M.S. in Computer Science
The M.S. in Computer Science at SUNY Poly is a graduate-level program typically complet...
B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies
Utica, New York
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies at SUNY Poly allows students to design their own unique degree program by combining areas of study that align with their intellectual, professional, and personal interests. This customizable approach empowers students to explore a particular theme, theory, concern, or topic from more than one disciplinary perspective. The program is ideal for individuals who recognize that many significant challenges and opportunities in the 21st century are too complex to be addressed by a single discipline, fostering problem-solving skills through a blend of different academic fields.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies is built on a progressive core curriculum and allows students to choose at least two, and often three, concentrations from a broad list of academic areas. While specific course lists will vary based on the chosen concentrations, the program typically includes foundational courses in the humanities, arts, and sciences, emphasizing critical thinking, research, and effective communication. Students work closely with an advisor to select courses that best suit their academic and career goals. This flexibility ensures that the program can lead to a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, or Bachelor of Professional Studies degree, depending on the chosen areas of study.
Research Focus: The B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies at SUNY Poly emphasizes the development of strong research and critical thinking skills. Students are trained to approach complex issues from multiple perspectives, which inherently involves identifying and synthesizing information from diverse sources. While the program itself isn't focused on a single research lab like some STEM fields, its design encourages students to engage in deep inquiry across their chosen disciplines. The curriculum supports the critical evaluation of information, the formulation of well-reasoned conclusions, and effective communication of findings, often culminating in capstone projects that integrate knowledge from their various areas of concentration.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement for Interdisciplinary Studies graduates stems from their highly adaptable and broadly applicable skill set. The program prepares students to be creative problem-solvers and integrative thinkers, qualities highly sought after in a variety of professions. While not tied to a single industry, the ability to connect disparate ideas and approach challenges from multiple angles makes graduates valuable in fields that require innovation, strategic thinking, and cross-functional collaboration. The university's overall commitment to providing practical experiences and career services supports students in finding internships and employment opportunities across diverse sectors.
Global Perspective: The B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies at SUNY Polytechnic Institute inherently incorporates a strong global perspective. The program's core philosophy is to address questions and problems that are most effectively explored by integrating knowledge from different fields, often acknowledging the interconnected, globalized, and technological nature of the world. By studying complex issues from multiple angles, students gain a systematic awareness of global forces and processes, and they are encouraged to consider diverse traditions and cultural expressions. As part of a diverse campus community with students from many nations, and through courses that may touch upon global studies, the program prepares graduates to understand and navigate the complexities of an increasingly interconnected global society.
Location
Utica, New York
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 18720
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $50
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 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 105.
SUNY Polytechnic Institute is supporting international students through a variety of scholarship opportunities designed to recognize academic excellence and reduce financial barriers.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students admitted to SUNY Poly may be eligible for academic merit scholarships awarded based on high school or previous college performance. These scholarships reward strong academic records, leadership qualities, and potential for success in STEM, business, and health sciences fields.
Transfer and Continuing Student Scholarships: SUNY Poly offers scholarships for transfer students and those continuing their studies, recognizing sustained academic achievement and commitment to their programs.
Specialized Scholarships: Certain departments and colleges within SUNY Poly may offer field-specific scholarships for international students excelling in areas such as engineering, computer science, cybersecurity, or nursing. These awards encourage students to advance innovation and research in their chosen disciplines.
A Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Interdisciplinary Studies from SUNY Polytechnic Institute is a unique and empowering degree designed for students who thrive on connecting diverse fields of knowledge.
Project Manager/Coordinator: The ability to understand different departments, communicate across disciplines, and integrate various components of a project makes interdisciplinary studies graduates excellent project managers. They can work in tech, business, non-profits, or government, overseeing projects from conception to completion.
Human Resources Specialist: Understanding human behavior, organizational dynamics, communication, and potentially elements of psychology or sociology from their concentrations, graduates are well-suited for HR roles. They can work in recruitment, employee relations, training, or organizational development.
Marketing Coordinator/Specialist: By combining studies in communication, business, psychology, or even design, interdisciplinary graduates can excel in marketing. They can develop campaigns, analyze market trends, understand consumer behavior, and effectively communicate brand messages.
Public Relations Specialist: A strong foundation in communication, coupled with an understanding of social trends and public perception (from areas like sociology or political science), prepares graduates to manage an organization's public image, handle media relations, and craft compelling narratives.
Non-Profit Administrator/Program Coordinator: Graduates passionate about social impact can apply their broad knowledge to manage programs, coordinate volunteers, develop fundraising strategies, and oversee operations for non-profit organizations addressing various community needs.
Journalist / Content Writer: The research, analytical, and communication skills honed in an interdisciplinary program are perfect for journalism or content creation roles. Graduates can cover a wide range of topics, bringing unique perspectives to news, features, technical documents, or digital content.
Community Development Specialist: With concentrations in areas like sociology, public policy, or urban studies, graduates can work for government agencies or non-profits to address community needs, facilitate social programs, and foster local development initiatives.
Training and Development Specialist: Combining insights from psychology, education, and business, interdisciplinary graduates can design and deliver training programs for employees in corporate or organizational settings, enhancing skills and productivity.
Research Assistant (Social Science/Humanities Focus): For those whose interdisciplinary studies included strong research methodology, positions as research assistants in academic institutions, think tanks, or survey research firms are viable. They can help collect, analyze, and interpret qualitative and quantitative data.
Entrepreneur/Small Business Owner: The flexible nature of the interdisciplinary degree fosters creativity and problem-solving. Graduates are equipped with the diverse knowledge base and adaptability needed to identify market gaps, develop innovative solutions, and manage various aspects of starting and running their own businesses.
