What is Interdisciplinary Studies?

Have you ever asked or been asked the question, “What is your major?” As a BIS student, you might get a perplexed look when you say, “I’m majoring in Interdisciplinary Studies.” Even though it’s one of the largest single majors at ASU, the term isn’t immediately recognized, and it is not sufficiently precise. In fact, with our major there are 7,626 ways to complete your degree!

Let’s begin with “WHAT IS INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES?” When we think of “discipline” the first word that may come to mind is punishment. But now that you’ve been in college, you’ve noticed we have academic disciplines which relate to the older less-used meaning of discipline: discipline as related to learning.

In our context, you create your BIS degree by choosing two concentration areas you wish to study. All concentrations require at least 18 credit hours, though some may require more. Plus you’ll take four BIS core courses (12 credit hours) where you work on developing your skills as an interdisciplinarian, putting your concentration areas together, and developing either workplace experience or another project of your own choosing. Altogether, that’s a minimum of 48 credit hours.

12 hrs   BIS Core Classes
18 hrs   Concentration #1
18 hrs   Concentration #2
48 hrs   TOTAL

Of course, you also have to complete your general studies and all other graduation requirements. These are outlined on the BIS checksheet.

Still wondering about 7,626? Find out with our next slide!

Next: Lots of Options