F

eel like earning a degree by studying biblical archaeology, beekeeping, pyrotechnics, Russian opera and much more, and to take your time doing so? Thanks to the University of Malta’s Programme in the Liberal Arts and Sciences (PLAS), now anyone can. The programme, which is operated by the Centre for the Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS), was only launched two years ago, but has been a quick success, attracting some 200 students—‘from all walks of life and with very different education backgrounds,’ CLAS director Dr Jean-Paul De Lucca points out—each semester.

‘We wanted to reach people who, for some reason or other, did not pursue tertiary education and would now like to do so without straining their personal and professional lives,’ De Lucca explains, adding that the programme also suited graduates who wished ‘to continue studying in a bite-size’ fashion.

The programme’s aim, De Lucca says, is to let people study at their own pace. Around 15–20 study units—typically involving a weekly lecture over 14 weeks and assessment through assignments—are offered each semester, and for a reasonable fee, prospective students can apply for as many units as they desire.

Dr Jean-Paul De Lucca. Photo by Jean Claude Vancell

The range of topics covered by the units offered each semester is vast. To provide an example, the units offered during 2015/2016 include ‘Saving Lives: Amazing Medical Devices,’ ‘Shakespeare Revisited,’ ‘Opera, Symphony and Ballet in Russia,’ and ‘Lighting up the Skies: The Chemistry of Fireworks.’

But the PLAS offers more than the opportunity to learn for learning’s sake: it also offers a path for higher qualifications. Its study units are accredited, and should one accumulate enough credits—and there are no time limits for doing so—these can be translated into a certificate, a diploma, a higher diploma, and even a Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Studies. And prior learning can be acknowledged, so undergraduates who did not manage to complete their course can finish their studies through the PLAS.

The Centre may be in its infancy, but it is already evolving. This year saw it offer, in collaboration with the UoM’s Department of Computer Science, PLAS’ tech units, a selection of ICT-related, hands-on study units primarily addressed at people working in the field. De Lucca explains that the centre is looking into ways of adapting this model in other areas, to help strengthen opportunities for continuous professional development.

CLAS has also developed partnerships with public entities and NGOs, to offer educational and training opportunities which could be accredited through the programme. All this is in line with De Lucca’s desire to see ‘the consolidation of opportunities for adult learning, which target those who are seeking employment, a career change, or personal and professional development.’

And if you simply feel that lectures about fireworks would be an interesting way to spend a few evenings, then CLAS has got you covered, too.