The Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies meets the needs of students whose academic interests are situated between two or more disciplines and gives them the opportunity to integrate personal and professional growth through exploration of multiple subjects, perspectives, and methodologies in a variety of fields. This allows students to learn concepts and skills that will serve both their careers and develop their aspirations. This degree is suited for traditional undergraduate students as well as adult learners.
The newly re-designed Interdisciplinary Studies degree offers three paths: Integrative Studies, Professional Studies, and an Individualized Track. The degree can be completed on-ground, hybrid, or 100% online,* with part-time and full-time options available. Each track offers ample opportunity for students to tailor their studies to their specific needs and desired skillsets. Read more about each track below.
BSIS Program Requirements
All Bachelor’s degrees from ETSU require a minimum of 120 earned credits. All students
must have an ETSU GPA of 2.0 and (if applicable) a transfer GPA of 2.0 to graduate
with a degree from ETSU. All students within the Division of Cross-Disciplinary Studies
must take a minimum of 12 credit hours as a declared BSIS major in order to receive
a degree from our division. All students earning a degree from ETSU are required to
have a minimum of 30 credits earned at ETSU (or online as an ETSU student) and a minimum
of 50 credits earned at a 4-year institution. A student cannot graduate without having
met all degree program requirements.
*100% online completion is best suited for those students pursuing Professional Studies or the Individualized Track.
Click below to learn more about each concentration.
No Concentration (Individualized)
The Indvidualized Concentration is the most flexible option, as students craft a unique
program of study to align with their interests and professional goals. In consultation
with an academic advisor, students choose 30 credits worth of upper-division courses
across various disciplines. These credits may also be fulfilled by one or more minors.
Many students are able to maximize their previously earned credits by applying them
toward their BSIS program of study.
Learn more about the Individualized Concentration in the Undergraduate Catalog.
Integrative Studies
In the Integrative Studies Concentration students tailor their degrees to their specific interests, all within a structured liberal arts framework.
Coursework in this concentration is valued by new hires, as it demonstrates that students can think creatively and be adaptive to new situations. Students will become lifelong learners who not only function as productive and insightful members of their communities, but also become adaptable workers equipped for long-term career success.
In this concentration, students will take a course in each focal area described below, then take three additional courses in a selected focal area:
- Civics, Politics, and Law
- History, Culture, and Ethnicity
- Literature, Fine Arts, and Creative Production
- Philosophy, Religion, & Spirituality
- Science and Technology
Learn more about the Integrative Studies Concentration in the Undergraduate Catalog.
Professional Studies
In the Professional Studies Concentration, students develop leadership and communication skills applicable to work in a variety of areas. This degree can be completed 100% online, but students could also complete the degree with a combination of online and on-ground courses. Students will work with their advisor to determine which courses are appropriate for them.
For many students, this degree option offers the opportunity to hone skills they already have. This program is most suitable for adults who have completed an Associate's degree, or, at minimum, some college credit. Many students in this degree are already in the workforce and looking for opportunities to advance in their careers. Professional Studies is ideal for those students seeking, for example, to move into leadership or managerial positions within their organizations.
In this concentration, students will take a course in each focal area described below, then take four additional courses in a selected focal area:
- Professional Communication
- Organizational Environment and Behavior
- Professional Leadership
- Technology in the Professions
Learn more about the Professional Studies Concentration in the Undergraduate Catalog.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What kind of student is the Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies designed for?
With flexibility and a curriculum designed to encourage critical thinking skills, the online program can serve the student working full-time and raising a family, the veteran/active military member seeking to earn a degree, and anyone else seeking to earn a degree. The hybrid or on-ground program can serve the traditional student interested in a program of study that takes a liberal arts approach while creating transferrable skills and cultivating professional development. -
What is the Program of Study?
The Program of Study is the written plan developed by the student and their advisor. Together, they will chart the courses needed to meet ETSU graduation requirements and the degree program requirements. Overall, students will earn a minimum of 120 hours total coursework. The plan may include previous college credit. -
What is required to get started in the BSIS?
- Apply and be accepted to ETSU.
- Schedule an advising appointment to begin developing your program of study.
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Can I go on to graduate school?
Students interested in graduate school should check the prerequisites of the programs to which they are interested in applying to ensure alignment between their undergraduate programs of study and graduate program admission requirements.
Program Advisors: Jo Anne Smith (Hybrid and Main Campus), SmithJA5@etsu.edu; Thomas Hilton (Athletes and Online), hiltontd1@etsu.edu