Students must take at least two of the following core courses:
MALS600 Nature and Human Nature (3 credits). Addresses the development, status, and understanding of humanity within a larger context, e.g., how writers in various disciplines have defined humanity, nature, and the relationship between the two, or the interaction between humans. (May be repeated for up to 6 credits as topics vary.)
MALS610 Force, Conflict and Change (3 credits). From antiquity to the present, the use of force and the resolution of conflict have been among humanity’s enduring preoccupations. Examines ideas about these issues, and associated questions such as the meaning of “heroism” and “just war.” (May be repeated for up to 9 credits as topics vary.)
MALS619 Science and Society (3 credits). Science and technology permeate almost every aspect of our modern lives. They are entwined with our culture, our intellectual lives, our physical beings, our philosophy, and our economic and political systems. This course explores selected aspects of the intersection of science and our society and the reciprocal nature of the relationship. (May be repeated for up to 9 credits as topics vary.)
MALS622 Interpreting the Past (3 credits). Applies a variety of interdisciplinary perspectives, e.g., archaeology, anthropology, history, literature, philosophy, and religion to explain how and what we learn about the past. (May be repeated for up to 9 credits as topics vary.)
MALS624 Writing in Liberal Studies (3 credits). Provides instruction and practice in the various kinds of writing students may wish to do in the course of the MALS program and beyond. Focuses on one or more specific genres, such as the writing of poetry, fiction, memoirs, or research papers. (May be repeated for up to 6 credits as topics vary.)
MALS625 Film and Society (3 credits). Explores the ways in which films produced within one or more cultures or time periods both reflect and help to shape their social and historical backgrounds. May include the making of films that include this social/historical perspective.
MALS626 Studies in Contemporary Culture (3 credits). Addresses contemporary problems and movements from a multidisciplinary perspective. Examples include artistic, literary, or sociological movements; religious or ethical questions; and political or global issues. (May be repeated for up to 6 credits as topics vary.)
MALS660 On Becoming Human (3 credits). Examines the biological and cultural evolution of humans, focusing on similarities and differences between humans and our closest primate relatives.
Take as many core courses as you like
You can take more than the required two core courses. Additional core courses beyond the requirement will count toward the 30 credits needed to graduate.