Master of Arts in Liberal Studies at SFU
Classic books. Contemporary issues.
Join a diverse, interdisciplinary cohort of students in completing your M.A. part-time through live Zoom, in-person, or travel seminars (Oxford & Spain).
Fall 2023 applications now open for the Graduate Liberal Studies program at Simon Fraser University.
The Graduate Liberal Studies (GLS) master of arts program is designed for part-time students to engage with graduate-level discussion and thought through part-time courses. Our interdiscplinary cohorts include students who are working, retired, or simply looking to further their academic studies at a graduate level.
Fall 2023 remote cohort
Our Fall 2023 cohort will be online, giving you the flexibility to complete your degree through live Zoom or in-person seminars. We also provide travel seminars with partnered institutions, including Oxford University. The program will include two recommended in-person instructional and social weekends at SFU Vancouver, one each in fall and spring.
Why Liberal Studies?
GLS is for individuals who wish to expand their intellectual horizons through graduate level study in an atmosphere that is cooperative, respectful and challenging. The program differs from conventional graduate programs in three ways:
Breadth
GLS focuses on breadth of learning, integrating knowledge from many of the traditional disciplines in order to provide an intellectual grounding in ideas and values that have shaped our culture.
Flexibility
GLS is designed for the working adult, the part-time student. Seminars are scheduled during evening and weekend hours at SFU's downtown campus, and the degree can be completed over a period of over three to four years.
Community
The program emphasizes a community of inquiry and discussion in addition to independent research. Our seminars, designed especially for GLS, are taught by faculty members chosen for their enthusiasm for teaching adults.
Travel Study
GLS students have many opportunities to participate in full-credit field school courses organized by Simon Fraser University (SFU) or by other universities with GLS programs.
Got a question?
Contact the GLS office at glsp@sfu.ca.