As a comprehensive liberal arts college at the heart of a major research university, CLAS offers plentiful opportunities for interdisciplinary study and collaboration in research and creative production, as well as opportunities for developing teaching skills.

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) is the academic home of approximately 1,700 graduate students at the University of Iowa. As the largest of the university's 11 colleges offering advanced degrees through the Graduate College, CLAS supports cutting-edge research, scholarship, and creative work through nearly 50 graduate and professional degree programs in the arts, humanities, and sciences.

Graduate students in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences are strongly encouraged to take advantage of the research support and many opportunities for professional development offered by CLAS, the Graduate College, International Programs, and the Obermann Center for Advanced Studies.

33 %

of University of Iowa graduate students study in CLAS programs

47

CLAS programs have active graduate students

Graduate student stories

A portrait of University of Iowa graduate student Harindu Rajapaksha.

Seeking sustainable nuclear energy practices

Wednesday, September 30, 2026
CLAS alumnus Harindu Rajapaksha is working to improve our understanding of nuclear waste for safer storage, recycling, and management.
A headshot of CLAS graduate student Onae Parker, a PhD candidate in Linguistics in the Department of Languages, Linguistics, Literatures, and Cultures in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS). This summer, CLAS doctoral candidates are participating in the Graduate College Summer Fellowship Program.

Meet CLAS doctoral students advancing research with Graduate College summer fellowships

Wednesday, July 29, 2026
This summer, 109 advanced doctoral candidates are participating in the Graduate College Summer Fellowship Program. Meet four students whose fellowship-supported research is deepening our understanding of neuroscience, dual language learning, product delivery optimization, and the rise of the gig economy.
Jennie Sekanics

English PhD candidate earns prestigious AAUW American Fellowship

Monday, June 8, 2026
University of Iowa English PhD candidate Jennie Sekanics has been awarded a prestigious 2026–27 AAUW American Fellowship, a national award supporting outstanding graduate scholars.