Jimmy D. Case College of Literature, Arts, & Social Sciences

DEPARTMENT OF LANGUAGES & LITERATURE

Interdisciplinary Studies

The Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (MAIS) is a flexible, customizable graduate degree designed for students who want to explore complex questions and issues through the lens of multiple academic disciplines. This program is ideal for those seeking to integrate knowledge across diverse fields such as the sciences, humanities, arts, communication, and social sciences to address real-world challenges with creativity and depth.

Students in the MAIS program create a unique course of study by selecting 33 credit hours of graduate coursework from three academic disciplines. The discipline with the highest number of credit hours serves as the anchor field of the program. The interdisciplinary approach encourages students to:

  • Examine broad societal, cultural, and environmental issues
  • Explore diverse methodologies across disciplines
  • Develop a comprehensive and innovative academic foundation
  • Enhance their problem-solving, research, and communication skills

Program Highlights

  • Personalized Curriculum: Students work closely with a faculty advisor and a three-member committee—each representing one of the selected disciplines—to design a degree plan aligned with their academic and career goals.
  • Capstone Experience: All students complete IS 5300 – Interdisciplinary Studies Capstone Project, culminating in a formal oral and/or visual presentation that also serves as the comprehensive examination.
  • Collaborative Mentorship: Faculty from each chosen discipline guide students through their coursework and capstone project, offering diverse perspectives and academic support.
  • Broad Career Application: Graduates are well-prepared for careers in education, public service, nonprofit leadership, communication, research, and more.

Admissions & Advising

Upon admission, students will:

  • Meet with the Interdisciplinary Studies Program Advisor to develop a formal degree plan
  • Choose three academic disciplines with graduate-level coursework
  • Form a faculty committee to guide and evaluate their progress
  • Complete any required leveling coursework, depending on chosen fields

The MAIS degree empowers students to tailor their education to their interests and ambitions, making it a versatile and forward-thinking choice for today’s interdisciplinary world.

Careers in Interdisciplinary Studies

  • Nonprofit Program Manager
  • Policy Analyst
  • Higher Education Administrator
  • Communications Director
  • Museum or Cultural Program Coordinator
  • Community Outreach Specialist
  • Curriculum Developer
  • Public Affairs Consultant
  • Grant Writer
  • Corporate Trainer
  • Research Analyst
  • Creative Director