Best Master's In Liberal Studies Degrees

A ranking of the best master's degrees in Liberal Studies. Programs ranked by affordability, flexibility, quality student services,
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Updated May 18, 2023

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Sharpen career skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication through one of the best master's in Liberal Studies.

A master's degree in Liberal Studies is not your typical graduate degree. While most graduate degrees are highly specialized, master's programs in Liberal Studies emphasize the importance of developing a broad range of skills and knowledge.

These programs focus on vital skills like critical and analytical thinking, communication, problem-solving, and creativity. Not only are these in-demand skills, but these are also skills that can't be replaced by technology. Plus, the vital skills developed in liberal arts programs may be neglected in more specialized degree programs.

With a master's degree in Liberal Studies, you can go into business, education, government, or further study through a doctoral program. Expand your horizons and set yourself up for a successful career with a Liberal Studies degree from any of the programs below.

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What kind of master's degree in Liberal Studies should you get?

Liberal Studies programs are highly customizable. In many cases, you'll create your own degree plan based on your interests and career goals. You may choose to focus on literature, religion, democracy, public policy, or a specific period of history.

At the start, you may not know exactly what direction you'd like to take, and that's fine. The interdisciplinary course offerings help many students unlock new skills and discover new passions.

Master's programs in Liberal Studies are available on campus or online. The best route for you depends on your personal learning style and preferences. Of course, taking online classes allows you to work around your schedule, learning and studying at your convenience. If you're interested in online study, check out our list of the Best Online Colleges.

How much money do people make with a master's degree in Liberal Studies?

This is a difficult question to answer because every customizable Liberal Studies degree is different. Depending on the courses you take, the degree can be applied to a vast range of careers. Below, we'll look at just a few possibilities and their median salary (per the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

As you can see, your potential salary range is as diverse as your career options. In addition, demand in most of these careers is growing as fast or faster than average.

What can you do with a master's degree in Liberal Studies?

Almost anything! With the exception of careers that require highly specialized degrees, a master's in Liberal Studies provides the foundational skills needed to succeed in just about any line of work.

You can teach, manage a business, work in sales or advertising, or pursue a career in human resources. You'll be suited for any career that requires critical and analytical thinking, creativity, communication, and problem-solving (the same skills that many graduates lack). You may also be interested in earning your doctorate degree!

What are the best master's in Liberal Studies degrees?

To jumpstart your program search, we've put together a list of the five best master's in Liberal Studies. These programs were selected based on school reputation, tuition costs, the overall return on investment, and accreditation.

To ensure we're suggesting the best of the best, we've pulled data from trusted sources like:

You can trust that by earning a master's in Liberal Studies from any of these programs, you'll build a solid foundation of in-demand career skills. After that, the possibilities are nearly endless.

#1 Best Master’s In Liberal Studies Degrees

Georgetown University

  • Washington, DC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Georgetown University offers several career-focused graduate programs, including a master of arts in liberal studies. From its Washington campus, the private institution offers graduate programs in several enrollment formats, including online options designed for working professionals. The program's graduate-level curriculum encourages learners to strengthen their liberal arts skills.

College resources and support services help master's candidates get the most out of graduate school. Academic advisors help with course selections, while financial aid counselors recommend grants and scholarships to pay for a master's degree. Enrollees can also take advantage of tutoring, mental health counseling, and library services.

Georgetown University at a Glance:

Total Master's Programs: 87

Total Online Master's Programs: 7

Admission Rate: 14%

Graduation Rate: 95%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1

Graduate Tuition In State: $51,336

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $51,336

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $81,100

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,440
Out-of-state
$55,440
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$51,336
Out-of-state
$51,336
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
14%
Students Enrolled
19,593
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
15% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#2 Best Master’s In Liberal Studies Degrees

Kent State University at Kent

  • Kent, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students seeking career advancement benefit from the master of liberal studies at Kent State University at Kent. From its Kent, Ohio, campus, the public institution offers graduate programs in several enrollment formats, including online options designed for working professionals. During the program, learners complete a challenging, graduate-level curriculum that builds an advanced understanding of liberal studies.

College resources and support services help master's candidates complete their degree and plan their next steps. Financial aid advisors connect students with resources to pay for graduate school, while academic advisors recommend course selections. Master's degree-seekers can also take advantage of training and networking events.

Kent State University at Kent at a Glance:

Total Master's Programs: 104

Total Online Master's Programs: 23

Admission Rate: 86%

Graduation Rate: 62%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1

Graduate Tuition In State: $11,766

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,952

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $33,500

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,602
Out-of-state
$19,478
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,766
Out-of-state
$21,952
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
27,716
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Best Master’s In Liberal Studies Degrees

University of Toledo

  • Toledo, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

University of Toledo offers a top-ranked master of liberal studies as one of its 111 master's degrees. Students gain advanced knowledge and skills in the program. Candidates benefit from flexible enrollment options, including schedules designed for full-time professionals.

Master's candidates take challenging courses that strengthen theoretical and practical knowledge. Internships and hands-on learning opportunities encourage students to gain varied experience while building professional connections. Concentrations and electives let learners individualize the program based on their interests and professional goals.

University of Toledo at a Glance:

Location: Toledo, Ohio

School Type: Public

Admission Rate: 96%

Graduate Tuition In State: $14,047

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,649

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 95%

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $6,964

Average Price After Aid: $17,822

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,449
Out-of-state
$17,809
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,047
Out-of-state
$24,649
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
96%
Students Enrolled
19,694
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
40% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 Best Master’s In Liberal Studies Degrees

Clayton State University

  • Morrow, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

For students looking to advance their career, Clayton State University hosts a master of arts in liberal studies. From its Morrow, Georgia, campus, the public institution enrolls degree-seekers with a variety of options, including online delivery formats. Master's degree-seekers complete a rigorous curriculum that builds on their undergraduate training.

College resources and support services help master's candidates participate fully in campus life and meet graduation requirements. Financial aid advisors recommend scholarships and grants, while academic advisors help with course selections. Enrollees can also take advantage of career counseling, writing tutoring, and extensive library services.

Clayton State University at a Glance:

Total Master's Programs: 10

Total Online Master's Programs: 3

Admission Rate: 51%

Graduation Rate: 30%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1

Graduate Tuition In State: $5,760

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,411

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $35,900

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,064
Out-of-state
$14,786
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,760
Out-of-state
$12,411
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
6,879
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
58% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

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