The culmination of the degree program is the completion of a final graduate project. With the direction of a faculty mentor and the support of a liberal studies seminar, students apply the knowledge they have acquired in the program when designing and executing their project. The project may be a research study such as a traditional thesis or a creative work supported by a critical or theoretical essay. The masterworks courses, offered fall, spring, and summer terms, meet one evening a week for five weeks and count as one-third of a full course. The liberal studies seminar is offered each spring term for 4 credit units.
Core courses are open only to degree-seeking students.
Elective and masterworks courses are open to other qualified students as space permits. Our students represent a variety of academic backgrounds and life and work experiences. They are motivated by a strong desire for continuing intellectual growth provided by reading, discussing, and sharing ideas with others. Many have returned to college to fill the gaps in their learning that occurred at the undergraduate level or since they completed their undergraduate education. A diverse student body that includes individuals in business, the arts, and the professions enriches class discussions.