Program: Interdisciplinary Studies (M.A.) - University of South Dakota

Apr 08, 2025

2007-2009 Graduate Catalog

Because the Interdisciplinary Studies program is tailored to meet the needs of individuals, it is anticipated that a wide diversity of courses be taken in a number of departments. As stated earlier, each student develops his/her own individual program of study, using classes that are relevant to supporting the student in achieving the goals of their proposed program of study. Each applicant needs to show, in writing, why the particular program is appropriate in terms of the individual’s career or personal development. Each student, once admitted, will be given an advisor selected from the MAIS Committee members.

Plan B (non–thesis): 32 credit hours

Plan B is normally the only plan available for this degree. Plan B requires 32 credit hours. Only 12 credit hours may be taken from any one department. Also, the 32‑hour requirement is a minimum and programs may exceed that number. Finally, a maximum of nine hours of previously completed course work may be used toward the degree. This course work may only be used with the approval of the Selection Committee and the Graduate Dean.

Final Interview

A final oral interview is required to complete the degree program. The final oral exam is given by a three person committee, including the student’s MAIS advisor and two faculty members from whom the student has taken courses in the MAIS program of study. The purpose of the oral exam at the completion of the course work in the program is to provide the student and The University an opportunity to assess the effectiveness of the program of study in attaining the student’s goals. The oral examination assesses the student’s communication skills and ability to think critically. The examination does not attempt to assess in-depth knowledge gained in specific courses.