Interdisciplinary Studies: B.A.I.S.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Interdisciplinary Studies major is to provide a unique academic program that offers highly motivated and intellectually curious students the opportunity to develop an individualized, innovative and integrated program of study. As an alternative to a traditional major, self-directed students are engaged and mentored by faculty and advisers to build a program of study, drawing from multiple disciplines, around a unifying theme. 

Student Learning Outcomes

Students who complete the requirements for a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies will be able to:

1. Demonstrate a sound understanding of interdisciplinary inquiry and research. 
2. Identify and crtically analyze a complex isue or theme from multiple disciplinary perspectives. 
3. Justify in writing their reasons for pursuing an IDS degree. 
4. Explain in writing how the academic courses they have taken coalesce into a unified program that helps them to achieve their individual academic and professional goals.
5. Research and develop new interdisciplinary insight into a complex issue related to their focus of study.
6. Communicate their research findings through a capstone project.

Program Description

Admissions procedures and guidelines for the Interdisciplinary Studies major may be obtained from the Department of Interdisciplinary Studies, which is housed in the Edwards College of Humanities and Fine Arts. 

All applications for admission will be reviewed by a faculty committee and approved by the chair of the interdisciplinary studies department. Consideration is given to previous coursework and suitability of the proposed curriculum. The student must demonstrate that an individualized course of study will be an educationally sound alternative to traditional degree programs currently being offered at Coastal Carolina University.

Students applying to the Interdisciplinary Studies major, under the guidance of consulting faculty, develop a program of study listing the courses proposed to complete an interdisciplinary program. Admission is not complete until the program of study has been approved by the chair of the department. All students must complete their approved program of study to be eligible for graduation. Any subsequent change of major requirements in the program of study will require the prior written approval of the student’s adviser and the chair of the department.

Students must receive a grade of ‘C’ or better in all Major Requirements. Students double majoring, earning a second degree, earning minor(s) or certificates may share up to nine credit hours from the Interdisciplinary Studies Major Requirements per program. The Interdisciplinary Studies major requires its graduates to earn 120 credit hours with a minimum 2.0 GPA. At least 12 credit hours in Major Requirements and 30 total credit hours must be completed at Coastal Carolina University.