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What is meant by the term “Interdisciplinary Studies?”
The concept of Interdisciplinary studies is as varied as the students in the program. There is no single, widely accepted definition of the term. An interdisciplinary study program is made up of two or more separate academic disciplines of study of interest to the student. These different areas are blended together to allow the student to pursue a degree based on their interests and their goals in life. These disciplines can be similar or completely different from each other but of interest to the student. It will allow the student the flexibility to use their degree to the best of their ability and aspirations.
What type of student is best suited for the BAIS degree program?
The Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (BAIS) degree is designed to serve the mature, adult learner that has some previous college experience. This student usually has significant life experiences and is often juggling family, job, civic and other personal responsibilities and has the desire to complete their college degree. The BAIS is more akin in spirit to a traditional liberal arts degree. Those who want a professional education are well advised to pursue a traditional profession degree. The BAIS requires that the student take an active role in the development of their program of study. Students who pursue the BAIS should possess clear academic goals and be prepared to suggest coursework that will help them reach their academic goals. Students who are undecided, who are not comfortable with assuming responsibility for their education or who really prefer another degree usually do not benefit from the educational approach offered by the BAIS.
Students who often choose the interdisciplinary approach include:
- Students who already have an associate degree from an accredited junior, community, or technical college.
- Working adults who need a baccalaureate degree to gain mobility within their current profession.
- Working adults who’s incentive is an increase in pay once they receive their degree.
- Adults who aspire to graduate study in a particular area and who wish to structure an undergraduate degree to help them gain access into graduate school.
- Mature students who value education for its own sake, who have clear goals, and are willing to participate in the development of a unique program of study.
What type of degree will I have when I graduate?
Upon graduation the student is awarded a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Interdisciplinary Studies. It is incumbent upon the student to be able to define what the term interdisciplinary studies mean in the context of their degree. Examples of the meaning student have attached to interdisciplinary studies recently have included:
- Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Fashion Merchandising
- Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Club Management
- Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Integrated Information Technology
- Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Entertainment Management.
Can I get into Graduate School with a BAIS?
Admission to graduate school almost certainly requires some type of undergraduate degree. Beyond that however, the issue is more the quality and potential of the student than the type of degree. BAIS graduates have gained admission to all types of graduate schools including medical, law, education, social work, business, and the liberal arts.
What kind of job can I get with a BAIS degree?
The majority of students who enter the BAIS are already employed. They are pursuing the BAIS in order to qualify for a promotion, to enter graduate school, or for their own personal reasons. Students who wish to use their degree as the primary credential for their job search are advised to explore the opportunities offered by a professional major. If the job you are looking for only requires a bachelor’s degree……then the BAIS degree qualifies. | 
