Individually Designed Major

Program Overview

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The Individually Designed Major (IDM) program empowers students to create a unique course of study tailored to their interests and career goals. Through interdisciplinary exploration, personalized curriculum maps, and close faculty mentorship, IDM students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills for success in diverse fields. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in research, consulting, education, and more, demonstrating a strong track record of success and leadership.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

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Overview:

An Individually Designed Major (IDM) is a self-directed academic program that allows students to create a unique course of study tailored to their specific interests and career goals. Unlike traditional majors, where students follow a predefined curriculum, IDM students work closely with faculty mentors to develop a personalized plan of study that aligns with their aspirations. This flexibility enables students to explore interdisciplinary areas of study, integrate different methodologies and perspectives, and pursue specialized topics that may not be available in existing majors.

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Objectives:

The primary objectives of the IDM program are to:

• Foster a more explicit pursuit of interdisciplinary study by providing a mechanism for students to design a major that intentionally integrates different methodologies, topics, disciplinary cultures, and learning styles.
• Empower students to identify their own learning goals and take primary responsibility for their academic journey.
• Equip students with the critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills necessary for success in their chosen fields and beyond.

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Program Description:

The IDM program is designed to be highly individualized and flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies to their specific interests and goals. Students work closely with faculty mentors to develop a curriculum map that outlines the specific courses, projects, and experiences required to achieve their learning objectives. This curriculum map serves as a roadmap for the student's academic journey and is reviewed and updated regularly to ensure alignment with the student's evolving interests and goals.

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Outline:

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Content:

The content of an IDM program is determined by the student's individual learning goals and interests. Students can choose to focus on a particular field of study or explore interdisciplinary areas that combine multiple disciplines. The program encourages students to think critically about the connections between different fields and to develop a comprehensive understanding of complex issues.

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Structure:

The IDM program is structured around a core curriculum that provides a solid foundation in the liberal arts and sciences. In addition to the core curriculum, students take a series of specialized courses that align with their chosen field of study. Students also have the opportunity to pursue independent research projects, internships, and study abroad experiences.

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Course Schedule:

The course schedule for an IDM program is flexible and can be disesuaikan to accommodate the student's individual needs and interests. Students work with their faculty mentors to develop a course schedule that allows them to progress at their own pace and achieve their learning objectives.

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Individual Modules:

There are no predefined modules in an IDM program. Instead, students work with their faculty mentors to develop a customized curriculum that meets their specific needs and goals. This flexibility allows students to explore their interests in depth and to pursue specialized topics that may not be available in traditional majors.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

The assessment methods used in an IDM program vary depending on the nature of the coursework and the learning objectives of the student. Assessment methods may include:

• Exams (written, oral, or performance-based)
• Essays and research papers
• Projects and presentations
• Portfolios
• Fieldwork and internships

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Assessment Criteria:

The assessment criteria used in an IDM program are based on the student's individual learning goals and the specific requirements of the coursework. Assessment criteria may include:

• Knowledge and understanding of the subject matter
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Communication and presentation skills
• Research and analytical skills
• Creativity and originality

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

The teaching methods used in an IDM program are tailored to the individual needs and learning styles of the students. Teaching methods may include:

• Lectures
• Discussions
• Tutorials
• Workshops
• Independent study
• Fieldwork and internships

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Faculty:

The faculty involved in the IDM program are experts in their respective fields and are committed to providing students with a high-quality educational experience. Faculty members work closely with students to develop individualized curriculum maps, provide mentorship and guidance, and assess student progress.

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Unique Approaches:

The IDM program offers several unique approaches to teaching and learning, including:

• A focus on interdisciplinary study that encourages students to think critically about the connections between different fields.
• A highly individualized curriculum that позволяет students to tailor their studies to their specific interests and goals.
• A close mentorship relationship between students and faculty members that provides personalized guidance and support.

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Careers:

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Career Paths:

Graduates of the IDM program are well-prepared for a wide range of careers across various industries. The interdisciplinary nature of the program equips students with the critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills that are highly valued by employers in today's competitive job market.

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Career Opportunities:

Potential career opportunities for graduates of the IDM program include:

• Research and development
• Consulting
• Education
• Non-profit management
• Public policy
• Business and finance
• Healthcare
• Law

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Outcomes:

Graduates of the IDM program have a strong track record of success in their careers. They are known for their ability to think critically, solve complex problems, and communicate effectively. Many graduates have gone on to pursue advanced degrees and to hold leadership positions in their chosen fields.