disciplines or interdisciplinary research degrees

Many students also combine this degree with part-time or continuing professional roles, using their capstone projects to build sector-specific expertise and professional networks.

Why study at Lesley University

Lesley University is known for small seminar-style classes and close faculty mentoring, which suits an interdisciplinary liberal-arts education that emphasises individualised study plans. The university’s location near Boston and Cambridge provides access to rich research collections, museums and cultural organisations, and fosters opportunities for internships and partnerships. Faculty in the humanities often have active research agendas and professional experience in education, public humanities, and cultural institutions, allowing students to combine scholarly study with applied projects. The programme’s flexible structure accommodates students coming from diverse professional backgrounds and supports both career changers and those preparing for doctoral study.