Great Books

Students read an expansive and diverse body of literature. The Master of Liberal Arts and the Basic Program allow for deep immersion in the works of Homer, Plato, Dante, Shakespeare and more.

Our open enrollment courses are intended for students at a variety of different levels. You will be encouraged to apply your unique perspective as you read these texts and engage with your peers. We offer an optional course to prepare students to engage with challenging works: How to Read Classic Texts. While this is presented as an introductory course for the Basic Program, students in other programs or open enrollment courses are also welcome to participate and grow their skills. 

Yes. These non-credit courses are built for adults who have life experience and want to learn. Our instructors encourage all students to participate, regardless of their educational background, creating an inclusive learning environment with a collegial atmosphere.

The Graham School offers both online and in-person class experiences. The description for each course specifies whether it will be offered online through Canvas or in person at the Gleacher Center in downtown Chicago. 

Students come to each session prepared to engage in lively, respectful discussions about the assigned reading. With a small group of peers and your instructor, you’ll examine fundamental questions through the lenses of multiple disciplines and lived experiences.

No application is required for Basic Program courses or open enrollment courses. There is a required application for the Master of Liberal Arts.