Interdisciplinary Studies
A student who wishes to pursue a specific topic or theme that crosses disciplinary lines and for which there is no formal major at the college may choose to major in interdisciplinary studies. Any topic for which there are sufficient courses in the catalog to meet the requirements of the major may form the basis for an interdisciplinary major.
The interdisciplinary studies major shall consist of no fewer than 33 and no more than 48 credits. These credits shall be distributed in at least two and not more than three academic areas. There shall be no fewer than 9 credits in any area included in the major and 12 credits shall be at the upper-division level.
Aside from completing requirements for the major, students shall earn 39 credits of general education course requirements, as required for the degree and shall choose electives from other academic areas, so that the total number of credits earned will be at least 120.
Once a student decides to pursue this major, he/she contacts or is referred to the adviser for interdisciplinary studies. Under advisement, the student will design a major plan of courses for a major and for electives. This plan may include as many as 9 credits in life experience toward the major area.
The plan will then be presented to the division chairs or representatives of selected major disciplines for their approval.
The student should retain one copy of the major plan; one will be given to the adviser; and one will be forwarded to the Office of the Registrar.
The concentrations that follow represent established models of interdisciplinary study. They are not meant to be inclusive. In consultation with the adviser for interdisciplinary studies, the student may develop an interdisciplinary studies program with concentrations tailored to his/her interests and career aspirations.
General Science Concentration
The Interdisciplinary Science major was designed to provide a broad background in science for those students interested in teaching at the elementary level. Elementary teachers are expected to teach a broad spectrum of science topics including biology, chemistry, physics and earth science. Course work in each of these disciplines is included as part of the major. Students who complete this major will also be prepared to serve as science coordinators at the elementary level.
Students who are majoring in general science are assigned two advisors: one from the Division of Natural Science and one from the Division of Education.
