Overview
The Multidisciplinary Studies major (MDS) allows capable students to customize their degree plans to suit their specific needs and interests. This program embodies the interdisciplinary, liberal arts ideals of USAO by encouraging select students to explore a wider breadth of curricular possibilities, combine areas of knowledge in unique and interesting ways, thus promoting cross disciplinary connections between students and faculty alike.
Multidisciplinary Studies coursework and electives are determined by the student and principal advisor. MDS coursework may be distributed among a variety of disciplines or may fall into two or more concentrations. Electives may be necessary to satisfy prerequisites for coursework in some disciplines. Fifty percent of the MDS coursework must be upper level courses.
Each program of study is individualized for MDS students. Faculty advisors will record degree progress using customized MDS check-sheets.
The IDS core is not required of transfer students with an associate degree, though some courses may be recommended. All MDS majors must enroll for Senior Seminar and complete a multidisciplinary Senior Seminar paper or project.
Entrance and program requirements for the MDS program are as follows:
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Applicants must have completed 15 hours of college coursework and have a minimum GPA of 2.50.
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Current USAO students must apply for the MDS major before completing 60 hours of coursework.
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Transfer students must apply for the MDS major before completing 15 hours at USAO.
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Students accepted into the MDS major must maintain a GPA of 2.50 to continue in the program.
The application process for the MDS program includes:
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Drafting a proposed degree plan identifying selected areas of concentration and coursework.
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The degree plan should include proposed program outcomes, including if relevant employment and/or professional goals.
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The degree plan should be developed with the advice of appropriate USAO faculty members.
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Examination of application materials by the Deans Council.
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Once approved, the student will be assigned a principal advisor from among the faculty consulted in preparing the proposed degree plan.