Coloring Outside the Lines: Interdisciplinary Studies 

 

What is Interdisciplinary Studies? 

Interdisciplinary studies is an academic approach that encourages the integration of knowledge, methods, and perspectives from multiple disciplines to address complex problems and understand the interconnected nature of various fields of study. It involves breaking down traditional disciplinary boundaries and fostering collaboration between different academic disciplines. 

The purpose of interdisciplinary studies is to bridge gaps between disciplines and create a more comprehensive understanding of issues that cannot be fully addressed by a single discipline alone. It recognizes that many real-world challenges require a multidimensional perspective and a diverse range of skills and knowledge. 

Why Choose a Graduate Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies? 

In interdisciplinary studies, students can explore topics from different angles, combining insights and methodologies from various disciplines such as humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, arts, engineering, and more. This approach allows them to gain a broader understanding of complex issues and develop critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills that transcend disciplinary boundaries. 

With degree paths that vary dramatically, MAIS encourages students' freedom and creativity while recognizing the demand for high quality, non-traditional graduate programs that transcend disciplinary boundaries. 

The benefits of interdisciplinary studies include: 

  1. Holistic understanding: It enables students to see the connections between different disciplines and gain a more comprehensive understanding of complex issues. 

  1. Innovative thinking: By combining insights from multiple disciplines, students can develop innovative and creative approaches to problem-solving. 

  1. Collaboration skills: Interdisciplinary studies emphasize teamwork and collaboration, preparing students to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise. 

  1. Adaptability: Interdisciplinary studies cultivate adaptability and the ability to navigate and thrive in interdisciplinary and rapidly changing professional environments. 

  1. Career flexibility: Graduates of interdisciplinary studies programs possess a broad skill set and knowledge base that can be applied to a wide range of careers and industries. 

Why Choose Interdisciplinary Studies at George Mason University? 

The Interdisciplinary Studies (MAIS) program in the College of Humanities & Social Sciences consists of multiple established degree paths that exist in partnership with academic units and faculty across the University. Founded in 1982, Interdisciplinary Studies recognizes the demand for high quality, non-traditional graduate programs that transcend disciplinary boundaries.  Students in MAIS have the flexibility to design their own curriculum, selecting courses and experiences that align with their specific interests and career aspirations. It encourages students' freedom and creativity while maintaining the University's commitment to excellence. 

Growth and change are constants in Interdisciplinary Studies, but our embrace of excellence, freedom, and creativity is timeless. 

George Mason University’s proximity to the Washington, D.C., area means you have access to gaining real world experience, no matter the field you choose to pursue, as well as access to Mason’s large alumni network in the area. Mason's academic programs offer you the chance to fulfill your dreams and take the road less traveled – the path you are choosing!  

Color outside the lines of a traditional master’s degree and create your Master(piece) 

Individualized Studies: design an interdisciplinary graduate program to develop expertise spanning multiple areas to meet your distinctive educational and professional goals 

Computational Social Science: investigate social science questions with modern computational tools 

Energy and Sustainability: find ways to meet present needs for energy and material goods without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs 

Religious Studies: explore the role of religion in intellectual and cultural life, the connections between religion and social justice, and the social impact of religious traditions 

Social Entrepreneurship: engage with real-world issues in industry, nonprofits, government, public policy, and education in an environment where emerging social entrepreneurs can turn innovative ideas into reality. 

Social Justice and Human Rights: imagine and apply strategies for creating and sustaining a more equitable, just, and humane world 

War and the Military in Society: learn to evaluate, analyze, and solve problems related to the use of organized violence, including questions of national security and national strategy, international relations, defense policymaking, and domestic, fiscal, legal, and social policy surrounding the instruments of national defense 

Women and Gender Studies: merge interests in the intersections of gender, sexuality, race, and class with coursework in a discipline of interest such as history, literature, sociology, anthropology, health, education, philosophy, social work, conflict analysis and resolution, or the arts