Interdisciplinary Studies (M.S.)

Program Contact/Coordinator

Nicole Lounsbery, Interim Dean
Graduate School
Morrill Hall 130, Box 2201
605-688-4181

Program Information

The M.S. in Interdisciplinary Sciences program is an innovative, flexible, and highly individualized graduate program designed to meet students’ academic and professional goals. Students will work with their advisor to finalize their plan of study in at least two or three disciplines, using classes that are relevant to supporting the student in achieving their educational goals. Students will complete a plan of study with a research/design paper or coursework only option.

Course Delivery Format

Courses are delivered through online and face-to-face instruction.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Master of Science	Option B - Research/Design Paper	32 Credit Hours
	Option C - Coursework Only	35 Credit Hours

Core Requirements

Coursework must be selected from two (2) or three (3) distinct academic areas, excluding pedagogy. If two academic areas are selected, the student must complete no fewer than twelve (12) credit hours in each area and no less than one (1) credit hour of capstone experience. If three academic areas are selected, the student must complete no fewer than nine (9) credit hours and no less than one (1) credit hour of capstone experience. An academic area is defined by courses taught under the same prefix (e.g. BIOL, ENGL, MCOM, MICR, NRM, OM, PE, SOC, SPCM, etc.).

Select one of the following options

Option B - Research/Design Paper

Academic Area “1” Credits: 12
Academic Area “2” Credits: 12
Capstone Credits: 1
Electives Credits: 7

Academic Area “1” Credits: 9
Academic Area “2” Credits: 9
Academic Area “3” Credits: 9
Capstone Credits: 1
Electives Credits: 4

Option C - Coursework Only

Academic Area “1” Credits: 12
Academic Area “2” Credits: 12
Capstone Credits: 1
Electives Credits: 10

Academic Area “1” Credits: 9
Academic Area “2” Credits: 9
Academic Area “3” Credits: 9
Capstone Credits: 1
Electives Credits: 7

Total Required Credits: 32 (Option B), 35 (Option C)

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: Not required
TOEFL: Department requirement of 525 paper-based, 71 Internet-based
IELTS: 5.5

Applicants must submit a personal statement identifying 2 or 3 specific academic areas to be included on their plan of study.

General Requirements

Graduate students should consult with their advisor before registering for graduate coursework.

For additional information refer to the Master’s Degree Requirements .