Interdisciplinary
Students taking Interdisciplinary courses may look at a period, an idea, or a set of problems. Study the Renaissance through courses in English, history, art, and music. Or, explore human freedom through courses in philosophy, psychology, sociology, and political science.
Requirements
How the Interdisciplinary Major Works
Students can construct from two or more disciplines a course of study not available through one department. They work out their program of study with advisors from two different departments and present it to the chair for approval.
An interdisciplinary studies major consists of at least eight courses, including a course in research methods from one of the disciplines. The major also requires one internship related to the area of interest.
Interdisciplinary Course requirements:
- No more than two 100-level courses will count toward the major
- No more than two independent studies may count toward the major
- You must include at least four 300-level courses in the major.
What You'll Learn
Students Follow Their Interests Beyond Campus
I did an independent study with an art history professor about women in photojournalism, which culminated in a 30-page research paper. Part of my research involved attending an exhibit at the Newseum in Arlington about women photographers for National Geographic magazine.
Kelly Strawderman Freundt '03, M.A.T. '06, interdisciplinary major in photojournalism and SpanishMultifacted major
As an interdisciplinary major, I was able to take Japanese, Chinese art, and Asian history classes. These classes gave me a liberal arts education while being fully immersed in my chosen subject, East Asian Studies. My senior year, I worked with the Japanese teacher as an assistant and tutor. This put me on the path to my current job, teaching English with the Japan Exchange and Teaching Program.
Emmaline Conover
