After completing her undergraduate studies in music business, Francis Feng sought a graduate program that could enhance her professional and personal growth. She chose the University of Chicago's master's degree in Digital Studies, which combines computational methods with humanities research. Feng noted the program's balance between technical aspects and her passion for humanities, saying it offers "a great balance between the two."
The University of Chicago has a long-standing history in humanities education since establishing its graduate division in 1930. The Division of the Arts & Humanities offers several programs, including the Master of Arts Program in the Humanities (MAPH), Master of Digital Studies of Language, Culture, and History, Master of Arts Program in Middle Eastern Studies, and Master's of Fine Arts.
Sarah Brock, director of enrollment strategy and recruitment at UChicago’s Division of the Arts & Humanities, emphasized the importance of arts and humanities education for developing critical thinking skills. Hilary Strang, director of MAPH, highlighted how alumni work across various fields such as museums, education, advocacy, consulting, or banking.
The MAPH program allows students to focus on specific disciplines or explore interdisciplinary interests. Strang described it as "immersive and transformative," where students engage deeply with their work and self-inquiry.
Christian Pizarro Winting, a 2014 MAPH graduate now working at Palgrave Macmillan, credited his master’s experience for fostering connections that aided his career. He said these connections continue to open doors for him.
The Masters Program in Digital Studies enables students from arts and humanities backgrounds to acquire data analysis and coding skills applicable to their fields. Jose Hernandez praised the program for allowing humanities professionals to transition into technical roles.
UChicago provides personalized support through academic advising and professional workshops. Brock explained that this support helps students translate their degrees into career opportunities. Strang added that building community is vital to ensuring an intellectually challenging experience for MAPH students.
Yelnura Tynysbekova, a first-year Middle Eastern Studies student from Kazakhstan, expressed fulfillment from her life at UChicago. She credited the university with helping her achieve her aspirations while rediscovering herself.