About Interdisciplinary Studies
Interdisciplinary Studies at UMBC
provides students the opportunity to complete a
Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree
by designing their own unique course of study
according to their specific educational and
career goals.
Individually designed majors are ideal for
students who wish to be engaged in a
collaborative academic environment and to work
closely with faculty and staff. Degree proposals
must be developed with faculty guidance,
facilitated and supported by the Interdisciplinary
Studies advisors and approved by the
Interdisciplinary Studies Committee.
The completion of the proposed major must be
possible through educational experiences at
UMBC, although a reasonable number of
approved courses at other institutions may be included if necessary to the academic integrity of the proposal. Independent study, internships, research, study abroad, and creative work are encouraged and may be included. Listed below are sample INDS concentrations.

Astrobiology
Biomedical Ethics
Dance and Child Psychology
Educational Policy
Engineering Education
Entrepreneurship
Forensic Science
Integrative Health Studies
International and Global Studies
Medical Illustration
Neuroscience
Performance Art and Creative Writing
Public Health in Urban Communities
Social Justice and Sustainable Development
Spatial Aspects of Emergency and Disaster Response
World Health and Public Policy

UMBC has offered students the opportunity to create their own individualized major since 1969. With over 175 majors drawing on a variety of disciplines, Interdisciplinary Studies connects with all areas of academic life at UMBC.

2007 INDS graduate Truc Nguyen celebrates her awards for Best Capstone Project and Departmental Honors with INDS Director Patricia La Noue