Program overview
Admission Requirements
Intakes

Last updated on 2025-08-20

Program overview

Program overview

The Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (Course-Based Option) at the University of Northern British Columbia is designed for students seeking to explore intellectual development beyond traditional academic boundaries. This program encourages innovative thinking by integrating multiple disciplines, particularly within the Humanities and Social Sciences. Students are guided by faculty from various graduate programs, allowing for a rich and diverse educational experience. The course-based option is tailored for those who prefer a structured approach to their studies while still engaging in interdisciplinary inquiry. This program not only fosters creativity but also prepares students for a variety of research opportunities that transcend conventional academic limits.

Program structure

The Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (Course-Based Option) is structured to provide a comprehensive educational experience over a 24-month period. The program consists of a minimum of 27 credit hours, which includes:

  • IDIS 704-3 Graduate Seminar
  • Elective Courses (21 credit hours)
  • IDIS 797-3 Research Paper

Students are encouraged to select elective courses from at least two different academic disciplines, ensuring a broad and interdisciplinary approach to their studies. The program also allows for the possibility of transferring to a thesis-based option after completing 15 credit hours of coursework, providing flexibility for students who may wish to pursue a more research-intensive path. This course-based program is ideal for those who want to engage deeply with their chosen topics while benefiting from the diverse expertise of faculty across various disciplines.

Featured Experiences

The Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies offers several unique features that enhance the learning experience:

  • Interdisciplinary approach that encourages collaboration across various fields of study.
  • Opportunity to work closely with faculty from different graduate programs, enriching the educational experience.
  • Access to a Graduate Seminar that fosters discussion and exploration of interdisciplinary topics.
  • Flexibility to choose elective courses that align with personal research interests.
  • Potential for a research paper that draws from multiple disciplines, allowing for innovative exploration of topics.

Career Options

Graduates of the Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

  • Policy Analyst: Evaluate and develop policies that address social issues, utilizing interdisciplinary knowledge to inform decision-making.
  • Research Coordinator: Oversee research projects that require collaboration across different fields, ensuring comprehensive data collection and analysis.
  • Community Development Officer: Work with communities to implement programs that address local needs, drawing on insights from various disciplines.
  • Educator: Teach at various educational levels, focusing on interdisciplinary studies and promoting critical thinking among students.
  • Consultant: Provide expert advice to organizations on interdisciplinary approaches to problem-solving and project development.

These roles highlight the versatility of the degree and the value of interdisciplinary skills in today’s job market.

 

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