Interdisciplinary Studies (M.A.)

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Because the Interdisciplinary Studies program is tailored to meet the needs of individuals all accepted students are provisionally admitted into the MAIS program and will work in tandem with their advisor to finalize his/her program learning objectives and program of study, using classes that are relevant to supporting the student in achieving their educational goals. Students accepted into the MAIS program will also need to choose how they plan to complete their program of study with a thesis or portfolio option. During the last semester of study, the student is required to successfully complete an oral examination (see below).

The MAIS program requires at least 32 credit hours, with courses taken from 2-3 academic departments. Fifty percent of course work must be completed at the 700-level or above with no more than 12 credits in one academic discipline. Program of Study must include coursework in statistics and applied learning (MAIS internship). ## Board of Regents’ approval in progress.

Oral Examination

The purpose of the oral examination at the completion of the program of study is to provide the student and the University an opportunity to assess the effectiveness of the program of study in attaining the student’s learning objectives. The oral examination is conducted in a manner that has the student demonstrate proficiency in their intended knowledge, skill and abilities. Moreover, the oral examination will assess the student’s communication skills, critical thinking ability, and proficiency in the subject matter studied.

The oral defense is approximately two hours. The examination committee is comprised of two to three faculty members from differing academic disciplines representative of the student’s Program of Study and the student’s advisor. The Graduate Dean is an ex officio member of the oral committee and attends as schedule allows.