Interdisciplinary Studies

The Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies at The University of British Columbia - Vancouver offers students a unique opportunity to craft a personalized academic experience by integrating knowledge from multiple disciplines. Designed for students with diverse interests and career aspirations, this program encourages exploration across various fields of study, fostering critical thinking, adaptability, and innovative problem-solving skills. Students can select courses from a wide range of departments, including arts, sciences, social sciences, and professional programs, allowing them to tailor their degree to their individual passions and goals. The program emphasizes the development of interdisciplinary competency through collaborative projects, research, and practical applications, preparing graduates to succeed in complex, dynamic career environments. With a flexible curriculum and support from academic advisors, students are empowered to design a program that aligns with their personal interests and professional ambitions. The Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies aims to produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable in multiple areas but also capable of integrating different perspectives to address real-world challenges. The program also provides opportunities for experiential learning, such as internships, community engagement, and participation in interdisciplinary research initiatives. Whether students are interested in combining arts and technology, environmental studies and business, or social sciences and health sciences, this program offers the flexibility and resources necessary to achieve a comprehensive and impactful educational experience. Graduates of the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies will be well-equipped to pursue diverse careers in sectors such as education, public policy, business, non-profit organizations, and further academic study. This innovative program reflects UBC’s commitment to fostering versatile thinkers who are prepared to lead and innovate in a rapidly changing world.

Interdisciplinary Studies at The University of British Columbia – Vancouver offers students a unique opportunity to design and pursue a personalized academic pathway that bridges multiple fields of knowledge. This flexible program allows students to tailor their education according to their individual interests, career goals, and academic strengths by combining courses from various disciplines such as arts, sciences, social sciences, and professional studies. The program encourages critical thinking, innovative problem-solving, and the integration of diverse perspectives, preparing graduates to navigate complex issues across different sectors.

Students enrolled in the Interdisciplinary Studies program benefit from a curriculum that emphasizes both breadth and depth of knowledge. They can select courses from a wide range of departments, including humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and applied sciences, enabling them to craft a comprehensive academic experience. The program also provides opportunities for engaging in research projects, internships, and community-based learning, which enhance practical skills and real-world understanding.

The program's structure is designed to support students in developing strong analytical, communication, and collaborative skills. Advisory services are available to help students design their academic plan, ensure coherence among selected courses, and align their studies with future career aspirations. Graduates of Interdisciplinary Studies are well-equipped to pursue careers in various fields such as education, public policy, business, health sciences, non-profit organizations, and beyond, or to continue with graduate studies.

Overall, the Interdisciplinary Studies program at UBC Vancouver embodies an innovative approach to higher education, emphasizing flexibility, exploration, and integration of knowledge. It prepares students not only for specialized careers but also for adaptive, lifelong learning in an ever-changing global landscape.

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies at The University of British Columbia – Vancouver typically include completing a set of core courses, elective courses, and a capstone project. Students are encouraged to design their own personalized program by selecting courses across multiple disciplines, which may encompass arts, sciences, social sciences, and other fields. To ensure comprehensive interdisciplinary expertise, students must fulfill a minimum number of credits in each of the areas they choose to focus on, demonstrating breadth and depth of knowledge. The program usually requires the completion of approximately 120 credits over four years, including foundational courses in research methods and critical thinking. Students often participate in experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, community-based projects, or research activities, to apply their interdisciplinary skills in real-world contexts. The capstone project serves as a culmination of their interdisciplinary studies, requiring students to integrate knowledge from their diverse coursework and address complex problems or topics of their choosing. Furthermore, program requirements specify maintenance of a minimum overall GPA, typically around 2.0 to 2.5, to ensure academic progress. Students must also adhere to university policies regarding ethics, diversity, and inclusion, and may be required to complete certain mandatory courses in areas such as writing, communication, or digital literacy. Transfer credits from other post-secondary institutions can sometimes fulfill certain elective or foundational course requirements, subject to departmental approval. International students are required to meet specific language proficiency standards, such as TOEFL or IELTS scores, in order to qualify for admission into the program. Overall, the Interdisciplinary Studies program at UBC Vancouver emphasizes flexibility and personalization, aiming to develop versatile graduates capable of addressing complex global issues using integrated knowledge and diverse skills.

The University of British Columbia - Vancouver offers a comprehensive financial aid and scholarship program for students enrolled in the Interdisciplinary Studies program. Undergraduate students at UBC have access to a variety of funding opportunities designed to support their academic pursuits and alleviate financial burdens. These include government loans and grants, merit-based scholarships, need-based bursaries, and external funding opportunities. The government of Canada provides federal and provincial student loans, which are available to eligible students based on financial need and academic standing. UBC also administers its own awards and scholarships, such as the X Award for academic excellence and specific faculty-level bursaries.

To be considered for financial aid, students are usually required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP), depending on their province of residence. In addition, UBC encourages students to apply for external scholarships related to their field of study, volunteer activities, or personal backgrounds. Many of these external awards are competitive and require a dedicated application process, including essays and references.

Moreover, the university offers work-study programs that enable students to work part-time on or off-campus in positions related to their interests or field of study. These jobs provide not only financial support but also valuable work experience and professional development opportunities. For students with significant financial need, emergency bursaries are available to help cover unexpected expenses that could impede their academic progress.

International students enrolled in the Interdisciplinary Studies program are also eligible for certain scholarships and financial awards, although their options may be more limited compared to domestic students. They are encouraged to seek external funding sources specific to international students and to explore scholarships offered by their home countries or international organizations.

In conclusion, UBC's financing options are designed to support students throughout their academic journey in the Interdisciplinary Studies program. Prospective and current students are advised to consult the university’s Financial Aid and Awards Office for detailed information on application procedures, deadlines, and eligibility criteria to maximize their chances of securing financial support.

The University of British Columbia offers a highly customizable interdisciplinary studies program designed to provide students with a broad and flexible educational experience. This program allows students to tailor their degree to align with their academic interests, career goals, and personal passions by selecting courses across multiple disciplines. The program emphasizes critical thinking, innovative problem-solving, and integrative learning, preparing graduates to navigate diverse fields and complex challenges. Students typically have the opportunity to work closely with academic advisors to craft a personalized curriculum that may include courses from arts, sciences, business, and other faculties, depending on their chosen focus areas. The interdisciplinary nature of the program promotes a holistic understanding of complex issues by encouraging students to draw connections between different fields of study. This approach supports the development of versatile skill sets, including analytical abilities, communication, teamwork, and research techniques. The program often incorporates experiential learning components, such as internships, community projects, or research opportunities, to give students practical experience in real-world settings. Graduates of the interdisciplinary studies program at UBC are well-equipped for diverse career paths, including roles in consulting, policy development, education, arts, non-profit organizations, and emerging sectors that require integrative thinking and adaptability. The program’s flexible structure and emphasis on personalized education make it ideal for students with broad academic interests or those seeking to combine fields in innovative ways. Overall, the interdisciplinary studies program at UBC Vancouver aims to foster intellectual curiosity, interdisciplinary competence, and professional readiness, enabling students to thrive in a rapidly changing global landscape.