Interdisciplinary studies
The Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies provides opportunities for students to combine disciplines in unique ways. Students can apply for a nontraditional, individualized and interdisciplinary course of study by designing their own curriculum.
University College
The University College offers an individualized B.I.S. program for students who already have some college credits, and who wish to create an individualized curriculum not available in traditional majors. With advising, students in this undergraduate program are able to design a degree compatible with their academic, career and personal interests. Some students pursue the B.I.S. degree to increase their chances for advancement in their jobs; some realize that the degree will provide personal or job satisfaction; and others want to design a program that will help them change careers. Regardless of the need, each student must define a specific focus area that combines two or more disciplines.
Admission requirements
To be eligible to apply to the individualized B.I.S. program offered by the University College, prospective students must:
- Attend one orientation session.
- Complete a supplemental application, curriculum plan and goal statement.
- Have a goal that cannot be met by another degree program at VCU.
- Have a minimum of 30 semester hours of college-level work.
- Have a minimum GPA of 2.0.
Additional information
For more information about the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies, contact:
Virginia Commonwealth University
University College
Pamela Wiegardt
P.O. Box 842002
Richmond, Virginia 23284-2002
Phone: (804) 827-8648
Fax: (804) 827-4511
College of Humanities and Sciences
Liberal studies concentration for early and elementary education
For students planning careers in early or elementary education, the appropriate major choice for freshmen is the liberal studies for early and elementary education concentration in the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies program.
The concentration requires a minimum of 120 credits within a highly structured, pre-professional program that combines with the Extended Teacher Preparation Program in the School of Education, and results in the Master of Teaching degree. The curriculum is carefully articulated to provide interdisciplinary course work and in-school learning experiences. Students in this concentration also will benefit from belonging to a community of learners. A number of general education courses are either required or recommended as electives to prepare for the core curriculum of advanced courses in the concentration as well as the Extended Teacher Preparation Program. Recommended courses represents the four core content areas (English and communication, mathematics, sciences, and social sciences), as well as pre-service education courses.
Additional information
For more information about the liberal studies concentration for early and elementary education, contact:Virginia Commonwealth University
College of Humanities and Sciences
Jennifer Lawrence
P.O. Box 842507
Richmond, Virginia 23284-2507
Phone: (804) 827-8648
Fax: (804) 828-2171
