Humanistic Studies

A degree in the study of humanities can lead to various career paths. At Johns Hopkins, your scholarly work in the classroom is complemented by robust research opportunities and hands-on learning. Such broad background leads to careers in museums and art galleries, journalism and writing, politics, teaching, media, non-profit management, or to a direct path to graduate school

The MA in Humanistic Studies is aimed both at seniors from across the University who seek to deepen their education by way of interdisciplinary study in literature, philosophy, and religion during an added fifth year of study as well as at students who graduated elsewhere and who consider pursuing graduate studies in intellectual history or comparative literature here or at other universities.

This terminal MA consists of eight courses over two semesters and a MA thesis with directed study during the summer months. The program places an emphasis on elaborating an individualized curriculum and on close collaboration with Humanities Center faculty in the writing of the thesis. Students accepted into the program from within Johns Hopkins benefit from a tuition reduction.

The coursework will follow the following template:

Fall Semester

• Graduate Seminar
• Graduate Seminar
• Graduate Seminar
• Master’s Colloquium

Spring Semester

• Graduate Seminar
• Graduate Seminar
• Graduate Seminar
• Humanities Thesis Seminar

Summer Semester

• Directed Thesis Study
• Thesis Writing 

• Letters of Recommendation (3),
• GRE (optional),
• TOEFL/IELTS,
• Statement of Purpose,
• Transcripts,
• Sample of Work,
• GRE Subject (optional)

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course