Program Overview

Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies

The Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies (MSIS) provides an advanced educational platform that synthesizes knowledge from multiple disciplines to address complex, real-world challenges. This innovative program leverages WSU’s diverse academic resources to produce graduates with unique interdisciplinary expertise.

Degree Description

• Total Credits: 30 minimum
• Program Start: Fall 2026
• Campus: Pullman
• Delivery Method: In Person
• Expected Annual Enrollment: 2-3 students per year

Degree Options

• 21 hours minimum graded coursework
• 2 required core courses: INTERDIS 591 (1 cr) and INTERDIS 598 (1 cr)
• 4 hours minimum 700-level research credit
• At least 6 graded credits from each of two disciplines
• Culminating thesis and oral defense

Program Features

• Advisory committee of at least 3 faculty from 2 or more disciplines
• At least one discipline must be a Master’s-granting unit
• Housed in the Graduate School with university-wide faculty support
• Typically completed in 2 years full-time
• Physical presence required on campus (not an online-only program)
• Students seek funding through assistantships in participating departments
• Pathway available to apply to the Interdisciplinary Doctoral Program

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from accredited institution (minimum 3.0 GPA)
• Three letters of recommendation
• Initial program proposal (3 pages maximum) including:
  • Interdisciplinary statement of purpose
  • Discussion of applications and contributions to the field
  • Identification and justification of two or more essential academic disciplines
• Evidence of capability for independent research

Student Opportunities

Research Excellence

• Work with faculty from multiple disciplines across WSU’s comprehensive research university
• Access to diverse laboratories, facilities, and research resources across participating departments
• Opportunity to present research at interdisciplinary conferences and symposia
• Potential for co-authorship on peer-reviewed publications

Academic Flexibility

• Design customized program of study spanning two or more disciplines
• Access to courses across all WSU colleges and departments

Professional Development

• Interdisciplinary seminar series exposure to cutting-edge research
• Development of transferable skills: critical thinking, problem-solving, communication
• Training in research methods from multiple disciplinary perspectives
• Networking opportunities with faculty and students across diverse fields

Career Opportunities

Academic Sector

• PhD program preparation in interdisciplinary or traditional disciplines
• Research positions in universities and research institutions
• Academic administration and program coordination
• Continuing education and professional development roles

Industry & Private Sector

• Research and development positions requiring interdisciplinary expertise
• Consulting roles addressing complex, multi-faceted challenges
• Project management in technology, healthcare, environmental, or social sectors
• Innovation and strategy positions in corporations and startups

Government & Non-Profit

• Policy analysis and development roles
• Program evaluation and assessment positions
• Grant writing and research coordination
• International development and NGO work

Emerging Fields

• Sustainability and environmental consulting
• Health informatics and digital health
• Social innovation and community development
• Science communication and public engagement

Pathway to Doctoral Studies

• MSIS graduates may apply to the Interdisciplinary Doctoral Program
• Separate application required; no automatic progression
• MSIS experience provides advantages: familiarity with interdisciplinary approaches, established faculty relationships, and demonstrated interdisciplinary research ability