Interdisciplinary Studies

The Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies at Thompson Rivers University offers a flexible and personalized educational experience designed to meet the diverse interests and career aspirations of each student. This innovative program allows students to craft a unique academic journey by combining courses from multiple disciplines, fostering a broad-based, integrative approach to learning. Whether you're seeking to develop interdisciplinary expertise for a specific career path, enhance your critical thinking and problem-solving skills, or explore multiple fields of interest, this program provides the opportunity to tailor your education to your goals.

Students in the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies can select from a wide range of courses across various faculties, including arts, sciences, business, and health sciences, among others. This flexible structure enables learners to design a curriculum that aligns with their passions and future plans, whether that involves blending social sciences with environmental studies, integrating business with information technology, or combining arts with health sciences. The program emphasizes critical inquiry, analytical skills, and the ability to synthesize knowledge from different perspectives, preparing graduates to adapt to rapidly changing workplaces and societal needs.

The interdisciplinary framework encourages active engagement, collaboration, and independent study, fostering a dynamic learning environment. Students benefit from the guidance of faculty mentors who support their individual academic journeys and help refine their interests into coherent, achievable educational pathways. The program also provides opportunities for experiential learning, research projects, and community engagement, enhancing practical skills and professional readiness.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies are well-equipped for a variety of career paths, including roles that require flexible thinking, interdisciplinary knowledge, and innovative problem-solving. They are prepared to pursue further education or enter careers in fields such as social services, public policy, environmental management, business development, arts administration, and more. With its emphasis on personalized learning and interdisciplinary understanding, this program at Thompson Rivers University empowers students to become adaptable, insightful, and forward-thinking professionals capable of making meaningful contributions across diverse sectors.

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The Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies at Thompson Rivers University offers students a flexible and innovative educational pathway designed to tailor their academic experience to their unique interests and career goals. This program allows students to create a personalized curriculum by combining courses from multiple disciplines across the university’s diverse faculties. The interdisciplinary nature of the program encourages learners to develop integrated knowledge and critical thinking skills, preparing them for a wide range of professional fields and further academic pursuits.

Throughout the program, students engage in coursework that spans various disciplines such as arts, sciences, business, and technology, among others. They have the opportunity to select courses that align with their passions and career aspirations, whether that involves combining social sciences with environmental studies, business with information technology, or humanities with creative arts. The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging students to participate in internships, community projects, and research activities that enhance practical skills and real-world understanding.

The program is structured to provide a strong foundation in academic disciplines while fostering interdisciplinary thinking and problem-solving abilities. Students are guided by academic advisors to design a personalized study plan that meets their individual goals and adheres to university standards. Throughout their studies, learners will develop competencies in communication, research, analytical thinking, and collaborative problem-solving, equipping them with versatile skills applicable across diverse professional settings.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies will be well-prepared for careers in rapidly evolving industries that value adaptable and multidisciplinary expertise. They may pursue roles in public policy, community development, education, digital media, business management, or further education at the graduate level. The program’s flexible structure supports lifelong learning and continuous professional development, making it an ideal choice for students seeking a customizable and comprehensive undergraduate education at Thompson Rivers University.

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies at Thompson Rivers University include a combination of core courses, electives, and a capstone project. Prospective students must complete a minimum of 120 credits to graduate, which typically spans four years of full-time study. Admission requirements generally include a high school diploma or equivalent, with some programs recommending prior coursework in critical thinking or writing skills. Students are encouraged to work with academic advisors to develop a personalized study plan aligning with their academic and career goals. The core curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary analysis, research methodologies, and effective communication skills, integrating subjects from arts, sciences, business, and social sciences. Elective courses provide flexibility, allowing students to pursue interests in specific disciplines or interdisciplinary themes such as environmental studies, health sciences, or technology. The program also requires the completion of a capstone project in the final year, demonstrating the ability to synthesize knowledge across disciplines and solve complex problems. Hands-on learning opportunities, including internships and research projects, are often integrated into the curriculum, providing practical experience. Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 to remain in good academic standing. International students are required to meet English language proficiency standards, typically through IELTS or TOEFL scores. Transfer credits from recognized post-secondary institutions may be approved, enabling students to accelerate their degree path. Overall, the program aims to cultivate versatile graduates prepared for diverse careers and lifelong learning, emphasizing critical thinking, adaptability, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Interdisciplinary Studies program at Thompson Rivers University offers a variety of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees for this program are established annually and vary depending on the number of courses taken and the student’s residency status. Domestic students generally benefit from lower tuition rates compared to international students, reflecting the university’s commitment to accessible education for Canadian residents. In addition to standard tuition fees, students should account for ancillary costs such as student fees, textbooks, and supplies, which are charged separately. Thompson Rivers University provides comprehensive financial aid opportunities, including government student grants and loans for eligible domestic students. Federal and provincial government aid programs are designed to assist students in covering their educational expenses, with eligibility criteria based on financial need, academic performance, and other factors. The university also offers internal scholarships and bursaries, which are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership, community involvement, and specific program interests. Students are encouraged to explore the TRU Financial Aid & Awards website to identify awards for which they may qualify. Additionally, many students choose part-time employment or work-study programs to help finance their studies. TRU's co-op and internship opportunities not only provide practical experience but also an income source for students during their studies. Private loans and external scholarship opportunities are also available through various organizations, and students should research external funding sources early in their academic planning process. For international students, financing options are more limited, but they may be eligible for certain scholarships, private loans, or support from their home country. The university's financial aid staff provides guidance and counseling to help students identify suitable funding sources and navigate the application processes. Overall, the financing studies for the Interdisciplinary Studies program are designed to be flexible, accessible, and supportive of students’ diverse financial situations, enabling them to focus on their academic and professional growth without undue financial burden.

Interdisciplinary Studies at Thompson Rivers University offers students a flexible and customizable educational experience designed to accommodate diverse academic interests and career goals. This program allows learners to tailor their coursework by combining multiple disciplines, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and a broad understanding of complex issues. Typically aimed at students who wish to pursue a unique academic pathway not covered by traditional degree programs, Interdisciplinary Studies enables the integration of knowledge from different fields such as arts, sciences, business, and social sciences.

The program structure often includes core courses, elective options, and a capstone project, which encourages students to synthesize their learning and apply it to real-world challenges. Students may choose to focus on areas like environmental studies, social justice, technology, or cultural studies, providing a versatile foundation for various careers or further academic pursuits. The flexible nature of the program allows students to work at their own pace, often combining online coursework with traditional classroom learning, making it accessible for working professionals and those with other commitments.

Admission requirements typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, and the program may welcome students with diverse educational backgrounds. There are generally advising services available to help students design their curriculum plan aligned with their personal interests and professional aspirations. Graduates of the Interdisciplinary Studies program at Thompson Rivers University often proceed to careers in community development, non-profit sector, education, administration, or continue their studies at the graduate level. Overall, the program emphasizes a broad-based education, critical analysis, and the development of transferable skills such as communication, research, and problem-solving.