About IDS

Interdisciplinary Studies in Social Science

The undergraduate major in Interdisciplinary Studies in Social Science (IDS) recognizes that many students do not wish to limit their studies to the specialization of a single disciplinary department or professional school. Rather, these students seek a well-rounded, bachelor’s degree program that will provide a broad exposure to several of the social sciences, even as it prepares them to enter the career market or undertake graduate studies.

Students in the Interdisciplinary Studies in Social Science (IDS) will explore current social issues from in-depth, global, interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary perspectives.

The curriculum was designed to create a diverse cohort of students, and to allow them to engage and learn from each other in the classroom and from their community. The students will choose between a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science and complete coursework that will:

  1. Emphasize a) the richness of an interdisciplinary degree in the social sciences, b) the value of developing an interdisciplinary mindset, and c) the array of job and career opportunities.

  2. Allow the student to design an individual research project on a topic of their choosing and, in the process, to develop the vital skills of interdisciplinary research methods in an active and engaged manner.

  3. Expand their acquired research skills and interests to address pressing global studies issues, incorporating topical literature analysis, individual research design, and peer review and presentation in classroom and university forums.

Throughout their studies, IDS students will be exposed to various social science disciplines including, anthropology, criminal justice, economics, geography, history, political science, psychology, sociology, among others. As they choose their topics of interest, the students develop the necessary skills of analytical and critical thinking; integrative inquiry, and effective and assertive communication, that will allow them to excel in the workplace, or applied research and high impact learning experiences for graduate studies.

Common employers or careers include:

  • Community organizations
  • Healthcare and health administration
  • Political or social advocacy
  • Private-public sector partnerships
  • Philanthropy
  • Social justice
  • Social work 

Common graduate school paths include:

  • Cultural studies
  • Global studies
  • Human resources
  • International development
  • Legal studies
  • Psychology
  • Public health
  • Social work

New major information can be found here: MSU RO: Academic Programs:Interdisciplinary Studies in Social Science - Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science

 

Center Director: Dr. Brandy Ellison| belliso1@msu.edu

Associate Center Director: Dr. Eddie Boucher | bouche50@msu.edu

 

Advisors: 

Nicolas Gisholt | Advisor | gisholt@msu.edu

Regan Kania | Advisor | kania@msu.edu

Lauren Muñoz | Advisor | laurenm@msu.edu

Dr. Eddie Boucher | IDS/GLIS Faculty Mentor | bouche50@msu.edu


About IDS