"MCLA's interdisciplinary studies major enabled me to conduct multidisciplinary social science research and analysis on important historical and contemporary topics. It was an outstanding experience." Howard Carter '14, Graduate Student, Dartmouth College, Master of Liberal Studies program, 2016
Interdisciplinary Studies at MCLA offers you the chance to create your own major by combining courses across different disciplines to meet your professional and educational goals.
The Interdisciplinary Studies program provides you with the critical thinking, research,
and writing skills that prepare you for life as a successful and responsible citizen
in an increasingly interconnected world.
Interdisciplinary Studies majors select MCLA courses in close collaboration with an Interdisciplinary Studies faculty advisor. You take four classes taught by IDST faculty members, and complete your program with classes in different disciplines across campus. The program offers internship opportunities and concludes with a senior seminar. As an Interdisciplinary Studies major, you can choose one of the following options:
Self-Designed Program: Lets you design your own degree. Focus on a given theme, such as a geographic region,
a specific question, a historical topic, or an issue/problem in society. Alternatively,
combine two or more disciplines into a multidisciplinary major, such as European Studies,
Film and Theatre, or Psychology and Business Studies.
Pre-Designed Program: We offer pre-structured programs in areas such as Cultural Studies, American Studies,
and International and Global Studies.
Educator Program: Pursue an initial teaching licensure at the early childhood, elementary, or middle
school level by combining a BA in Interdisciplinary Studies with an Education major
and licensure program. For the early childhood and elementary school level, choose two areas of
concentration such as English and Psychology, History and English, or Fine and Performing
Arts and Math. For the middle school level, choose from concentrations in general
science, humanities, or math/science.
ContactDr. Rita Nnodim, Associate Professor
IDST FlowSheet
413.662.5378
A paper by interdisciplinary studies major Justin Therrien ’19, titled “Withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accords,” soon will be published in the University of Chicago Undergraduate Law Magazine. Therrien wants a career in environmental law. “I have been very interested in the environment for a long time, and anything that has to do with protecting it.”
For more information contact Professor Rita Nnodim or Department Administrative Assistant Terrie Pratt
