Choosing a College for Interdisciplinary Studies
When I was a high school senior, I found myself torn between my love for literature and my fascination with computer science. I remember sitting in my guidance counselor’s office, flipping through college brochures and feeling overwhelmed by the choices. It wasn’t until I discovered the world of interdisciplinary studies that I realized I didn’t have to choose between my passions. Instead, I could combine them in a way that would allow me to explore the intersections between seemingly disparate fields.
As an education counselor who has guided countless students through the college selection process, I’ve seen firsthand how interdisciplinary studies can open up a world of possibilities. In this article, I’ll share my insights and experiences to help you navigate the exciting but sometimes daunting process of choosing a college for interdisciplinary studies.
What are Interdisciplinary Studies?
Before diving into the college selection process, it’s important to understand what interdisciplinary studies entail. Interdisciplinary studies, often referred to as IDS, involve combining two or more academic disciplines to create a unique course of study. This approach allows students to explore the connections between different fields and develop a more holistic understanding of complex issues.
Interdisciplinary programs can vary widely, ranging from established majors like Environmental Studies or Neuroscience to more customized paths that students can design themselves. The key is to find a program that aligns with your interests and career goals while providing the flexibility to explore multiple disciplines.
Why Choose Interdisciplinary Studies?
As someone who has witnessed the transformative power of interdisciplinary education, I can attest to its many benefits. Here are a few reasons why you might consider pursuing an interdisciplinary degree:
- Versatility: Interdisciplinary studies equip you with a diverse skill set that can be applied to a wide range of careers. Employers often value the ability to think critically and approach problems from multiple perspectives.
- Innovation: By combining different fields, you can generate new ideas and solutions that may not be possible within the confines of a single discipline. Interdisciplinary thinking is at the heart of innovation.
- Personalization: Interdisciplinary programs often allow for more flexibility and customization, enabling you to tailor your education to your unique interests and goals.
- Real-world relevance: Many of the challenges we face today, such as climate change or public health crises, require interdisciplinary approaches. By studying multiple disciplines, you can better understand and address these complex issues.
How to Choose a College for Interdisciplinary Studies
Now that you understand the value of interdisciplinary studies, let’s explore how to choose the right college for your needs. Here are the key factors to consider:
1. Program Offerings
When researching colleges, start by looking at their interdisciplinary program offerings. Some schools have well-established interdisciplinary majors, while others may offer more flexible options for designing your own course of study.As of 2024, some of the top colleges for interdisciplinary studies include:
- Arizona State University: Known for its innovative approach to education, ASU offers a wide range of interdisciplinary programs, including the highly-regarded Barrett Honors College.
- University of California, Berkeley: UC Berkeley’s College of Letters and Science offers numerous interdisciplinary majors, such as Cognitive Science and Environmental Economics and Policy.
- Brown University: Brown’s Open Curriculum allows students to design their own interdisciplinary concentrations, fostering a highly personalized educational experience.
- Carleton College: This liberal arts college in Minnesota offers several interdisciplinary programs, including Cognitive Science and Environmental Studies, with a strong emphasis on undergraduate research.
When evaluating program offerings, consider the following:
- Depth and breadth: Does the program offer a balance of depth in individual disciplines and breadth across multiple fields?
- Faculty expertise: Are there faculty members with interdisciplinary research interests who can guide you in your studies?
- Curriculum flexibility: How much freedom do you have to customize your course of study? Can you combine disciplines in creative ways?
- Capstone projects: Does the program require a culminating project that allows you to synthesize your learning across disciplines?
2. Support and Resources
Interdisciplinary studies can be challenging, especially when navigating the complexities of multiple departments and academic requirements. Look for colleges that offer strong support systems for interdisciplinary students:
- Advising: Is there dedicated advising for interdisciplinary students? Do advisors have experience helping students navigate the unique challenges of IDS?
- Interdisciplinary centers or institutes: Some colleges have centers or institutes dedicated to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and research. These can be valuable resources for connecting with like-minded students and faculty.
- Funding opportunities: Are there grants or scholarships available specifically for interdisciplinary research or projects?
- Career services: Does the college’s career center have experience helping interdisciplinary graduates translate their skills to the job market?
From my experience, the colleges that excel in these areas often have a strong culture of interdisciplinary collaboration. For example, at Middlebury College, the Center for Interdisciplinary Research facilitates connections between students and faculty across departments, while also providing funding for interdisciplinary projects.
3. Campus Culture and Community
The right campus culture can make all the difference in your interdisciplinary journey. Look for colleges that foster an environment of curiosity, collaboration, and openness to new ideas:
- Interdisciplinary events and initiatives: Are there regular events, such as symposia or workshops, that bring together students and faculty from different disciplines?
- Student organizations: Are there clubs or groups focused on interdisciplinary topics or projects?
- Collaborative spaces: Does the campus have designated spaces, such as makerspaces or innovation hubs, that encourage interdisciplinary collaboration?
- Faculty-student interaction: Do faculty members actively engage with students across disciplines, perhaps through research opportunities or mentorship programs?
I’ve found that colleges with a strong interdisciplinary culture often have a vibrant, engaged student body. For example, at Hampshire College, students are encouraged to pursue self-designed majors that often span multiple disciplines. This approach fosters a community of curious, motivated learners who are eager to explore the intersections between fields.
4. Location and Opportunities
While the academic program should be your primary focus, don’t overlook the importance of location and opportunities beyond the classroom:
- Proximity to industry: If you’re interested in a particular interdisciplinary field, such as biotech or environmental science, consider colleges located near relevant industries or research centers.
- Internship and research opportunities: Are there robust internship programs or research opportunities that can complement your interdisciplinary studies?
- Study abroad options: Some interdisciplinary programs may benefit from international experiences. Look for colleges with strong study abroad programs that align with your interests.
- Alumni network: A strong, engaged alumni network can be invaluable for connecting with professionals in your desired field and accessing job opportunities.
As an example, students at Northeastern University benefit from the school’s renowned co-op program, which allows them to gain real-world experience in their interdisciplinary fields of study. Similarly, students at the University of Southern California can tap into the resources and opportunities of a major metropolitan area while pursuing their interdisciplinary interests.
My Experience: Navigating the Interdisciplinary Landscape
As an education counselor, I’ve had the privilege of working with students from diverse backgrounds and interests. One of my most rewarding experiences was helping a student named Maria navigate her interdisciplinary journey.
Maria was passionate about both environmental science and public policy, but she struggled to find a program that would allow her to combine these fields effectively. Together, we researched colleges with strong interdisciplinary programs in environmental studies and discovered that the University of Vermont offered a unique major in Environmental Studies with a concentration in Policy and Planning.
What impressed me most about UVM was its commitment to hands-on learning and real-world impact. Maria was able to participate in a semester-long internship with a local environmental nonprofit, where she applied her interdisciplinary knowledge to help shape policy initiatives. This experience not only solidified her career goals but also gave her a competitive edge in the job market.
Through Maria’s journey, I learned the importance of finding a college that not only offers a strong interdisciplinary program but also fosters a supportive community and provides ample opportunities for experiential learning.
Conclusion: Embracing the Interdisciplinary Mindset
Choosing a college for interdisciplinary studies is an exciting but complex process. As you embark on this journey, remember that the goal is not just to find a program that aligns with your interests but to cultivate an interdisciplinary mindset that will serve you well in your academic and professional pursuits.
From my experience, the most successful interdisciplinary students are those who embrace curiosity, collaboration, and a willingness to venture beyond the boundaries of traditional disciplines. They seek out opportunities to engage with diverse perspectives, tackle complex problems, and make meaningful connections between fields.
As you navigate the college selection process, keep these qualities in mind. Look for programs and institutions that will nurture your interdisciplinary passions and provide the resources and support you need to thrive. And remember, your journey is unique – trust your instincts, stay open to new possibilities, and embrace the exciting world of interdisciplinary studies.
