Widener University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary programme combines advanced study in humanities and general liberal arts with methodological training and a project-based capstone. Students work with faculty to build a customised course plan that typically includes core seminars in interdisciplinary theory and research methods, elective modules drawn from literature, history, philosophy, cultural studies and social sciences, and options in digital humanities, public humanities or pedagogy.

• Core seminars: interdisciplinary approaches to inquiry, research design, and contemporary debates in the humanities.
• Research methods: qualitative methods, archival work, textual analysis, and introduction to digital research tools where relevant.
• Electives: subjects such as literary studies, intellectual history, cultural theory, ethics, media studies, museum studies and regional history.
• Capstone or thesis: a substantial applied project, practicum or research thesis that integrates coursework and demonstrates mastery of chosen topics.
• Flexible delivery: courses are commonly offered in the evening, with hybrid and online formats available to support part-time students and working professionals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold an accredited undergraduate degree in any discipline and to demonstrate readiness for graduate-level study. Typical application materials include an academic transcript, a personal statement outlining academic and professional goals, a current résumé or CV, and one or two academic or professional references. Candidates may be interviewed as part of the admissions process.

International applicants must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements and provide equivalent documentation of prior study. Relevant professional experience, a strong academic record, and a clear plan for how the programme will meet career or research objectives strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates develop transferable skills prized across multiple sectors: critical analysis, advanced writing, research design and project management. Common career paths include:

• Education and academic support roles, including community education and adult learning.
• Public service and non-profit organisations, especially in programme development, grant writing and advocacy.
• Museums, archives and cultural institutions, in curation, interpretation and public programming.
• Communications, publishing, media and content strategy roles that rely on strong research and writing skills.
• Further academic study, including doctoral research in humanities and interdisciplinary fields.

Why study at Widener University

Widener offers a small-class environment that emphasises close faculty mentoring and an individually tailored curriculum, making it suitable for students who value personalised academic support. The programme’s flexible scheduling and mix of delivery formats accommodate working professionals and part-time learners. Widener’s location in the Philadelphia metropolitan region also gives students access to a wide range of cultural institutions, archives and internship opportunities, while the university's career services and alumni network support professional development and job placement.