Dartmouth College

What you'll study

This programme emphasises an interdisciplinary approach to humanities subjects, allowing students to tailor their study around themes such as literature, history, philosophy, cultural studies, languages and the arts. Core work typically involves seminar courses across multiple departments, seminar-based reading and discussion, and a sustained research project or thesis. Typical modules and course topics include:

• Modern and comparative literature; close reading and critical theory
• Intellectual history and historiography; methods in historical research
• Contemporary and classical philosophy; ethics and political thought
• Cultural studies, media and visual culture; theory and practice
• Language study and translation theory (where relevant to the student’s focus)
• Research methods and practicum in archival research, digital humanities tools, or public humanities

Programme structure is typically seminar-driven with a combination of core interdisciplinary seminars and electives drawn from Dartmouth’s liberal arts departments. Students work closely with faculty advisors to design a coherent programme of study. The degree culminates in either a substantial research thesis or a capstone project that demonstrates original scholarship and integrative thinking across fields.

Entry requirements

Applicants are usually expected to hold a recognised undergraduate degree in the humanities or a related discipline, or demonstrate equivalent preparation and maturity for graduate-level work. Admissions typically consider the following materials:

• Official transcripts demonstrating academic achievement at undergraduate level
• A personal statement or statement of purpose outlining academic interests, intended focus within the humanities, and reasons for choosing the programme
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to intellectual promise and readiness for graduate study
• A writing sample that demonstrates ability to engage with primary texts and scholarly argumentation

Standardised tests are not universally required; consult the programme for current testing policy. Relevant professional experience, interdisciplinary interests, or prior research can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates of this master's build advanced skills in critical thinking, research, writing and oral communication that are valuable across many sectors. Common career paths include:

• Academic progression, including preparation for doctoral study in humanities disciplines
• Teaching at secondary level or in adult education and outreach
• Publishing, journalism and editorial roles
• Museums, cultural institutions and arts administration
• Public policy, non-profit leadership and advocacy where analysis and communication are central
• Research roles in think‑tanks or organisations requiring qualitative analysis and synthesis

The programme’s emphasis on close supervision and interdisciplinary breadth also supports transferable skills sought by employers in both the private and public sectors.

Why study at Dartmouth College

Dartmouth offers a small-college environment within an Ivy League context, emphasising seminar-style teaching and close faculty mentorship. Students benefit from access to extensive library collections, special collections and archives, and specialised resources such as the Hood Museum of Art and the Dartmouth Centre for the Humanities. The college’s strong liberal-arts culture encourages cross-department collaboration, enabling students to take courses across literature, history, philosophy and related fields.

Additionally, Dartmouth’s supportive academic community, opportunities for public-facing scholarship and a network of alumni in cultural and academic sectors make it a favourable setting for students seeking both rigorous intellectual development and practical career preparation.