About this Program
The B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies is for students whose educational goals can best be met by integrating courses from several fields of study. This major is unique because it is individually designed; students work with faculty advisers to design their curriculum around a chosen theme. Your program might encompass the natural sciences, social sciences, cultural studies, fine arts, technical and professional fields, or a combination of these.
This major offers two tracks: an Individualized Plan that allows students to choose the emphasis of their major, and a Medical Arts and Sciences Plan that prepares students for health-related careers. Both plans require students to choose the specific focus of their program and craft a curriculum to fit that focus.
Unlike many UMD majors, Interdisciplinary Studies is available only by formal application and approval by the student's faculty advisors and the Interdisciplinary Studies Program Director. Students cannot apply for a change of major until their program has been approved. Proposals must incorporate at least three different areas of study, including at least 12 credits from within the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. Students are welcome to include courses from other UMD colleges.
Recent creative and successful program titles have included the following:
- Law & Society
- Classical Heritage
- Ancient Studies
- Marketing Communications
- Fashion Design, Development & Expression
- Peace Studies
Students must declare this major before completing 70 credits with a cumulative GPA of 2.50. Exceptions include returning students, transfer students admitted with 70 or more credits, and active military or veteran students, who may declare the Individualized Plan track of the major before completing 90 credits. Students who have more than 70 completed credits are advised to meet with their advisor or a CAHSS professional advisor to discuss alternative options.