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The Master of Arts in Liberal Studies (sometimes MALS), Master of Liberal Arts (MLA), Master of Liberal Studies (MLS), and Doctor of Liberal Studies (DLS) are postgraduate degrees. Characteristics that distinguish these degrees include curricular flexibility, interdisciplinary synthesis via Master's thesis or capstone project, and optional part-time enrollment. Like other Master's degree programs, students generally enroll after receiving bachelor's degrees. As of 2005, there are over 130 colleges and universities throughout the United States, Canada, and United Kingdom that offer Master of Arts in Liberal Studies (or similar) programs. Admissions criteria vary by institution.