This self-designed major inspires students to create their own academic program by selecting courses from two different academic disciplines. The Interdisciplinary Studies major, (IDS) is specifically for persons with intellectual and professional interests in more than one academic area. The major promotes integration of existing knowledge and experience, and concludes with a senior capstone project or thesis.
The major is distinctively designed for people who are:
- Adult transfer students who have work experience and some previous college credit.
- Or, traditional undergraduates with multiple academic interests.
The spirit of Interdisciplinarity is emphasized through three required “core” IDS courses which foster critical reflection and thinking. Applied and integrative research experiences provide college level understanding of the research process. In addition, writing and communicating are key components of each core course.
The IDS major requires a minimum of 48 credits, including 12 credit hours in the IDS core plus 36 credit hours taken in at least two integrated academic disciplines.
Course delivery is offered in multiple ways (online pathways, hybrid, regular seat-time hours) with a menu of potential concentrations for those with discrete interests in business, media and public relations, and psychology (but is not limited to these).
Examples of Concentrations/Tracks:
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Business:
Accounting for Managers
Business Law
Organizational Behavior
Personal Finance
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Media and Public Relations:
Introduction to Public Relations
Media Criticism and Analysis
Media Writing
Organizational Communication
Public Relations Writing
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Psychology:
Introduction to Psychology
Developmental Psychology
Social/Personality Psychology
Social Science Statistics
Social Science Research Methods
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The IDS Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs) are:
- Demonstrate college level skills in reading, writing, oral communication, information literacy, and critical reflection and thinking.
- Explore complex questions by engaging in interdisciplinary inquiry.
- Apply relevant course content in academic environments and professional settings.
- Develop ability to conduct applied research and engage in appropriate projects.
- Gain ability in self-direction and lifelong learning skills.
Acquire a deepened appreciation for liberal learning and a liberal arts education.
Interdisciplinary Studies Core (12 credits)
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