Organizational Studies (Online Program)

An interdisciplinary studies degree is an approach to answering questions, solving problems, and addressing contemporary social issues from multiple perspectives. Interdisciplinary students develop the intellectual tools needed to build bridges between academic disciplines and apply their skills, innovations, and knowledge in various academic and practical settings.

The BIS degree in Organizational Studies is intended for students seeking an interdisciplinary degree and a desire to learn about the dynamics of contemporary organizations. Via the Organizational Studies curriculum, students gain valuable knowledge of management styles, communication strategies, technologies, diversity, ethics, and politics. All course work for Organizational Studies is offered online giving students freedom and flexibility in completing their requirements.

By engaging a breadth of knowledge and experience, and by acquiring the skills to integrate various domains of knowledge, Organizational Studies students prepare themselves for careers in business, government, nonprofit agencies, healthcare administration, or the service industry. Many Organizational Studies students already have a chosen career field, yet desire a degree that is versatile, flexible, and meaningful, and affords the opportunity for continued career development and advancement.

All students in Academic Good Standing may pursue a BIS degree in Organizational Studies.

Degree Requirements

The requirements for the BIS degree in Organizational Studies include:

• University General Studies. The General Studies program provides students basic skills and familiarity with traditional areas of knowledge. The General Studies program consists of five “core” areas (Literacy and Critical Inquiry, Mathematical Studies, Humanities and Fine Arts, Social and Behavioral Sciences, and Natural Sciences) and three “awareness” areas (Cultural Diversity, Global, and Historical).
• Major requirements. The requirements for Organizational Studies consist of 15 hours of BIS core courses and 30 hours of Organizational Studies courses.
  • Core Courses. Organizational Studies students complete five core courses (15 semester hours) with grades of “C” or higher. Courses are taken sequentially. BIS 401 and BIS 402 may also be taken concurrently.
    • BIS 300. An introduction to Organizational Studies (Sophomore standing and completion of ENG 102 required.)
    • BIS 301. An introduction to concepts and theories of interdisciplinarity. (Junior standing required; other pre-requisites exist.)
    • BIS 302. An exploration of interdisciplinary approaches to human inquiry. (Junior standing required: may be taken concurrently with BIS 301.)
    • BIS 401. An applied study. Students make connections between an applied learning site and their course work. Prior application is required. This is an internet course. (“C” or better in BIS 302 required.)
    • BIS 402. A capstone course in which students integrate their concentrations. Students choose among course topics to match their interests. (“C” or better in BIS 302 required, and BIS 401 must be completed with a “C” or better or be taken concurrently.)
  • Organizational Studies Course. Organizational Studies students complete 30 hours of coursework related to how contemporary organizations function and exist in the 21st century. All ten courses are upper-division courses (300+ level) and require a grade of “C” or better.
• Electives. Inherent to the BIS degree is the flexibility afforded students through the use of electives. There is not a minimum number of electives required. Students may use their electives to pursue a minor or certificate, learn a new language, study abroad, prepare for law school, explore career possibilities, or satisfy a general curiosity.

Org Studies Checksheet: MS Word | PDF

Advising

Organizational Studies students should contact Kim Barnes to schedule an advising appointment. Kim can be reached by phone at (602) 496-0356 or by email at kim.barnes@asu.edu. Please include your full name, phone number and 10-digit ASU ID number when requesting an appointment via email or voicemail.