Interdisciplinary Studies is a great choice for students who have lots of different interests! It lets you design a college major that mixes those interests into a meaningful plan of study.
Can't decide on just one major? This kind of degree might be perfect for you. It's becoming more popular because it gives you the power to create a college education that truly fits your personal goals and passions.
What are Interdisciplinary Studies?
The word "interdisciplinary" means relating to more than one subject or type of knowledge.i
In simple words, an Interdisciplinary Studies degree is a customized major. It allows you to combine classes, knowledge, and ways of thinking from three different fields of study. Instead of sticking to a single, traditional subject like biology or history, you can create a unique study plan that blends your personal interests.ii
For example, a student who wants to solve problems in the environment might combine classes in environmental geoscience, sociology, and economics to understand how science, people, and business all work together to affect things like sustainability.
4 Top Benefits of an Interdisciplinary Degree
An Interdisciplinary Studies degree doesn't just let you take different subjects; it helps you build a flexible set of skills that employers really want today.iii
1. You Get to Customize Your Education
This is one of the biggest draws! With this degree, you are the leader in designing your academic path. You pick three areas of focus that truly reflect both your passions and what you want to do after college. This is great option if you've already taken classes in a few different subjects or if your dream job doesn't fit into a standard major.
2. Sharper Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
Real-life problems are often complex and don't fit neatly into just one subject area. By studying problems from different angles, an interdisciplinary degree forces you to think critically and analyze issues from various viewpoints.iv This practice is key to creating new ideas and solutions and is one of the top skills employers look for. [Link to “What Interdisciplinary Studies Graduates Offer Employers” blog article]
3. You'll Be Ready for More Careers
The professional world changes all time, and companies look for people who can easily adapt. By combining knowledge from different fields, interdisciplinary studies students build a wide set of skills that prepares them for many different jobs and industries.v Graduates with this degree are seen as flexible thinkers who can communicate and collaborate well with professionals from diverse backgrounds, making them very appealing to employers.vi
4. A Well-Rounded and Holistic View
Interdisciplinary studies is built on the idea of integration—connecting information across different subjects. It offers you a broader, more complete understanding of the world and complex issues, helping you see connections that others might miss.vii This well-rounded perspective prepares you for the future, where professionals are expected to understand different aspects of an organization.
Is Interdisciplinary Studies Right for You?
If you have diverse interests, value flexibility, and want a degree that you can truly make your own, Interdisciplinary Studies could be the perfect start for your college journey and future career.