Programs for International Students
Dual Degree Program (BS/BA + MS/MA)
Master of Liberal Arts
Program Profile: Penn's Master of Liberal Arts (MLA) is an interdisciplinary master's degree in which students create an individualized course of study within the arts and sciences designed around a theme of their own choosing. In addition to participating in stimulating seminars taught by renowned faculty, students are able to take advantage of the rich academic resources available to you at the University of Pennsylvania, including a world-class research library, a full array of resources for students and a vibrant intellectual community. The MLA program sponsors an active listserv, which distributes information on special events, job openings, and program news to current students and alumni.
Student Profile: MLA students have wide-ranging interests and diverse academic, professional and personal backgrounds. MLA students at Penn are part of a vibrant intellectual community that encourages them to learn multiple approaches to exploring an area of interest, and to develop the skills and knowledge to understand issues from varying perspectives.
Curriculum: Each student designs an individualized curriculum of nine courses that centers on a stated theme. The series of courses must include at least one MLA Proseminar plus graduate-level courses from any department within the School of Arts & Sciences. There are several established concentrations leading to certificates, around which many MLA students have developed their coursework. A sampling of certificate areas includes: Cinema Studies, Urban Studies, East Asian Studies, Public Culture, Women's Studies. To earn the degree, students also complete an independent research or creative Capstone project with a faculty advisor. The Capstone Project is the culmination of the MLA student's multidisciplinary graduate study.
Program Length: One to two years of full-time study.
Application: Applications must contain all of the following in order to be considered complete:
- Completed application
- Current resume
- Non-refundable application fee of $70.00 (Make checks payable to the Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania)
- Application essays
- Official transcripts from each post-secondary school attended
- Score reports for standardized tests, if applicable
- Two letters of recommendation
Click here for more detailed information on these requirements.
Tuition: Approximate tuition costs for the 9 course units in this program are $26,000. Click here for more detailed information.