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

Portrait of Akalanka B. Ekanayake

Renowned CLAS chemistry program draws PhD candidate from Sri Lanka

Friday, August 30, 2024
Akalanka B. Ekanayake, a fourth-year PhD student in chemistry at the University of Iowa, originates from Sri Lanka, where he earned his bachelor’s degree and taught at a local college. Driven by a deep passion for research and teaching, he decided to pursue graduate studies in the U.S.
A group of students post behind their 3D design work

CLAS 3D design students showcase work at leading contemporary furniture conference in New York City

Wednesday, August 21, 2024
For the 11th year in a row, students in the School of Art, Art History, and Design exhibited their work in the Big Apple while networking with industry professionals.
Dustin Swarm

CLAS physics and astronomy postdoctoral research scholar receives $1 million NASA grant

Monday, July 22, 2024
Dustin Swarm, a postdoctoral research scholar in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, will use the award to develop imaging technology to better see our galaxy.