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M.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies
Vermillion, South Dakota
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies (MAIS) at USD is characterized by its adaptability, enabling students to choose coursework from a minimum of two academic disciplines to forge an individualized program. This flexibility is ideal for individuals who possess a specific interest that doesn't fit neatly within a single traditional graduate discipline. All accepted students are provisionally admitted and work closely with an advisor to finalize their program learning objectives and plan of study. The program typically requires at least 32 credit hours and offers both a thesis and a portfolio option for completion, catering to different academic and professional aims. It is available for both on-campus and online study, providing accessibility for a wide range of learners, including working professionals.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MAIS program is highly individualized, with students designing their own course of study in consultation with their advisor. While the specific courses chosen will vary, the program mandates foundational elements, including a required course in Research Methods or Statistics (3 credit hours) from an academic discipline selected in consultation with the advisor/director. Additionally, students must complete at least one of the following: MAIS 710 - Ethical Leadership (3 cr), or other approved MAIS coursework that includes applied learning. A minimum of 50% of the coursework must be at the 700-level or above, with no more than 12 credits concentrated within a single academic discipline. This structure ensures a broad, yet rigorous, interdisciplinary experience, allowing students to gain competency in multiple areas such as business, administration, education, or health services administration, as seen in examples of past student selections.
Research Focus: The research focus within the MAIS program at USD is inherently broad and student-driven, as it aligns with the individualized nature of the program. Rather than a singular departmental research agenda, students are encouraged to undertake research or applied learning projects that integrate methodologies and knowledge from their chosen disciplines. The program's requirement for a research methods/statistics course and the option of a thesis or portfolio demonstrate a commitment to rigorous inquiry. The oral examination at the program's completion also assesses the student's ability to demonstrate proficiency in their intended knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as their critical thinking and communication skills in the context of their interdisciplinary study. This allows for diverse research avenues, from analyzing business problems through a sociological lens to exploring leadership challenges with an educational psychology perspective.
Industry Engagement: While the MAIS program does not have a formalized "industry engagement" structure like professional schools, its flexible and customizable nature inherently fosters career applicability across various industries. Students often select coursework that directly aligns with their professional goals or current career trajectory, allowing them to immediately apply learned concepts. The program's emphasis on developing advanced research, analytical, and communication skills is highly valued by employers across different sectors. Graduates may also engage in "supervised field study experiences" such as internships or externships, which provide practical, hands-on experience in relevant industries, further bridging the gap between academic study and professional practice. The MAIS is particularly beneficial for early and mid-career professionals looking to enhance their skills in areas like artificial intelligence management, data science, or climate change resilience by integrating knowledge from various fields.
Global Perspective: The M.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies at USD implicitly embraces a global perspective by encouraging students to develop competencies across multiple disciplines, preparing them to tackle complex challenges that often transcend national borders. The program aims to equip graduates with a broad-based, yet specialized, education to meet the demands of an ever-changing global economy. By allowing students to draw on diverse academic areas, including those with international or cross-cultural components, the program fosters a holistic understanding of global issues. Although specific study abroad options are not prominently detailed for this particular MAIS, the inherent nature of interdisciplinary study—which seeks to synthesize information from various sources and offer new perspectives—prepares students to think critically about and engage with global challenges and diverse viewpoints. The online delivery option also broadens its reach, potentially attracting students with international backgrounds or those interested in global contexts.
Location
Vermillion, South Dakota
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 12800
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $38
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
The University of South Dakota (USD) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically designed to support international students in achieving their academic goals. These scholarships help reduce the financial burden of studying abroad and make quality education at USD more accessible to talented students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: USD awards merit-based scholarships to international students based on their academic achievements, leadership potential, and extracurricular involvement. These scholarships recognize outstanding high school or previous college performance and are renewable for multiple years, provided students maintain satisfactory academic progress.
International Student Academic Scholarships: These scholarships are specifically tailored for international undergraduate students and can cover a significant portion of tuition fees. Eligibility is typically based on a combination of academic excellence and the completion of the admission process by specified deadlines. Many of these scholarships are automatically considered upon application, so no separate application is required.
Graduate Assistantships and Fellowships: For international graduate students, USD provides graduate assistantships and fellowships that offer financial support alongside valuable professional experience. These opportunities often include tuition waivers and a stipend in exchange for research, teaching, or administrative work within the university.
Departmental Scholarships: Certain USD academic departments and colleges offer specialized scholarships for international students pursuing specific fields of study, such as business, health sciences, or fine arts. These scholarships often reward exceptional talent and dedication within those disciplines.
A Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (MAIS) from the University of South Dakota (USD) is a unique and powerful degree that equips graduates with a diverse and adaptable skillset. Unlike traditional single-discipline master's programs, the MAIS allows students to customize their curriculum, blending knowledge and methodologies from two or more academic areas. This inherent flexibility prepares graduates to tackle complex problems from multiple perspectives, making them highly valuable in a job market that increasingly rewards versatile thinkers and problem-solvers.
Project Manager: The ability to synthesize information from various fields, manage diverse teams, and oversee complex projects makes MAIS graduates excellent Project Managers in virtually any industry, from technology to healthcare to non-profits.
Management Consultant: With a broad understanding of business functions and the capacity for critical analysis, graduates can advise organizations on improving efficiency, solving strategic challenges, and navigating cross-functional issues.
Program Coordinator/Administrator: In non-profit organizations, government agencies, or educational institutions, MAIS graduates can coordinate and manage programs that often require an understanding of social, economic, and operational aspects.
Human Resources Specialist/Manager: An interdisciplinary background, especially with coursework in psychology, sociology, or business, prepares graduates to manage employee relations, talent development, and organizational culture, understanding the multifaceted human element in a workplace.
Marketing Specialist/Coordinator: By combining studies in communication, psychology, and business, MAIS graduates can effectively understand consumer behavior and develop integrated marketing strategies, making them ideal for roles in digital marketing, brand management, or public relations.
Data Analyst/Strategist: For those who incorporate quantitative methods and relevant domain knowledge, MAIS graduates can excel in analyzing complex data, drawing insights, and informing strategic decisions in fields like business intelligence, market research, or public policy.
Technical Writer/Content Strategist: The strong research, analytical, and writing skills honed in an interdisciplinary program are highly valuable for creating clear and concise documentation, engaging web content, or strategic communication materials across various industries.
Education Administrator/Curriculum Developer: Graduates interested in education can apply their interdisciplinary perspective to administrative roles in schools or universities, or in developing curricula that integrate different subject matters to create more holistic learning experiences.
Community Development Specialist: By blending studies in sociology, public administration, environmental studies, or urban planning, MAIS graduates can work to address social, economic, and environmental challenges at the community level, fostering sustainable development.
Entrepreneur/Small Business Owner: The ability to draw on diverse knowledge domains – from market analysis and financial planning to organizational leadership and problem-solving – provides a robust foundation for individuals looking to start and manage their own businesses across various sectors.
