Program Overview

CUNY Baccalaureate for Unique and Interdisciplinary Studies

The CUNY Baccalaureate for Unique and Interdisciplinary Studies, also known as CUNY BA, is a University-wide program that allows students to design their own major. This program provides students with the freedom to pursue their passions, which may not be available within traditional majors or educational programs.

Program Overview

CUNY BA gives students the opportunity to create their own concentration, combining courses from various disciplines to fit their interests. Students have a "home" college but can take courses at almost any CUNY school, receiving guidance and support from assigned academic advisors, faculty members, and a robust alumni network.

Benefits and Support

The program offers financial support, including scholarships worth up to $4,000 per semester and grants for study abroad and undergraduate research. CUNY BA also provides the opportunity to study abroad, and students can participate in both their home college and CUNY BA's graduation ceremonies.

Degree and Graduation

Students receive their CUNY BA degrees from CUNY, under the auspices of The CUNY Graduate School and University Center. Since its establishment in 1971, the program has had over 8,000 graduates, with unique degrees ranging from social justice and performing arts to medical illustration.

Student Testimonials

Several students have benefited from the CUNY BA program, including:

• Iraj Zia, who combined her love for accounting with public service and is now an investigative auditor at the New York State Inspector General's Office.
• Alexandra Rivera, a current CUNY BA student who aspires to be a social media manager and has found the program to be flexible and tailored to her interests.
• Denise Penizzotto, a professional artist and muralist who created her own concentration combining arts, religion, and art history, and is now an adjunct professor in the Religion Department at Hunter College.
• Ella Morton, who took advantage of the 4+1 Pipeline Program with Masters in Liberal Studies at the Graduate Center and is now a senior associate for content design at JPMorganChase.
• Ethan Frisch, the co-founder and co-CEO of Burlap & Barrel, a spice company that partners directly with smallholder farmers worldwide, who credits CUNY BA with preparing him for his career and success.

Program Details

• Students can design their own major, combining courses from various disciplines.
• Financial support is available, including scholarships and grants.
• Study abroad opportunities are available.
• Students can participate in both their home college and CUNY BA's graduation ceremonies.
• The program has had over 8,000 graduates since its establishment in 1971.