The resources below offer a broad orientation to the Master of Liberal Arts (MLA) program, information about administrative aspects of the program and include forms you may need while you pursue your studies.
Virtual information session
During this information session, MLA Program Director Dr. Chris Pastore discusses the MLA program, its curriculum, and what MLA graduates are doing with their degrees.
If you have a problem viewing this video, you can watch it on YouTube.
MLA Alumni Panels
Program Director Dr. Chris Pastore hosts virtual discussions featuring MLA alumni who talk about what the program meant for them and how their degrees are impacting what they are doing today. Watch our accomplished alumni share their experiences and see how the MLA program can enrich your life.
Virtual alumni panel 2022
Featuring MLA alumni: Alan Majewski, Emily Gorge, Jacquelyn Jordan, and Meghan Pane.
if you have a problem viewing this video, you can watch it on YouTube.
Virtual alumni panel 2021
Featuring MLA alumni: Mustafa Ali-Smith, Allison Doyle, Nicole Fortuna, Brad Richards, Dana Pickholtz, Shannon Rafferty, Nicole Reggia, Tony Wu, and Alan Majewski.
if you have a problem viewing this video, you can watch it on YouTube.
Virtual alumni panel 2020
Featuring: Chris Gibbons, Andie Tursi, Jay Esposito, Denise Dahlhoff, Lauren Cooper, and Allison Doyle.
If you have a problem viewing this video, you can watch it on YouTube.
Student handbook
For guidelines on MLA degree requirements, structuring your individualized curriculum, capstone and policies, refer to the Master of Liberal Arts Student Handbook (PDF).
National Honor Society
The Penn MLA program chapter of the Association of Graduate Liberal Studies Programs (AGLSP) National Honor Society was launched in fall 2018. We encourage students to explore membership in the National Honor Society by reviewing the eligibility guidelines and contacting the MLA Program Director, Christopher Pastore, PhD. Our Penn MLA students do outstanding work in their studies and we are pleased to have founded a chapter and extend the opportunity for membership to our graduates as another acknowledgment of their accomplishments.
Academic resources
MLA students at Penn are part of a vibrant intellectual community, with access to a wide range of academic and cultural resources, including:
- Lectures, readings, and discussions at Kelly Writers House
- The Critical Writing Program
- The Reference Department at Van Pelt Library
- Learning Resources Center
Forms
As you continue your MLA studies, refer to the following forms as needed:
- MLA Concentration Declaration Form
- MLA Form 400 – Reader Agreement to Serve
- MLA Capstone Independent Study Approval Form
- MLA Form 500 – Completion of Capstone Project
- MPhil Concentration Declaration Form
- MPhil Thesis Independent Study Approval Form
- MPhil Form 401 – Thesis Committee Member Agreement to Serve
- MPhil Form 501 – Completion of Thesis
