Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies Program

The Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies program (BIS) is a university-wide degree program that enables you to create interdisciplinary specialties that prepare you for careers in a world that increasingly bridges academic disciplines. As a BIS student, you select two subject-area concentrations that represent academic interests you wish to integrate into a meaningful program. A four-course core offers you intellectual tools to identify connections between your concentrations and engage in interdisciplinary problem solving.

What is an interdisciplinarian?

What are you “signing on for” by choosing this major?

An interdisciplinarian is one who can solve complex problems and capitalize on opportunities from multiple perspectives instead of a single disciplinary perspective. These are important skills that are a reflection of how the “real world” workplace—and life!—operates.

Choosing Interdisciplinary Studies as your major starts you on a flexible but rigorous academic and personal path. Our degree is “learning centered,” which means you blend different academic areas, learn how to apply those areas at an Applied Study/internship, and build important transferable skills including critical-thinking and problem-solving skills. These flexible-thinking skills are in demand by employers and will also enhance the general quality of your life.

If you have more than one interest you’d like to pursue in school and would benefit from a more conscious consideration of how those areas relate to each other and an exploration of careers related to those interests, please explore this site further. Then, if you would like to consider interdisciplinary studies as a major and meet with an advisor in our school, please read through the Cyberworkshop, submit the answers to the questions, and call the office to schedule your appointment.