Accelerate your studies by beginning a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies degree during your final year as an undergraduate student
The program combines the B.A. in American Studies, which allows you to explore American culture and history, and develop your critical thinking, debate, and clear expository writing skills, with the M.A. in Liberal Studies, where you tailor your graduate study to meet your own areas of need and interest.
Both programs emphasize the diversity of American Society and the experiences of ordinary life as they prepare graduates for careers in education, media, law, government, social work and more.
Highly qualified candidates will complete the program in five years by accelerating undergraduate coursework, and moving on to graduate study in their fourth year.
Admissions Requirements
Candidates must apply for the program by the end of their Junior year.
- 12 credits of residency at SUNY Old Westbury
- Grade point average of 3.25 overall and 3.25 in courses required for the American Studies B.A. degree
- Transfer students’ GPA must meet Old Westbury’s GPA requirements and transfer courses must be calculated along with Old Westbury grades for admission to this program.
- A completed admissions application that includes:
- An essay
- Two letters of reference from faculty
- All college transcripts
Once admitted to the program, candidates must maintain a GPA of 3.25 (overall, in the AS major; and 3.0 once they enter the MALS program) in each semester of study.
During the undergraduate portion of the degree, candidates must meet the requirements of an American Studies major. Those whose GPA falls below 3.25 will be placed on probation and will have one semester to bring up their grades.
Candidates who fail to complete the five-year program will be administratively transferred into the American Studies major, and will graduate with the B.A. degree when they satisfy its requirements.