Interdisciplinary Studies

Program Advisors: Dr. Rick Bordner, Dr. David Coleman, Dr. Cheryl Edelson Education Concentration Advisor: Dr. Dale Fryxell

Program Description:

The Bachelor of Arts degree program with a major in Interdisciplinary Studies is a program which may include studies in history, literature, philosophy, religion, foreign languages, education, and cultural anthropology. Humanities-related courses in other disciplines such as studio and performing arts, art history and criticism, geography, sociology, political theory, science, and economics may be elected after consultation with the program advisor.

Program Mission:

The mission of the Interdisciplinary Studies major is to allow students maximum flexibility in developing a depth of interdisciplinary understanding in an issue area of academic interest that brings together disciplinary perspectives from the humanities, the arts, social and natural sciences.

Graduate Education Paths and Career Options for Humanities Graduates:

Students completing an innovative and non-traditional program of study for their undergraduate degree must be able to demonstrate the results of that program to future graduate schools and employers. To that end, the major requires the completion of an extended research project culminating in completion of a Senior Thesis. Students completing such a degree generally will continue their studies at the graduate level. Their studies prepare them for a reflective life of service in professional careers that benefit from the ability to apply integrated perspectives to problems and social situations, using a variety of analytical tools and developed writing skills.

Acquisition of Skills and Competencies for Program Learning Outcomes

Successful completion of major requirements guarantees that, at minimum, students will have mastered the skills and competencies listed in the previous section. Program Learning Outcomes are linked to the courses in the specific program of study developed by the faculty advisor and student. At the time of the development of a course of study, the faculty advisor will submit an assessment plan which integrates the shared program outcomes with the outcomes found in the area concentration within the degree. Students will be responsible for maintenance of a portfolio of individual work examples that are linked to the program outcomes as presented in the course of study that are consistent with their approved assessment plan. The Senior Thesis will be the primary assessment tool and intellectual product of the program.