Program Overview
The University of Toledo's online Master of Interdisciplinary Studies (M.I.S.) program empowers students to tailor their graduate studies to their unique interests and career goals. With a flexible curriculum and personalized guidance, students can explore diverse fields and develop specialized knowledge in areas such as environmental studies, public health, or business. The program culminates in a thesis or capstone project, preparing graduates for a wide range of careers in various sectors.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The online Master of Interdisciplinary Studies (M.I.S.) degree at The University of Toledo is a student-centered, individualized graduate program that allows students to design their own plan of study with a UToledo faculty advisor. The program is designed for non-traditional students with bachelor's degrees who seek additional study in the liberal arts. While there are a few required courses covering topics in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and visual and performing arts, students are free to choose most of their classes from the university's diverse list of online graduate-school classes that align with their career interests and goals. Students will also complete a traditional thesis or design their own creative or applied capstone project.
Outline:
The program's curriculum is flexible and tailored to each student's interests and goals. Students work with their faculty advisor to develop a personalized plan of study that meets their individual needs. The program's core curriculum includes coursework in the following areas:
- Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Natural Sciences
- Visual and Performing Arts In addition to the core curriculum, students can choose from a wide range of elective courses offered by the university's various academic departments. These courses can be used to develop a specialization in a particular area of interest. For example, a student could choose to focus on environmental studies, public health, or business. Some students enter the program uncertain about their long-term objectives but are quickly inspired by a particular course or line of inquiry. Few educational paths prepare graduates as holistically as advanced study in interdisciplinary studies.
Assessment:
The program's assessment methods vary depending on the individual student's plan of study. However, all students must complete a thesis or capstone project. The thesis is a traditional research paper that demonstrates the student's ability to conduct independent research and write a scholarly paper. The capstone project is a creative or applied project that demonstrates the student's ability to apply their knowledge and skills to a real-world problem.
Teaching:
The program is delivered entirely online, which provides students with the flexibility to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. The program's faculty are experienced and dedicated to providing students with a high-quality learning experience.
Careers:
The program prepares students for a wide range of careers in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Graduates of the program have gone on to work in fields such as:
- Education
- Business
- Healthcare
- Government
- Nonprofit organizations
