University of Southern Indiana

What you'll study

The programme focuses on interdisciplinary study within the liberal arts and humanities. Core elements combine theoretical perspectives, methodological training and applied projects. Teaching is delivered through seminars, research workshops and guided independent study.

• Interdisciplinary theory and methods — courses introducing approaches to cultural analysis, comparative inquiry and methods for qualitative research in the humanities and social sciences.
• Humanities concentrations — elective modules in areas such as literature, history, philosophy, cultural studies, digital humanities, and ethics, allowing students to tailor the degree to specific interests.
• General studies and professional skills — modules emphasising writing, rhetoric, public scholarship, grant-writing, and communication skills transferable to a wide range of careers.
• Capstone or thesis — a sustained research project or creative/curatorial capstone that synthesises interdisciplinary learning and demonstrates mastery of a chosen topic.
• Optional experiential components — practicum, internship or community-engaged project in local cultural organisations, museums, archives or non-profit settings (availability varies by semester).

Programme pathways are flexible and commonly allow part-time study and evening or hybrid course options to accommodate working students. Assessment typically includes essays, seminar presentations, portfolio work and a final research thesis or capstone project.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Admissions consider the overall academic record and the relevance of prior study or professional experience to the proposed programme of graduate study. Typical application materials include:

• Official undergraduate transcripts
• A personal statement or statement of purpose outlining academic interests and reasons for pursuing the degree
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees
• A CV or résumé detailing relevant academic, professional or creative experience

Some applicants may be invited to interview. Standardised tests are not universally required; applicants should consult the faculty or programme office about specific requirements, transfer credit policies and whether any preparatory coursework is recommended.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with advanced critical thinking, research and communication skills valued across multiple sectors. Common career directions include:

• Education and academic pathways — positions in teaching, curriculum development, academic support, or progression to doctoral study.
• Public humanities and cultural sectors — roles in museums, archives, libraries, cultural programming, heritage organisations and arts administration.
• Non-profit and public service — programme coordination, community engagement, policy research and advocacy roles.
• Communications, publishing and media — writing, editing, content development, and roles that require strong analytical and narrative skills.
• Business and consultancy — research, training, organisational development and leadership roles that benefit from broad-based analytical perspectives.

Alumni frequently combine the degree with practical experience (internships, fellowships or community projects) to move into specialist positions or to prepare for further graduate study.

Why study at University of Southern Indiana

University of Southern Indiana offers a student-centred learning environment with small seminar sizes and accessible faculty who work across disciplines. The institution emphasises applied liberal-arts learning and community engagement, providing opportunities to connect coursework with regional cultural organisations, archives and public programmes. Flexible delivery and advising support help accommodate part-time and working students, while interdisciplinary collaboration across departments allows you to design a programme that matches your intellectual and professional goals.