Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies
Program Overview
Shenandoah University's Interdisciplinary Studies program empowers students to tailor their education to their unique goals. Students design their own degree plans, selecting courses from multiple disciplines to create a personalized curriculum. The program fosters intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities, preparing graduates for success in diverse career paths.
Program Outline
Interdisciplinary Studies at Shenandoah University: A Comprehensive Analysis
Degree Overview:
The Interdisciplinary Studies program at Shenandoah University empowers students to design their own academic journeys, tailoring their education to their unique goals and aspirations.
Objectives:
- Provide a framework for interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary study.
- Equip students with the knowledge and skills to excel in their chosen fields.
- Cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication.
- Foster a love of learning and a commitment to lifelong intellectual growth.
Program Description:
The Interdisciplinary Studies program prioritizes student agency and self-direction. Students work closely with faculty advisors to develop a personalized degree plan that reflects their academic interests and career aspirations. This plan must include at least 36 credit hours from at least two disciplines, with a minimum of 24 hours at the 300 or 400 level. The program offers a vast array of potential areas of study, encompassing various disciplines within the College of Arts & Sciences. Students can delve into fields like:
- African American and Global Black Studies
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Criminology & Criminal Justice
- Data Science & Applied Mathematics
- English
- Environmental Studies
- Film Production
- Gender & Women’s Studies
- Health Humanities
- Global Studies
- History
- Languages & Cultural Studies
- Outdoor Leadership & Education
- Kinesiology & Recreation
- Media & Communication
- Music
- Mathematics
- Physiology
- Public Health
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Pre-Health Professional
- Religion
- Sociology
- Theatre
- Dance
- Arts Management
Outline:
The program's structure offers flexibility without compromising academic rigor. Students collaborate with their advisors to craft a personalized curriculum that aligns with their goals and interests. This includes:
- Selecting courses from various disciplines to fulfill the credit hour requirement.
- Completing core requirements within each chosen discipline.
- Engaging in a 3-credit senior research study, creative project, or essay that integrates their chosen disciplines and experiences.
- Completing a senior comprehensive examination that further integrates their areas of specialization.
Assessment:
The program employs diverse assessment methods to evaluate student learning and progress. These methods may include:
- Traditional exams and quizzes
- Research papers and projects
- Creative presentations and performances
- Portfolios showcasing student work
- Comprehensive examinations Assessment criteria vary depending on the chosen courses and projects. However, the program emphasizes critical thinking, effective communication, and a deep understanding of the chosen disciplines.
Teaching:
The program boasts a dedicated faculty committed to personalized instruction and student mentorship. Students benefit from:
- Small class sizes, fostering close interaction with professors.
- Individualized attention and guidance from faculty advisors.
- Access to experienced professors with expertise in diverse fields.
- Opportunities for hands-on learning and research experiences.
Careers:
The Interdisciplinary Studies program equips graduates with transferable skills and knowledge valuable in various career paths. Graduates pursue diverse careers in fields such as:
- Education
- Business
- Government
- Non-profit organizations
- Healthcare
- Media and communications
- Technology
- Research
- Public policy
- Law
- Social work
- Internship opportunities facilitated by the Career & Professional Development staff.
- Learning support services, including peer tutoring, writing assistance, and math enrichment.
- Access to modern facilities and technology.
- A vibrant campus community with diverse student organizations and activities.
Conclusion:
Shenandoah University's Interdisciplinary Studies program offers a unique opportunity for self-motivated students to design their own academic journeys. With its flexible structure, personalized approach, and strong faculty support, the program empowers students to pursue their passions, develop valuable skills, and prepare for rewarding careers in a variety of fields.
