So, what is interdisciplinary studies? In short, interdisciplinary studies combines two areas of interest, providing an opportunity to study each topic while learning how they are connected.
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If you are passionate about multiple subjects and are interested in creating your own major, then this type of degree may be a good fit for you.
What Is Interdisciplinary Studies?
Interdisciplinary studies consists of exploring a combination of different subject areas and applying various methods of learning.
While you may be able to tailor your major to fit your interests, some programs do offer a more structured approach. One of the main reasons that people find themselves drawn to an interdisciplinary studies program is the ability to customize your own curriculum.
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Rather than working your way through a premade course list, you might have the opportunity to select classes across fields that explore your chosen topics. Although it may be tempting to think of interdisciplinary studies as a collection of random courses, this usually isn’t the reality. Courses are paired together intentionally, keeping in mind student interest and potential career paths.
Here are some key aspects of an interdisciplinary degree program:
- Allows you to study two or more subjects simultaneously
- Highlights connections between areas of study
- Can let you tailor your degree to your interests
- Opens up many career opportunities
- Strengthens transferable skills, such as critical thinking
While nearly every interdisciplinary degree will be unique, it’s beneficial to consider areas of study that connect in some way. For example, earning an interdisciplinary degree in gender studies may combine elements of literature, history, and psychology.
No matter the topics you choose to focus on, an interdisciplinary program will likely leave you with strong analysis and critical thinking skills. You can also develop your ability to offer innovative solutions and perspectives.
BFA vs. BA vs. BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
You can choose between a variety of degrees in interdisciplinary studies. A Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Arts, and Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies each offer the option to study within specific fields.
- BFA in Interdisciplinary Studies. If you earn your BFA, you have completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. Should you pursue a BFA in Interdisciplinary Studies, you’ll select related topics within the performing arts arena, such as dance and music.
- BA in Interdisciplinary Studies. Completing your BA means that you have earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. A BA in Interdisciplinary Studies means that you have chosen to study and combine liberal arts and humanities topics for your major.
- BS in Interdisciplinary Studies. Unlike the previous two degrees, a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree will involve subjects within the sciences. A BS in Interdisciplinary Studies program will offer the opportunity to combine science courses with another area of study, such as business.
The right degree path for you will depend on your personal goals. No matter which degree path you select, you can have the chance to explore a variety of academic disciplines and learn how they connect to your own interests. You can also advance your adaptability skills as you switch between courses in different fields.
Multi / Interdisciplinary Studies Careers & Salaries
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, people who earn their degree in interdisciplinary studies often go on to careers in management, education, healthcare, and business or finance. Your chosen areas of study will impact your qualifications and career options post-graduation.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Public Relations and Fundraising Managers | $119,860 |
| Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers | $110,140 |
| Management Analysts | $93,000 |
| Registered Nurses | $77,600 |
| Public Relations Specialists |
$62,800 |
| Human Resources Specialists | $62,290 |
| High School Teachers | $61,820 |
| Dietitians and Nutritionists | $61,650 |
| Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners | $49,470 |
| News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists | $48,370 |
Because this degree offers a lot of flexibility, you can better align your studies with your personal career goals. With the right planning, this can also help you prepare you for specific roles within a company or organization. While earning a BA in Interdisciplinary Studies can open up many doors, having a degree does not promise a certain income or position.
How to Know If a Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies Is Right for You
Determining whether a degree in interdisciplinary studies is the right path for you will often depend on your own unique interests and goals.
Here are some factors to consider as you make your decision:
- Personal interests. Interdisciplinary studies is a good major if there are specific subjects that you are passionate about. Do you have a strong understanding of what you want to study? If your answer is yes, then choosing your own concentrations will likely be easier for you.
- Career goals. If you have a specific or specialized career in mind, an interdisciplinary degree can allow you to put together a curriculum that teaches the knowledge and skills you need. For example, if you are interested in a career in human biology, you can choose courses that cover biology basics in addition to sociology classes.
- Dedication. Unlike a traditional bachelor degree program, an interdisciplinary degree program may ask you to create your own curriculum. It helps to be focused and dedicated when planning your coursework with an advisor.
If you are passionate about specific subjects and are drawn to the idea of creating your own major, then an interdisciplinary studies degree might provide the guidance and flexibility you need.
Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Pros and Cons
In order to develop an understanding of a major in interdisciplinary studies, it can be helpful to explore the pros and cons.
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There will likely be additional benefits and drawbacks to this degree that are unique to your life. It can also be helpful to consider a potential curriculum prior to applying.
How to Choose a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies Program
When you are applying to programs to earn your bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies, it may be useful to consider these factors:
- Framework. An established framework for interdisciplinary studies can ensure that your program is organized.
- Subjects offered. You can check ahead of time to make sure that the concentrations you are interested in are available.
- Professor and advisor support. If you do not have a traditional curriculum laid out for you, it’s helpful to have clear communication with your professors and advisors. A supportive team can make it easier for you to accomplish your goals.
It is always strategic to research a program of interest before applying, but the freedom and flexibility of an interdisciplinary degree makes the research part of the process even more essential.
What Do You Study in Interdisciplinary Studies?
What you study in an interdisciplinary studies degree program will depend on the academic areas you choose to focus on. Because this degree makes it possible to customize your major by combining two or more traditional areas of study, the curriculum will vary between students.
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Typically, interdisciplinary studies programs consist of core coursework in the two or three concentrations you select. In addition to these courses, you’ll take the electives and general education requirements expected of all undergraduate students. In some programs, you may be asked to complete a thesis or a final project prior to graduation.
What Are Examples of Interdisciplinary Majors?
An interdisciplinary major often combines two areas of study that can inform each other in some way. Examples of interdisciplinary studies majors include:
- International Business: This major combines business courses—such as marketing, economics, and accounting—with international studies courses, like political science, anthropology, and religious studies.
- Art Therapy: This major combines traditional art courses with psychology courses, such as cognitive and social psychology.
- Mathematical Finance: This major combines math courses with traditional economics and business courses, such as microeconomics and accounting.
Selecting two subject areas that work well together can help you tailor your major to a specific career path.
What Can You Do with an Interdisciplinary Studies Degree?
The flexibility and creativity involved in the design of your interdisciplinary studies degree makes it possible to prepare for careers that align with your passions and goals.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many students who earn their degree in interdisciplinary studies go on to pursue careers in management, education, or healthcare. Others find jobs in business and financial operations or office and administrative support.
Graduates who personalized their degrees may go on to find specialized roles that allow them to utilize their unique academic background. As with any degree, completing an interdisciplinary studies program will not guarantee a specific position or salary.
Can You Be a Teacher with a Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies?
This degree is beneficial for future teachers and professors because it provides the opportunity to examine and explore how different subjects connect with one another.
For example, if you hope to teach business but are also taking courses in psychology, you can share with your students how human behavior impacts and informs various business practices. Research is key when creating your curriculum. If you want to be a teacher, then you want to be sure that you’re selecting the required courses you need to graduate with your preferred teaching degree.
What’s the Difference Between Integrative Studies vs. Interdisciplinary Studies?
Integrative studies and interdisciplinary studies differ in their focuses and learning strategies.
| Interdisciplinary Studies | Integrative Studies |
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An integrative degree allows you to delve deeply into one topic while applying knowledge and skills from other areas. On the other hand, an interdisciplinary program lets you devote your time to studying and integrating multiple subjects.
What’s the Difference Between Interdisciplinary Studies vs. General Studies?
Interdisciplinary studies lets you combine two or more topics into one major, while general studies allows you to explore a little bit of everything.
| Interdisciplinary Studies | General Studies |
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The major that’s right for you will depend on your career goals post-graduation and your personal interests.
Is an Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Good?
Yes, an interdisciplinary studies degree is good for many students. This degree provides agency in the world of traditional academics, allowing you to combine subjects to align with your interests or prepare for a specialized career.
The skills and qualifications you develop will depend on your chosen areas of study. Many professionals go on to work in education, business, healthcare, or office support. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects positive job growth for many of these sectors.
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For instance, education, business, and financial occupations are expected to see average job growth over the next ten years, while above average job growth is projected for healthcare occupations.
Getting Your Bachelors in Interdisciplinary Studies Online
Students who pursue a BA in Interdisciplinary Studies tend to have more control over their academic path, often tailoring their studies to align with specific interests and career goals.
In addition to a personalized major, many students who earn this degree go on to work in specialized roles within education, business, and healthcare. Not only can you graduate with a deeper knowledge of multiple subjects, but you can also develop analytical and critical thinking skills for your future career.
You can get started by exploring the variety of online bachelors in interdisciplinary studies programs offered by accredited universities.
