Interdisciplinary studies majors are pioneers, laying the foundations for unique perspectives and future disciplines that promise to bring concert and coherence into innovative intellectual life. By exploring beyond the boundaries of a traditional major, and integrating more than a single discipline, the interdisciplinary designed major enters into a realm of possibilities animated by a personalized approach to intellectual challenges and innovation.
Students design their own curriculum, combining two or three disciplines to earn either a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree. Each discipline is brought into concert through a topical area of concentration, and students work closely with advisors to accomplish their academic goals. For example, a student interested in architectural, art and environmental issues may create a unique curriculum combining these interests. Or a student who would like to combine history, art and political science into an alternative vision of cultural studies may create a curriculum focused on these areas. Other potential areas of interdisciplinary study include feminism in the arts, cultures in conflict, ecology and political evolution, the history of particular ethnicities, etc.
Admission into the Program
To be admitted to this program, your unique curriculum must first be approved by a program director. Students must present a proposal that discusses how his or her intellectual and educational goals will be furthered by a multi-disciplinary approach while explaining the planned area of concentration. After admission, the director oversees coordination of the student’s courses and advisors among the various disciplines. Each student will also produce a senior thesis, project or a period of service that contributes to their area of concentration, as approved by their advisors.
Course Offerings
Students must fulfill a minimum of 18 hours each in at least two disciplines, up to a maximum of three. Individual courses from other disciplines (outside the areas of focus) may be selected with the approval of the director. Study abroad, as well as course work at neighboring universities, is also encouraged.
You will receive a well-rounded education through Point Park's core curriculum and classes in your major. For a comprehensive list of program requirements and course descriptions, see the program guide and the School of Arts and Sciences course descriptions.