Northern Kentucky University

What you'll study

This programme is interdisciplinary and designed to allow you to tailor study across the humanities, social sciences and the arts. Core elements focus on critical thinking, research methods in the humanities, and advanced writing, while elective tracks let you explore areas such as literature, cultural studies, philosophy, history, digital humanities, and public humanities.

• Core seminar in interdisciplinary methods — approaches to cross-disciplinary research, theory formation and scholarly communication.
• Research methods and professional writing — qualitative research methods, archival practice, and advanced academic and public-facing writing.
• Advanced topics in humanities — courses change regularly but commonly include modern and contemporary literature, cultural memory and identity, ethics and political thought, and historiography.
• Digital humanities or media studies — practical tools for text analysis, digital archives, or multimedia scholarship (availability varies).
• Capstone project or thesis — a substantial research project, practicum, or thesis demonstrating integrative interdisciplinary work; students may undertake a professionally oriented project for public audiences.

Students typically complete a mix of 30–36 credit hours (programme length may vary), with requirements met through core courses, electives within the humanities and related departments, and a capstone or thesis. The programme emphasises adaptable research skills, interpretive methods and clear communication so you can apply learning to academic, cultural or community settings.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Typical admissions criteria include a satisfactory undergraduate GPA, submission of official transcripts, and a statement of purpose describing academic and professional goals. Depending on the applicant, the department may request letters of recommendation and a writing sample that demonstrates ability to undertake graduate-level humanities work.

International applicants must meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements. Applicants with diverse academic backgrounds are welcome; those from non-humanities degrees may be asked to complete prerequisite coursework or show evidence of relevant experience or preparation.

Career prospects

Graduates use the programme to advance in a wide range of careers that value critical analysis, research and communication. Common paths include:

• Secondary and post-secondary teaching (including professional development for current educators)
• Public history, museums and cultural heritage roles (curation, interpretation, programme development)
• Publishing, communications, editing and content strategy
• Non-profit and community organisations, including fundraising, outreach and programme coordination
• Government policy, advocacy and public affairs positions where writing and analytical skills are essential
• Further doctoral study in humanities and interdisciplinary fields

The programme’s emphasis on research, writing and interdisciplinary thinking makes graduates competitive for roles that require complex problem-solving and the ability to communicate to specialist and public audiences.

Why study at Northern Kentucky University

Northern Kentucky University offers a supportive, regional campus environment with small seminar-style classes and accessible faculty who work across humanities disciplines. The university’s location near a metropolitan area provides opportunities for internships and partnerships with museums, libraries and cultural organisations in the surrounding region.

The programme is structured to accommodate full-time and part-time students, including professionals balancing work and study. Students benefit from NKU’s research resources, library collections and chances to engage in community-based projects and public scholarship. Faculty mentoring and a flexible curriculum make the degree suitable for those seeking career change, professional advancement or preparation for doctoral study.