Department of Interdisciplinary Studies
(ART, COM, IDS, INS, PHI)
The Interdisciplinary Studies major allows students to combine two academic disciplines in innovative ways to meet 21st century market demands. Students choose 2 concentrations from disciplines across the arts, sciences, and professional studies. Students may select from specially designed pre-professional programs in pre-med, pre-physician assistant, or pre-law. Additionally, those who qualify may select a specially designed honors leadership program. All Interdisciplinary Studies majors take a common interdisciplinary core designed to forge interconnections between the chosen disciplines, with a required experiential learning component, an integrative capstone project, and portfolio seminar.. An interdisciplinary studies degree plan allows students to pursue vocational interests and abilities that transcend traditional disciplinary boundaries, preparing them to solve real-world problems through critical thinking, effective communication, and collaborative approaches sought by many employers and graduate schools.
Admission to the Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Program
Students should apply for admission to the IDS program between their freshman and sophomore year providing an educational plan that includes their intended concentrations, the intersection of those disciplines as they relate to their intended vocational path, and an evidence-based narrative explaining why their goals will be best achieved through an interdisciplinary degree plan as opposed to a traditional major/minor. The IDS application can be found on the student portal.
Program Learning Outcomes
The following learning outcomes are linked to assignments and activities throughout this program. After completing program requirements,
- Students will be able to critically evaluate and synthesize knowledge across the arts and sciences.
- Students will be able to effectively communicate ideas and collaborate with others in multidisciplinary settings.
- Students will be able to demonstrate contextual thinking, drawing from multiple perspectives within the fabric of time, culture, and personal experience.
- Students will be able to discover creative insights to real world problems by applying theory to practice in various settings.
- Students will be able to articulate their personal beliefs, values, attitudes, and abilities through a unique integration of disciplines in relation to the Christian story and service in God’s world.