Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Interdisciplinary Studies Program

The Master of Interdisciplinary Studies (MIS) program at Rice University's Susanne M. Glasscock School of Continuing Studies is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education that combines multiple disciplines. This program allows students to create their own area of specialization, fostering a unique and personalized learning experience.

Program Overview

• The MIS program does not require applicants to take the GRE or any other standardized test.
• Students can choose to take courses in one of three tracks: social sciences, humanities, or natural science, after completing a core course in each area.
• All courses must be taken within the program, with limited exceptions on a case-by-case basis.
• Up to 6 hours of credit may be transferred from other graduate-level liberal arts programs.

Program Structure and Schedule

• Classes are held in person on the Rice University campus, with no standard online or dual delivery option.
• Classes typically meet once a week for three hours, during weekday evenings.
• The program stresses small classes, with most classes having 12 students, although some may be slightly smaller or larger.

Degree Completion and Timeframe

• Part-time students can earn their degree in 11 semesters, or a little less than four years, by taking one course per semester.
• Students can finish the program sooner by taking two courses per semester and/or taking courses in the summer.
• Full-time students can earn the degree in two years by taking three courses in the fall and spring semesters and at least two courses in the summer.
• The program must be completed within seven years from the date of first enrollment.

Financial Information

• The estimated cost of the program for students completing their degree within four years is approximately $42,000 in tuition and fees.
• Benefits-eligible Rice staff can receive a 50% tuition discount, while Rice alumni receive a 10% tuition discount.
• The program is not eligible for the Rice tuition waiver, but students may be eligible for Rice tuition reimbursement.

Graduation and Post-Graduation

• MIS program graduates can participate in Rice graduation ceremonies.
• The program does not offer online courses, but students may be able to attend class remotely via Zoom in certain cases.

Admission Requirements

• International students must present a professional course-by-course evaluation of their foreign official transcript.
• The program accepts electronic transcripts from U.S. institutions via secure electronic transcript providers.
• International students who received a degree from an institution where English is the official language of communication may be exempt from taking the TOEFL or IELTS.
• A minimum score of 90 on the TOEFL IBT Home, 7 on the IELTS Indicator, or 115 on the Duolingo is required for international students.

Additional Information

• The program does not require a Master's thesis, but a lengthy paper or project is required in the capstone course.
• Research papers are required in all courses.
• Students can skip a semester, but must take at least two courses per academic year and submit a leave of absence form prior to the start of the semester they will miss.
• Certified High School English and History teachers can focus their electives in these subjects to meet Dual Credit Teacher Credentialing requirements.