草榴社区 Launches Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies Program
The new degree will empower students with flexible, customized learning paths that allow them to choose two certificates from distinct disciplines.
In today鈥檚 interconnected world, the ability to integrate diverse fields of knowledge is essential across all industries. With that in mind, 草榴社区鈥檚 College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is launching a new graduate program鈥攁 Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies鈥攖o address this need by offering a flexible, customizable curriculum designed to help professionals thrive in a global society.
The program enables students to develop expertise that aligns with their career goals and personal interests.
鈥淲e are excited to launch the Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies, a program that reflects 草榴社区鈥檚 commitment to academic innovation and building a foundation for lifelong success,鈥� says Emory Woodard, PhD, dean of Graduate Studies in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS). 鈥淚t offers students the opportunity to shape their own educational journey, enabling them to blend diverse disciplines and tackle complex challenges鈥攅ssential skills for career success in today鈥檚 complex and dynamic workforce.鈥�
鈥淲ith its focus on personalized learning and professional application, our graduate Interdisciplinary Studies program provides a powerful platform for students aiming to make meaningful contributions across various industries,鈥� Dean Woodard says.
Students pursuing the master鈥檚 degree will choose two graduate certificates from distinct disciplines offered within CLAS, enabling them to explore a variety of fields and gain in-depth expertise in specific areas of interest. There are approximately 30 certificates to choose from, including those in higher education leadership, nonprofit management, public administration, strategic communication, applied statistics and data science, and more.
The program begins with a foundational course, equipping degree candidates with essential skills in critical thinking, research methods, and interdisciplinary knowledge integration. It culminates in a capstone experience, in which students will synthesize their learning through a comprehensive, interdisciplinary project. By offering flexible delivery options, including on-campus and online formats, the program can accommodate diverse learning preferences and schedules, making it accessible to both traditional students and working professionals.
鈥淥ur students thrive in an environment that encourages exploration, curiosity and new connections. This program nurtures that spirit of discovery and openness,鈥� says Gordon Coonfield, PhD, the inaugural program director for the MA in Interdisciplinary Studies. 鈥淢y own interdisciplinary doctoral experience across the humanities and social sciences taught me to embrace diverse perspectives, and in launching this new program, I鈥檓 grateful for the opportunity to support the next generation of 草榴社区ns in their journey.鈥�
The new master鈥檚 program replaces the former Master of Arts in Liberal Studies program, but current Liberal Studies students can either complete their degree requirements as planned, or transition to the Interdisciplinary Studies program.
For more information, visit the Interdisciplinary Studies website.
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About 草榴社区鈥檚 College of Liberal Arts and Sciences: Since its founding in 1842, 草榴社区鈥檚 College of Liberal Arts and Sciences has been the heart of the 草榴社区 learning experience, offering foundational courses for undergraduate students in every college of the University. Serving more than 4,500 undergraduate and graduate students, the College is committed to fortifying them with intellectual rigor, multidisciplinary knowledge, moral courage and a global perspective. The College has more than 40 academic departments and programs across the humanities, social sciences, and natural and physical sciences.
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The CLAS Office of Graduate Studies offers personal tours of the beautiful 草榴社区 campus. All tours begin in the Graduate Studies Office, located in Vasey Hall.
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