IDST - Interdisciplinary Studies

Introduction to the major aims, methods, and subject matter in folklore. Survey of major areas and genres, including verbal folklore, material culture, and customs.

A thematic course addressing contemporary global concerns from diverse perspectives. Course themes will vary.

A thematic exploration of classical and modern theories of ethics along with current ethical issues confronting a diverse and comprehensive array of social institutions. Course themes will vary.

A thematic examination of the historical background of communication, both written and oral, from its Greek origins to modern civic discourse. Course themes will vary.

Prerequisite: ENGL 1102. A thematic study of world art, music, drama and literature. Course themes will vary.

A thematic survey of the personalities, aesthetic goals, style traits, techniques, and landmark achievements in the various art media. Course themes will vary.

A comparative examination of various genres (literature, art, music, etc.) from various disciplinary perspectives (history, sociology, art, literary studies, philosophy, etc.) of under-represented groups in America. Specific focus and themes may vary.

Prerequisite: 30 hours of course credit. A thematic exploration of the physical, chemical, and biological laws of nature as they relate to societal issues.

Lab course for 2405. Must be taken concurrently. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

Prerequisite: 30 hours of course credit. An exploration of the contributions of the various sciences regarding questions about our existence, with an emphasis on the scientific method. 2410L must be taken concurrently.

Lab course for 2410. Must be taken concurrently.

A study of classical and contemporary metaphors in art, science, literature, film and music as they relate to mind/brain, emotion/passion, and interacting/behaving.

Prerequisite: Admission to the honors program and approval of honors coordinator. Thematic and interdisciplinary study of topics of special interest.

The Liberal Studies Seminar is a course required for students entering the Liberal Studies degree program. It is designed to introduce the student to the goals and methods of interdisciplinary learning and research through examination and critical analysis of current topics. Students will acquire an appreciation for interdisciplinary approaches to important current issues, and demonstrate their ability to incorporate liberal studies approaches into research, writing, speaking, and graphic presentation. Students must successfully complete this course during their first term in the Liberal Studies program. The course may be repeated one time to satisfy the IDST elective requirement.

Prerequisite: Approval of the director. Advanced study of thematic and interdisciplinary topics of special interest.

Senior Capstone. This course introduces advanced topics in interdisciplinary research and prepares the student for IDST 4931- Senior Project. The two courses are typically completed in a two-semester progression during the student's graduating year. In this course, the student will acquire the skills of interdisciplinary research, assemble a student portfolio, complete a significant service learning experience, and produce a research proposal for an interdisciplinary independent study that serves as the Senior Project. An independent study or other substantial effort may be applied in the place of the Senior Capstone with the written permission of the Coordinator.

Prerequisite: IDST 4930 or permission of the instructor. Senior Project. In his/her final semester, the student must complete an interdisciplinary project that integrates the various areas of study into a meaningful academic work, such as a research paper, thesis, gallery show, or performance.

Prerequisite: Approval of director. Independent reading and reports arranged by the instructor according to the individual student's preparation, background, and needs.

Prerequisite: Approval of the director. Advanced study of thematic and interdisciplinary topics of special interest.