M.A. in Cross-disciplinary Studies

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Program Description
The M.A. in Cross-disciplinary Studies is multidisciplinary, experiential, and allows students to self-design their graduate studies. The program is designed to meet the needs of students who are seeking a broader learning forum and who appreciate the unique self-design of cross-disciplinary studies. The M.A. program provides intellectual advancement and the opportunity to expand and enrich educational horizons in keeping with the liberal studies traditions. The M.A. program utilizes a multidisciplinary approach and variety of perspectives for observing, analyzing, and addressing contemporary social issues. Students focus on systemic approaches and methodologies when studying human challenges. The M.A. utilizes experiential learning to provide students with hands-on training where theory and practice are integrated.

The M.A. consists of an 11-course (33 credits) sequence that includes core classes, practica, and a 12-credit concentration track.

Program Formats
The M.A. aims at convenience and accommodation by utilizing online course delivery format and self-designed programs. The students enrolled in the M.A. programs are afforded the greatest flexibility in self-selecting and self-directing their concentrated areas of interest, while at the same time retaining and reinforcing an emphasis on general professional skills. Students can complete the program completely online, but have a large selection of on-campus courses from which to choose.

Students may enroll full or part time, taking six to nine credit hours per trimester. Students who attend full-time can expect to complete the program in 19 months. Part-time students will complete the program in 2 ½ years. Summer attendance is mandatory.

Master’s Thesis Option
Students who wish to complete a 6-credit Master’s Thesis may do so by completing in 3 additional credits. Students must request permission from the Director before enrolling for the Master’s Thesis.

Degree Plans
Below is a sample of a degree plan for a full-time student who begins their studies in Fall trimester. Degree plans will be modified based on a student’s enrollment date and pace of study.

Degree Plan: 33-36 credits hours

Examinations and Evaluations
In addition to successfully completing all course work, and obtaining the required practicum hours, students pass a comprehensive examination to be awarded the M.A. in Cross-disciplinary Studies. When you have completed all coursework and practicum hours, have maintained a "B" average in all classes with no "incomplete" grades, and are a "student in good standing" with no disciplinary actions pending or disciplinary tasks to complete, you will be eligible to take the comprehensive examination.

Concentration Tracks
M.A. students choose a concentration track. Currently, concentrations are available in the Graduate School of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Allied Health and Nursing (Masters of Medical Science), Graduate School of Computer and Information Sciences, the Oceanographic Center. Concentration tracks consist on 12-credits within one of the above schools or colleges.