Interdisciplinary Studies

  • BA
  • Major
In a classroom, a student with an open laptop gestures while speaking.

Are you ready to be a catalyst for real change? In the Interdisciplinary Studies program, we do more than just study societal problems – we dig deeply to solve them at their roots. Through interdisciplinary coursework, research, internships and community engagement, our programs prepare you for careers spanning public service to health care, education to business, the arts, and beyond – wherever innovation and leadership are needed.

The BA in Interdisciplinary Studies can prepare you for a lifetime of professional and intellectual flexibility. By focusing on career-readiness competencies, particularly critical thinking, professionalism, teamwork and self-development, the program will empower you not only to address the many challenges you are likely to face in the workplace throughout your career, but also in your community throughout your life.

The program offers three concentrations: Human Values and Problem Solving; Health and Wellness; and Technology, Self, and Society. All are designed to develop strong critical thinking, communication and research skills, along with the ability to synthesize knowledge across disciplines.

The program fosters intellectual agility, collaborative problem-solving, and a sensitivity to real-world issues – qualities that are highly valued in today's diverse job market. Graduate career-ready through the BA in Interdisciplinary Studies!

Interdisciplinary Studies Concentrations

The BA in Interdisciplinary Studies, Human Values and Problem Solving concentration delves into the ethical, cultural and societal dimensions of human experiences. You will study a variety of social and human topics such as justice, ethics and human rights, preparing you for careers in public service, advocacy, pre-law and community engagement. The interdisciplinary approach encourages a deep understanding of complex human issues, fostering empathy and effective communication. 

In addition to major core courses focusing on career-readiness, the concentration features coursework on problem solving and electives from your choice of one of two tracks:

  • How We Interact: Exploring Violence, Peace and Communication in a Global World
  • Who We Are: Cultural Tradition and Diversity in the United States

See the curriculum.

Focusing on the intersection of health sciences and societal well-being, the BA in Interdisciplinary Studies, Health and Wellness concentration addresses topics like nutrition, public health and wellness promotion. You will learn to develop and implement health initiatives, preparing you for roles in health care, community health and wellness coaching. 

The curriculum emphasizes preventive care and holistic health strategies with courses such as Personalized Fitness, Family Stress and Coping, The Good Life: The Science of Positive Psychology, and Nutrition: A Socioecological Perspective. Electives further the interdisciplinary nature of the program with courses offered from disciplines across the University. 

See the curriculum.

The BA in Interdisciplinary Studies, Technology, Self, and Society concentration examines the impact of various technologies on individual identity and societal structures. Explore subjects such as digital culture, ethics in technology, and the psychological effects of technological advancement. 

The concentration provides coursework in areas such as communication and media, technology and programming language, as well as literature, history and cognitive science. The Technology, Self, and Society concentration will equip you to navigate and influence the evolving digital landscape in fields like tech policy, user experience design and digital communications. 

See the curriculum.

Featured Faculty

Laura Nicosia

  • Interim Director, Interdisciplinary School for Social Transformation
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