Print this page.About the Program
The Interdisciplinary Studies major is designed for students who want to pursue interdisciplinary studies without a major in a single department or in one of the structured interdepartmental degree programs. Students who are accepted into the Interdisciplinary Studies major pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (BAIS) degree. The Interdisciplinary Studies major focuses primarily on disciplines within the humanities, social sciences, and fine arts. It is individually designed by each student a committee of at least four faculty members from the student's areas of interest.
Career Opportunities
Career choices vary widely for Interdisciplinary Studies majors. Career preparation should be tailored to each student according to individual needs. Interdisciplinary Studies majors also provide strong preparation for certain graduate and professional school programs.
The University Career Center is available to assist you in choosing a career direction and in increasing your marketability upon graduation. For additional information, call the center at 803-777-7280.
Admission/Progression Requirements
To be admitted into the College of Arts and Sciences, you must meet all University admissions requirements, including (for freshmen) a completed application, non-refundable application fee, high-school record complete up to the time of application (including record of at least 20 academic units of study earned as required by the University), and entrance examination scores (either SAT or ACT). Details for all applicant categories can be found in the Undergraduate Bulletin. If you are considering major in Interdisciplinary Studies, you should first set up an appointment with the Assistant Dean to discuss your idea for a major. The Assistant Dean will discuss with you the feasibility of your idea, and may suggest research or interviews you should conduct to sharpen your idea into a workable proposal. If you decide to pursue an Interdisciplinary Studies major after meeting with the Assistant Dean, you must submit a proposal and indicate four faculty members from your areas of disciplinary interest that you would like to serve on your committee. The Assistant Dean will notify you of whether or not your proposal has been approved. Once you have received provisional approval of your proposal, you may then schedule a meeting of your committee. During the meeting, the committee members will review your proposal and make any necessary changes or adjustments to your plans.
Program of Study (120 hours)
This program requires 53 to 62 hours of general education requirements from the College of Arts and Sciences. This will include courses such as English, foreign language, history and cultural awareness, mathematics and analytical reasoning, natural sciences, and philosophy. Major requirements include 64-73 hours to include at least 36 hours at the 300 or above level. All major courses must be approved by the student's committee.