Frequently Asked Questions

Who benefits from this type of master's program?

  • People who work during the day and/or need a flexible program with numerous scheduling choices; you don't have to quit work to earn a master's.
  • Those who desire a high-quality advanced degree without the predetermined curriculum that more structured majors and minors provide.
  • People who want to bring together perspectives traditionally divided by disciplinary boundaries such as the humanities and health care; business and philosophy; the environment and multiculturalism.
  • Those for whom a master's degree is an important career credential and/or who are searching for personal fulfillment through intellectual advancement.
  • People who want to strengthen their communication skills (writing and speaking) and want to become critical and discerning readers.

What are the program's goals?

  • Sharpen verbal and written skills
  • Broaden general knowledge
  • Strengthen capacity to think critically and creatively
  • Gain insights into the relationships between disciplines, ideas, and historical developments

Does the program provide academic advice or support?
Orientation meetings are conducted for all newly admitted students and extensive student services, including advising and registration assistance, are available to students from their first term to their last. Students choose their own academic advisor when they are approximately halfway through the program.

How is priority determined for space in a particular course?
Priority in MLS seminars is given to students admitted to the MLS degree program. Students not admitted to the program may register on a space-available basis. Students not admitted to a graduate program and who wish to earn graduate credit should call 612-626-8724. Students in master's degree programs at other institutions, or those offered by other University colleges (other than the Graduate School), should check with their graduate studies advisor before registering.

What are the current tuition rates?
Admitted MLS students pay Graduate School tuition rates. For a current rate structure, visit the University of  Minnesota Tuition and Fees Information Web site.

What are my financial aid options?

Federal student loans and work-study: To apply for loans and work-study administered by the University of Minnesota Office of Student Finance (OSF), complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Minimum enrollment is three credits a semester. Apply online at FAFSA on the Web.

Employer tuition assistance/reimbursement: Many employers are willing to subsidize the education of their employees. Contact a company personnel officer for information.

University of Minnesota Tuition Benefits: The Academic Staff Tuition Benefit and Regents Scholarships may be available to University of Minnesota employees. Information is available in U of M departments.

Graduate assistantships: Contact the Graduate Assistant Employment Office in 170 Donhowe Building, 319 15th Avenue S.E., Minneapolis, MN 55455 (612-624-7579); Graduate Assistant Employment Web site.

College of Continuing Education Scholarships: Several CCE scholarships are available to students admitted to the MLS program. Scholarships are targeted to students who have financial need, plus a delay or interruption in their education or are non-traditional adult students by another definition. Applications are available from the MLS Program or at the CCE Tuition Assistance Grant Program (TAP) and CCE Scholarships Web site.

Federal education tax benefits:  Several education tax credits and deductions may reduce the amount of federal taxes you owe.  Tax benefits include the Lifetime Learning Tax Credit, deductions for tuition and required fees and for interest on qualified educational loans, and up to $5,250 of tax-free employer tuition benefits.  Additional information is available at the Education Tax Benefits Web site. 

Additional options: Americorps awards received upon completion of a term of national service, Veteran's Administration benefits, and Army and Air National Guard financial aid programs may be options. Go online to CCE Financial Aid Web site to view a copy of Financial Aid Resources for Adult Learners. Explore other options online at The SmartStudent Guide to Financial Aid Web site.