Online Master's in Liberal Arts

Updated February 22, 2026 Table of Contents

Online master’s programs in liberal arts are designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree and want advanced training. Programs may emphasize specialized practice areas, leadership, or advanced methods depending on the school.

This page explains how master’s programs are structured, what coursework typically includes, and what to compare across schools.

$56,095Median Earnings (1yr)College Scorecard
$40,684Median DebtCollege Scorecard
60.6%Programs OnlineCollege Scorecard

Quick answers

What is an online master’s in liberal arts?

It is a graduate-level program that builds advanced liberal arts knowledge through online coursework.

What degree titles are common?

Common options include MA, depending on the institution and focus.

What types of master’s-level liberal arts programs are common?

Common options include general master’s programs, specialized tracks, and programs with elective concentrations.

What is typically included in the curriculum?

Most programs include a shared core before electives or concentrations, plus a capstone or thesis option.

What do admissions requirements usually include?

Most programs require a completed bachelor’s degree. Common elements include transcripts, a resume, and written statements.

What online formats and pacing options are common?

Programs may use standard term schedules, accelerated shorter terms, or part-time options with lighter course loads.

At a Glance

  • Degree type: Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Liberal Studies (MLS)
  • Typical duration: 1-2 years full-time
  • Credits: ~30-36 semester hours
  • Online availability: 60.6% of programs offered online (College Scorecard)
  • Median debt: $40,684 (College Scorecard)

Schools to compare

How we rank schools: Rankings are based on available IPEDS and College Scorecard data including graduation rate, admission rate, program availability, completions, and published tuition. Data is informational only—always confirm details directly with each school.

#1

Rochester Institute of Technology

Rochester, NY In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 71%
Graduation rate 72%
Tuition
In‑state$57,016
Out‑of‑state$57,016
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 45

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#2

Pennsylvania College of Technology

Williamsport, PA In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 50%
Tuition
In‑state$17,940
Out‑of‑state$25,680
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 79

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#3

University of California-Irvine

Irvine, CA In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 26%
Graduation rate 86%
Tuition
In‑state$14,237
Out‑of‑state$45,014
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 9

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#4

Iowa State University

Ames, IA In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 89%
Graduation rate 75%
Tuition
In‑state$10,497
Out‑of‑state$27,683
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 26

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#5

Arkansas Tech University

Russellville, AR In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 96%
Graduation rate 49%
Tuition
In‑state$8,508
Out‑of‑state$14,502
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 61

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#6

Seminole State College of Florida

Sanford, FL In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 43%
Tuition
In‑state$3,227
Out‑of‑state$11,447
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 72

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#7

Palm Beach State College

Lake Worth, FL In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 41%
Tuition
In‑state$3,050
Out‑of‑state$10,910
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 98

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#8

Temple University

Philadelphia, PA In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 83%
Graduation rate 76%
Tuition
In‑state$22,082
Out‑of‑state$37,462
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 42

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

Typical topics in a master’s program

Course TopicWhat You Learn
Advanced SeminarsDeep analysis of literature, philosophy, or history
Research MethodsQualitative and quantitative research design
Interdisciplinary StudiesCross-disciplinary analysis and synthesis
Thesis or CapstoneOriginal research project or applied capstone
Elective SpecializationFocused study in a chosen discipline area

Skills and outcomes to compare

Outcomes vary by program, but you can compare:

  • Depth of specialization or practice area coverage
  • Applied project or practicum requirements
  • Research expectations or thesis options
  • Leadership, policy, or advanced method focus

For pacing and delivery comparisons, see: Online Course Formats

How to compare online master’s programs

  1. Identify the program type (general, specialized, or concentration-based).
  2. Review core curriculum and capstone requirements.
  3. Check concentrations and electives that fit your interests.
  4. Confirm admissions expectations and prerequisites.
  5. Compare online format and pacing options.
  6. Verify institutional accreditation before applying.

Admissions requirements

Requirements vary by school, but most programs require a completed bachelor’s degree. Common elements include transcripts, a resume, and written statements. Some programs may request prerequisites or professional experience.

Master’s programs in liberal arts (MLS or ALM) are among the most interdisciplinary graduate degrees available. Unlike discipline-specific master’s degrees, they allow you to design a course of study across multiple fields.

Master’s vs other liberal arts degree levels

LevelTypical Credits1yr Median Earnings5yr Median EarningsMedian Debt
CertificateVaries$27,348$43,480$11,206
Associate60$27,317$40,752$11,437
Bachelor’s120$37,266$50,446$23,558
Master’s30-36$56,095$68,580$40,684

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, latest academic year.

Back to Online Liberal Arts Degree Guide

Return to Online Liberal Arts Degree Guide