About Us

What is Interdisciplinary Studies?

The Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies (IDS) is a unique degree program administered by Metropolitan College at the University of New Orleans.  It is an interdisciplinary program intended to provide versatility for students seeking to design an academic plan of coherent concentrations through the process of integrative learning.  IDS focuses on students who desire the flexibility of a curriculum designed to balance work and life responsibilities with educational opportunities.  IDS allows students to develop a learning experience that helps meet individual and professional goals.

What is meant by integrative learning?

Integrative learning refers to the process of combining and coordinating academic elements into a whole or aggregate.   IDS students develop a 36-credit hour integrative learning plan (ILP) with the guidance and assistance of IDS professional staff. The ILP will incorporate a minimum of three subject areas that clearly represent a focus for your studies. Popular ILP concentrations in recent years have included such areas as Business and Urban Studies, Health Management and Marketing, Legal Studies in Contemporary American Society, American Studies, Public Relations, Child and Family Development, Pre-Counseling and Social Work, Multicultural Studies and many others.  Unique ILP development is encouraged.

How long will it take to complete an IDS degree?

That depends on whether you are starting as a new incoming freshman or applying prior college transfer credit.  The minimum total required for degree completion is 120 creditable hours. Programs of study leading to the IDS degree include 56 hours of course work designed to satisfy the University’s general degree requirements in English, mathematics, natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, computer literacy and oral communication. Students plan the remainder of their program around a 36 hour integrative learning plan (ILP) of particular personal or career interest to you.  Additional components of the program include a 1-credit introductory seminar, periodic process writings, and a 1-credit capstone experience.  The remaining hours include electives or prerequisite course work to support ILP development or other interests.  The program requires a minimum of 45-credit hours in upper-division (junior/senior) course work within the degree.

What can I do with an IDS degree?

One answer to this question is, “Basically the same thing you would do with any other degree!”  Another is that the answer lies within your interests, wishes and plans for your future. All degree programs should provide you with the opportunity to obtain and demonstrate four very important skill sets: analytical and critical thinking skills; written and verbal communication skills; the demonstrated ability to set and reach academic and professional goals; and perhaps the most important skill of all, the ability to continue learning and cope with change.  The IDS program is different only in the interdisciplinary nature of your plan. Many of our 150+ graduates each year are employed in business, industry, government agencies, or operate their own small businesses. Many others have entered advanced academic programs in allied health, law, business administration, urban studies, education, counseling, social work, and many other fields of study.

It’s not about the degree; it’s about the qualities it takes to get one.  It requires discipline, commitment, and the ability to set goals and achieve them.  In every degree, there’s a lot of good old-fashioned education.  That’s what it’s about.

Times-Picayune Employment Section

Sunday, March 17, 2002