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M.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies

An interdisciplinary degree with two possible emphases.

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About this program

The Master of Science in interdisciplinary studies provides graduate students the opportunity to complete a tailored program of study that integrates knowledge and scholarship from two or more disciplines traditionally associated with a Master of Science. Students seeking graduate study in emerging interdisciplinary fields or cross-disciplinary specialties for which the University of Mississippi does not yet offer a defined degree select two or more concentrations to integrate as they develop mastery.

Thesis and non-thesis option

The thesis option prepares students to conduct research/scholarship needed for research careers and doctoral study. Thesis students conduct original research, completed in entirety during enrollment in the Master of Science in interdisciplinary studies degree, which integrates their two or more selected disciplines. Graduate faculty representing each of the selected disciplines comprises the examination committee for the thesis.

The non-thesis option equips students to apply cross-disciplinary knowledge. Students complete a capstone experience in which they gain applied experience integrating two or more disciplines. Students design a capstone experience, with guidance from a committee of faculty representing each of the selected disciplines, to integrate their unique cross-disciplinary expertise in a non-research setting to address a particular theme or goal directly related to real-world problems/needs.

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    Program Information

    Program Type

    Master's Program

    Area of Study

    General Studies

    School

    Graduate School

    Duration

    2 years

    Degree

    Program Location

    Oxford

    Emphases

    Gender Studies;
    Community Based Research

    Required Credit Hours

    36

    Choose your path

    Students must complete the general academic requirement, to include at least 6 hours of formal classroom lecture courses from at least two different disciplines (the latter distribution requirement must be completed in residence at UM).

    The emphasis in gender studies in the Master of Science in interdisciplinary studies provides graduate students the opportunity to complete a tailored program of study that integrates knowledge and scholarship from gender studies and one or more additional discipline(s) traditionally associated with a Master of Science.

    Students may select a thesis or nonthesis track. The thesis track requires completion of a thesis that reflects original research conducted during their enrollment in the Master of Science in interdisciplinary studies. The nonthesis track requires a capstone project that applies the cross-disciplinary knowledge.

    The Interdisciplinary MA/MS emphasis in Community Based Research will prepare students to work with communities and community-based organizations to support data driven decision-making. The program includes a broad range of technical skills development and theoretical inquiry. Students, as part of their curriculum, will take community-based research courses, and partner with local community organizations to work on real-world initiatives to support local decision-making. Students will find themselves prepared for a variety of positions in local and federal government, research, and non-profit sectors.
    Robert John Doerksen

    We are here to help

    Meet our graduate program coordinator for the general emphasis.

    Robert John Doerksen

    Associate Dean of the Graduate School, Professor of Medicinal Chemistry and Research Professor in the Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences

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