Interdisciplinary Major (B.A.)

Students whose interests cross traditional disciplinary and departmental lines, and who are not interested in the possibility of a dual major, may design their own major under the direction of two faculty advisors. A student who undertakes this challenge works with his or her advisors to prepare a proposed study plan that includes the major’s relevance to the student’s academic goals and career interests. (NOTE: Because of accreditation and other issues, interdisciplinary majors may not be suitable in certain combinations of disciplines.) Plans for interdisciplinary majors must be approved by two faculty advisors in the disciplines of the proposed degree and the Vice President for Academic Affairs. Approved plans reflect the coherence and depth of a traditional major. Other degree requirements, such as Core Curriculum, remain in effect for students pursuing interdisciplinary majors. Students may apply for an interdisciplinary major any time after completion of the first semester of work at the College and not later than the beginning of the junior year. A GPA of at least 2.5 is required for approval. Interested students should consult with their academic advisors or the Vice President for Academic Affairs as early as possible in their careers at the College. Requirements for the Interdisciplinary Major (1) At least forty two (42) semester hours in courses that constitute a coherent field of study outside of traditional disciplinary lines, including at least three semester hours representing a culminating integrative experience in the major (e.g., a senior essay, an independent study project, or an internship, or other capstone experience). (2) At least eighteen (18) semester hours from a single department. (3) Approval by two faculty advisors and the Vice President for Academic Affairs.