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IST Mission
Statement
The Department of Interdisciplinary Studies is
committed to offering an individualized, interdisciplinary degree program
for adults which is academically sound and realistically attainable.
It encourages the active participation of students in the design of an
integrated curriculum which meets their personal and professional needs
while assuring them the benefits of a liberal education, and which fosters
individual growth within a context of global complexity and diversity.
The department supports this effort through a strong academic
advising system and introductory seminars in adult education and development
for entering or returning students. Courses are provided by the
University days, evenings and weekends or in media-assisted format to
accommodate the schedules of working adults. Self-directed learning is
the desired outcome of the Interdisciplinary Studies degree, and its
achievement is measured, in part, by an integrative senior research project
required of every graduate.
The Department of Interdisciplinary Studies also endeavors
to inform both the University and larger community of the personal and
social benefits of higher education for adults. In addition, it serves
as an advocate for nontraditional students. Regular assessment of
adult students' needs and interests, as well as an ongoing review of current
research in adult development and education, provides a strong knowledge
base from which to articulate concerns of adult students and to propose
positive changes. |
