Interdiscipliary Studies
The B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies (IDST) allows students to combine an interdisciplinary minor with in-depth coursework in a disciplinary department to create a customized major reflecting their own interests. Through a combination of interdisciplinary and disciplinary courses, students gain a deeper understanding of these areas of study and develop competencies in oral and written communication, critical thinking, data analysis, teamwork, and leadership.There are 3 concentrations: Capitalism Studies, Health & Medical Humanities and Women’s & Gender Studies.
Sample Occupations
- Communications Coordinator
- Operations Office
- Public Policy advisor
- Health Clinic Coordinator
- Human Rights Advocate
- Journalist
- Lawyer
- Human Resources Diversity Specialist
- Community Health Promoter
- Child and Youth Worker
- Sociologist
- Foreign Service Officer
- Librarian
- Union Organizer
Types of Employers
- Education
- Law
- Government
- Non-profits
- Banking
- Marketing
- Mental Health facilities
- Corporate Human Resources Departments
Preparing for your career in
Nonprofit: Seek volunteer and internship positions in nonprofit organizations, learn how to write grants and understand budgeting and fiscal management, investigate service corps positions as a way to enter the field, gain leadership roles.
Social Services: Volunteer with an organization that provides counseling or social services to children and families, become familiar with the operational structures of government and nonprofit social service agencies, develop strong communication skills, supplement curriculum with courses in social work, sociology, or psychology, learn to work well with people from differing socioeconomic, racial, ethic and religious backgrounds, pursue graduate work and licensure in counseling or social work to become a therapist, develop a wide range of skills such as presenting, grant writing, and fundraising for nonprofit positions, participate in campus “alternative break” trips, work as a camp counselor.
Business: Demonstrate initiative, attention to detail, organization, problem-solving, and leadership skills. Consider taking interpersonal communication and public speaking classes, take business classes, obtain sales experience with companies catering to children’s needs, join retail or business student organizations, gain leadership experience.
How do I know if its right for me?
ASSESS: Take a career assessment, such as PathwayU, to see how your interests, values, and personality fit with majors and careers.
RESEARCH: Research the careers on this WCIDWAMI and thousands of other careers using O*Net Online, The Occupational Outlook Handbook or FirstHand.
EXPLORE: Learn more about a career field of interest by job shadowing, attending a career panel, or participating in a Career Trek. Further your exploration while gaining valuable skills by completing an internship, co-op, volunteer, or research experience.