Directed Interdisciplinary Studies

The Bachelor of Arts in Directed Interdisciplinary Studies at Carleton University offers students a unique opportunity to design a personalized academic program tailored to their individual interests, career goals, and research ambitions. This innovative degree program is ideal for students who have diverse academic interests that do not align with traditional disciplinary boundaries or who wish to integrate knowledge from multiple fields to address complex real-world issues. The program provides a flexible and customizable curriculum, allowing students to work closely with academic advisors to select courses from various departments, ensuring a comprehensive interdisciplinary education. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a broad understanding of multiple disciplines, empowering them to approach problems from multiple perspectives and craft innovative solutions.

The program emphasizes experiential learning, research, and independent study, giving students opportunities to engage in collaborative projects, internships, and community-based research initiatives. Students will enhance their ability to communicate across disciplines, adapt to diverse intellectual environments, and prepare for careers in areas such as public policy, community development, education, research, and other fields where interdisciplinary expertise is valued. The curriculum is designed to foster intellectual curiosity and independence, with a strong focus on integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application.

Graduates of the Directed Interdisciplinary Studies program will leave with a versatile skill set, including effective communication, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities across multiple domains. They will be well-equipped to pursue further studies or enter employment markets that demand flexible, innovative thinkers capable of navigating complex interdisciplinary challenges. With personalized academic planning and dedicated support from faculty, students in this programme will enjoy a dynamic and engaging educational experience that prepares them to make meaningful contributions in a variety of professional and societal contexts.

The Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies at Carleton University offers students a unique and flexible academic experience that allows them to design a personalized educational pathway tailored to their individual interests and career goals. This program is designed for students who wish to combine knowledge and skills from multiple disciplines, fostering a comprehensive understanding of complex topics and preparing them for diverse professional environments.

Throughout the program, students have the opportunity to select courses across various fields, including arts, social sciences, sciences, and professional studies, enabling them to build a multidisciplinary curriculum that reflects their personal academic pursuits. The program encourages critical thinking, innovative problem-solving, and effective communication, equipping graduates with the versatility needed to adapt in a rapidly changing world.

Students in the interdisciplinary studies program engage in rigorous coursework, research projects, and collaborative efforts that span multiple disciplines. They are supported by academic advisors who assist in crafting an individualized study plan that aligns with their academic interests and career ambitions. This personalized approach ensures that each student gains a broad yet deep understanding of their chosen areas of study.

In addition to academic flexibility, the program emphasizes experiential learning through internships, community engagement, and practical projects. These opportunities enable students to apply their interdisciplinary knowledge in real-world settings, developing professional skills and networking connections that facilitate career development.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies program often pursue careers in fields such as government, non-profit organizations, business consulting, journalism, research, and education. The program also provides a strong foundation for those interested in further academic study or professional accreditation.

Overall, the Interdisciplinary Studies program at Carleton University is designed to prepare students for success in a complex and interconnected world by fostering a diverse and adaptable skill set, a broad academic perspective, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Arts in Directed Interdisciplinary Studies at Carleton University include successfully completing a minimum of 120 undergraduate credits. Students must develop a personalized program of study by combining courses from at least two different disciplines to foster interdisciplinary learning and research skills. A critical component of the program is the submission of a comprehensive interdisciplinary project or thesis, demonstrating the integration of knowledge from the selected academic areas. Students are advised to consult with academic advisors to design a coherent and balanced course plan that aligns with their academic and career objectives. The program also requires students to complete core courses in research methodology and academic writing to enhance their scholarly skills. Elective courses should complement the chosen disciplines and contribute to the overarching interdisciplinary theme of the student’s program. The program aims to equip students with analytical, communicative, and critical thinking skills necessary for diverse professional environments. To graduate, students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA as specified by the university policies, typically around 1.7 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Additional requirements may include attendance at seminars, workshops, and interdisciplinary forums to broaden academic exposure. The culmination of the program involves a final assessment, which could be a portfolio, presentation, or oral defense of the interdisciplinary project, depending on the department's specifications. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to participate in relevant internships or community projects to apply interdisciplinary approaches in practical settings. Successful completion of all program requirements enables graduates to pursue careers in various fields or continue their education in graduate programs aligned with their interdisciplinary interests.

The financing options for the Directed Interdisciplinary Studies program at Carleton University are designed to support students throughout their academic journey by offering a variety of funding sources. Students enrolled in this program can access numerous financial aid opportunities, including government bursaries, scholarships, and awards specific to Carleton University. The University provides financial assistance programs such as entrance scholarships for incoming students, which can be merit-based or need-based, aiding students in reducing their overall tuition expenses. Additionally, there are many faculty-specific awards that recognize academic excellence in interdisciplinary studies, encouraging students to pursue diverse fields of knowledge.

Beyond institutional scholarships, students are encouraged to apply for external funding sources, including provincial and federal government grants, which are often available for Canadian residents. The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP), for example, offers loans and grants to eligible students, helping to cover tuition and living costs. International students enrolled in the program may have access to different scholarship programs or financial support from external organizations, but they should carefully review the eligibility criteria.

Work-study programs are also available to help students earn income while studying, and part-time employment opportunities on or near Campus can further assist students in managing their finances. The university also provides financial counseling services to help students create personalized budgets, understand the costs associated with their education, and navigate the application processes for various funding options.

Students are advised to regularly check Carleton University's official Financial Aid and Scholarships webpage for updated information on available funding opportunities, application deadlines, and eligibility requirements. Many students also combine multiple funding sources to fully finance their studies, including personal savings, family support, and financial aid options. Overall, the university strives to make interdisciplinary studies accessible and affordable through its comprehensive array of financial support measures, ensuring students can focus on their academic pursuits without undue financial stress.

Directed Interdisciplinary Studies at Carleton University offers students a unique opportunity to design their own academic pathway by integrating courses from multiple disciplines. This program caters to students with specific interests that do not fit neatly into traditional departmental programs, allowing them to tailor their studies to align with their career goals, research passions, or interdisciplinary interests. The program emphasizes flexibility, critical thinking, and the development of a comprehensive understanding across different fields of knowledge. Students in this program typically collaborate with academic advisors to create a personalized curriculum that combines courses from various departments such as arts, social sciences, and sciences, among others. The curriculum encourages innovative approaches to learning and problem-solving, preparing graduates for diverse professional environments or advanced academic pursuits. Due to its flexible and customizable structure, students can explore a broad range of subjects, fostering interdisciplinary expertise and a holistic educational experience. The program also promotes engagement with faculty from different disciplines, enabling students to gain insights from multiple perspectives. Graduates of the Directed Interdisciplinary Studies program often pursue careers in sectors that value interdisciplinary competence, such as research, policy development, education, arts, culture, and entrepreneurship. The program requires careful planning and active student involvement to successfully complete the interdisciplinary coursework and meet program requirements. Overall, Carleton’s Directed Interdisciplinary Studies provides a distinctive academic journey, equipping students with versatile skills and knowledge that are adaptable to an evolving global landscape.