缅因大学

The University of Maine Graduate School offers a Maine Studies Interdisciplinary Master of Arts Degree within the Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies program. This degree program offers students the opportunity to design an interdisciplinary study of Maine through classes in literature, history, folklore, Native American studies, Franco-American studies, women’s studies, geology, geography, political science, and other disciplines. Students will also participate in interdisciplinary seminars.

The Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (MAIS) program offers mature students with appropriate academic qualifications (minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA) the opportunity for interdisciplinary graduate work. Students who enter the program may pursue their studies on a full-time or part-time basis.

The Maine Studies concentration allows students to engage in interdisciplinary and community-based research methods to examine Maine-related topics. Through core seminars, an individualized program of study, and the completion of a master’s project, students explore topics relevant to Maine’s people and places, its history and culture.

Similar programs have attracted professionals who feel they need further study to investigate complex issues connected with their work or interests. Some teachers and librarians find such a course of study an alternative to graduate work in education or in another single discipline. Others see the program as an improvement over a self-directed study of reading or participation in a series of unrelated courses beyond the baccalaureate degree. By emphasizing the integration of knowledge in different disciplines, the program offers a unique opportunity to shape an interdisciplinary study of a Maine-related problem or topic.

Careers

The Maine Studies graduate program allows students to pursue Maine-related interdisciplinary interests such as Wabanaki culture and the environment, poverty and public policy, immigrant history and culture, woman’s work and the economy, the art and culture of the coast, or folklore and labor history, to name just a few examples of interdisciplinary research areas. While providing a better understanding of the state’s problems and opportunities, both past and present, this interdisciplinary liberal arts program will also sharpen students’ research and critical thinking skills and deepen their understanding of Maine. The program will help prepare students for careers in such areas as teaching, government, business, historical preservation, or social services.