Is an Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Right for You?

Choosing a college major can feel overwhelming, especially if you have varied interests or are unsure about a specific career path. One option that offers flexibility and customization is an interdisciplinary studies degree. This type of degree allows students to combine courses from different fields, creating a unique academic experience tailored to their goals. But what is interdisciplinary studies exactly, and who benefits most from this approach? This post explores how an interdisciplinary studies major works, the skills it develops, and the career paths it can open.

What Is Interdisciplinary Studies?

An interdisciplinary studies degree breaks away from traditional single-discipline programs by allowing students to select courses from two or more academic areas. Instead of focusing on just one subject, students design a curriculum that crosses boundaries between fields such as humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and business.

This flexible college degree encourages students to explore connections between disciplines and approach problems from multiple perspectives. For example, a student interested in applying psychology in professional settings might combine coursework in psychology with organizational leadership and business to apply psychological concepts in the workplace. A student preparing for a career in human resources could blend psychology with business and marketing. A student interested in systems thinking might integrate biology and business to examine how complex systems function across industries.

The key feature of an interdisciplinary studies major is its customizable nature. Students often work with academic advisors to create a plan that fits their interests and career goals. This flexibility makes it a good fit for learners who want to avoid a narrow focus or who have diverse passions.

The key feature of an interdisciplinary studies major is its customizable nature. Students often work with success coaches to create a plan that fits their interests and career goals. This flexibility makes it a good fit for learners who want to avoid a narrow focus or who have diverse passions.

How Does an Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Work?

Typically, students pursuing an interdisciplinary studies degree follow these steps:

• Identify interests and goals: Students reflect on their academic and career aspirations to decide which fields to combine.

• Develop a plan: With guidance from success coaches, students select courses from different departments that complement each other.

• Complete core requirements: Most programs require foundational courses in critical thinking, writing, and research.

• Integrate learning: The BIS program requires students to complete a capstone project that ties together their chosen disciplines.

• Maintain flexibility: Students can adjust their course selections as their interests evolve.

This structure allows students to build a broad knowledge base while developing specialized skills. It also encourages independent thinking and self-directed learning.

Who Benefits Most from an Interdisciplinary Studies Major?

An interdisciplinary studies degree suits several types of learners:

• Undecided students: Those who are unsure about a single major can explore multiple fields before committing.

• Adult learners and career changers: People returning to education or switching careers can tailor their studies to new goals.

• Students with diverse interests: Learners passionate about more than one subject can combine them without limiting themselves.

• Creative problem solvers: Those who enjoy connecting ideas across disciplines thrive in this flexible environment.

For example, a student interested in both psychology and marketing could design a program that prepares them for careers in consumer behavior analysis. Another might combine data analytics and healthcare courses to enter health informatics.

Skills Developed in Interdisciplinary Studies Programs

Graduates of interdisciplinary studies programs often develop a range of valuable skills that employers appreciate:

• Critical thinking: Evaluating problems from multiple viewpoints and synthesizing information.

• Communication: Writing and speaking clearly across different subject areas.

• Research: Conducting studies that draw on diverse methodologies.

• Adaptability: Learning to navigate various academic disciplines and industries.

• Problem-solving: Applying knowledge creatively to complex, real-world challenges.

• Self-management: Planning and executing a personalized academic path.

These skills prepare students for careers that require flexibility, creativity, and the ability to work across teams or sectors.

Common Career Paths for Interdisciplinary Studies Graduates

Because of the broad training, graduates with an interdisciplinary studies degree pursue a wide range of careers. Some examples include:

• Public policy and administration: Combining political science, economics, and sociology to work in government or nonprofits.

• Education and curriculum design: Using knowledge from psychology, communication, and subject-specific areas.

• Environmental management: Merging biology, geography, and policy studies.

• Health services: Integrating healthcare, technology, and business courses.

• Media and communications: Drawing on writing, marketing, and digital technology.

• Entrepreneurship: Applying skills from business, design, and technology.

Many interdisciplinary studies careers require further training or graduate education, but the degree provides a strong foundation for diverse fields.

Is an Interdisciplinary Studies Degree the Right Choice?

If you value flexibility, have multiple interests, or want to create a unique academic experience, an interdisciplinary studies major can be a good fit. It supports learners who want to avoid a narrow focus and develop broad skills applicable in many careers.

Before choosing this path, consider:

• How clear are your academic and career goals?

• Do you enjoy designing your own curriculum and working independently?

• Are you comfortable integrating knowledge from different fields?

• Do you want a flexible college degree that adapts to your evolving interests?

If these points resonate, an interdisciplinary studies degree offers a way to build a personalized education that aligns with your passions and ambitions.