About Interdisciplinary Studies at USC Aiken
The Interdisciplinary Studies program is structured in part to meet an individual student’s specific academic goals. It is designed for those students whose educational objectives are better served by a flexible interdisciplinary program of study rather than by a traditional, single-discipline major. The Interdisciplinary Studies degree is not meant to substitute for existing majors and/or minors. The goals of the Interdisciplinary Studies program are to offer students:
- the opportunity for in-depth study of a meaningful combination of academic areas or disciplines that reflect the student’s educational goals;
- the opportunity to discover and explore the connections between/among different disciplines and areas of study, and;
- the opportunity to articulate the strengths, connections, and applications discovered during the student’s course of study for the degree.
Degree Possibilities
Students in the Interdisciplinary Studies program typically have interests that involve studies from multiple disciplines. A variety of disciplines and courses can be combined to create a defined and intentionally-structured area of study.
Classes for your Interdisciplinary Studies major will be selected by you in consultation with the program coordinator and two faculty members from the relevant disciplines. Each Interdisciplinary Studies degree concludes with a unique capstone experience that integrates your areas of study. This may take the form of an internship, thesis or special project, depending on the nature of your particular focus. A more complete description of the Interdisciplinary Studies program requirements can be found in the current USCA Bulletin.
Some examples of Interdisciplinary Studies degree possibilities include:
- Gender Studies
- Political Economy
- Environmental Studies
- Medical Illustration
- Spanish World Studies
- Human Rights
- Ethics and Society
- Health Communication
- Religious Philosophy
- Non-Western Studies
These are simply examples. Many combinations are possible so long as we have the faculty to support your area of interest and we are able to devise a coherent and rigorous program of study.
Internship and Research Opportunities
Each Interdisciplinary Studies major must complete a capstone experience.
Career Opportunities
The Interdisciplinary Studies program covers many academic areas, providing students with solid academic foundations for multiple careers and various graduate programs.
You can find more information about career options by visiting What Can I Do With This Major?
USC Aiken Career Services offers numerous resources which provide more information about career opportunities for students in this major.