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Interdisciplinary Studies
Interdisciplinary Studies Fundamentals
The interdisciplinary program is a self-designed major, allowing you to examine traditional disciplines from diverse points of view as you plan a program of study targeted to your specific needs and interests.
To earn this degree, you must select a college of residence and then devise a proposed program of study with an adviser in the college selected. The proposal must be approved by the University's Interdisciplinary Studies Committee.
- Core program will encompass a broad spectrum of courses as you divide your studies among three areas of instruction within the participating degree-granting colleges.
- Select an area of emphasis in a four-year program which will be designated as your “host” college.
Our Faculty
- are innovative and interactive
- win teaching awards
- use multimedia technology to enhance classroom learning
Akron Advantage
Hands-on Research
Experience interdisciplinary studies firsthand through the research facilities available in the three areas of instruction you choose to match your specific needs and interests.
Real-world Experience
Gain practical professional experience through UA's optional cooperative education program in the applied mathematics field of your choice. Through co-op, you’ll alternate semesters of work and school while earning a competitive salary.
Sample Curriculum
Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies
| Students pursuing this degree must select a college of residence, and devise a proposed program of study with an adviser in the college selected. The proposal must be approved by the University Interdisciplinary Studies Committee. |
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| Required: | |
| • A minimum of 128 semester credits with a minimum grade point average of 2.0 at UA and a 2.0 average in all college level work. |
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| • Completion of 42 credits in the General Education program as required of all baccalaureate students. |
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| • A minimum of 47 credits in 300- and/or 400-level courses. |
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| • Core requirements — A minimum of 63 credits, divided among three areas of study selected by the student with the advice and approval of the appropriate academic advisers. The emphasis may be selected among the participating degree- granting colleges. |
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| • Emphasis — The student must select an area of emphasis in a four-year program which will be designated as the college “host.” The student must take 21-28 credits in an emphasis program. |
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| • Cognates — The student must take at least 21 hours in two other areas in an individually structured, interdisciplinary or disciplinary program of study outside the student’s emphasis field. The student proposes courses that focus in a common theme, which is a reasonable program of study to meet his/her unique educational goals. The 63 credits will include 12 credits of 300- and/or-400 include 12 credits of 300- and/or-400 level courses in each of two of the student’s emphasis or cognate areas. |
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| • A minimum of 14 credits of coursework in a foreign culture. |
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| There are two options for courses that would be applicable to this area: |
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| Option A — Completion of a second year of a foreign language on the University level or by demonstrating equivalent competency. The competency test is to be approved by the Department of Modern Languages. |
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| Option B — Some courses currently listed in the Undergraduate Bulletin may be used to fulfill the 14-credit minimum: |
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| Indians of North America | 3 |
| Principles of International Economics | 3 |
| Contemporary Canadian Literature | 3 |
| Latin America | 3 |
| Europe | 3 |
| Russia and Associated States | 3 |
| Asia | 3 |
| Africa South of Sahara | 3 |
| Mao’s China | 3 |
| Japan | 3 |
| Women in Modern Europe | 3 |
| Russia since 1801 | 3 |
| France from Napoleon to de Gaulle | 3 |
| Modern India | 3 |
| Latin America: The 20th Century | 3 |
| Mexico | 3 |
| Central America and the Caribbean | 3 |
| History of Canada | 3 |
| Britain and the Commonwealth | 3 |
| Western European Politics | 3 |
| Politics of Post-Communist States | 3 |
| Politics of China and Japan | 3 |
| African Politics | 3 |
| Canadian Politics | 3 |
| Politics in the Middle East | 3 |
| Latin American Politics | 3 |
| International Business | 3 |
| Medieval Art | 3 |
| Art in Europe during the 17th and 18th Centuries |
3 |
| Renaissance Art in Italy | 3 |
| Art in Europe During the 19th Century | 3 |
| Renaissance Art in Northern Europe | 3 |
| Intercultural Communication | 3 |
| This list is not exhaustive. You may propose other courses. |
For More Information:
Interdisciplinary Studies Committee
Request information from Undergraduate Admissions
Career Opportunities
Degrees and Preparation
An interdisciplinary education offers limitless career opportunities. Graduates of interdisciplinary programs
enjoy careers in:
- business
- industry
- engineering
- law
- education
- medicine
- sales
- art
- nonprofit settings
- communication
Career Outlook
Employment for those with a degree in interdisciplinary studies is growing. Job prospects are especially good for those with advanced degrees.
A&S Careers Program
Creates links among students, alumni and local professionals. You will have access to:
- lending library with up-to-date, career-related publications
- computer workroom for resume writing and employment research
- volunteer, paid and for-credit internship placement on and off campus
- department-specific mentoring arrangements
The University of Akron
302 Buchtel Common. Akron, OH 44325
Phone: 330-972-7111
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