About Interdisciplinary Studies

Welcome from the Director

Welcome to the Interdisciplinary Studies Program at the University of Mississippi!

Many like to think of Interdisciplinary Studies as a “build-your-own” major for students who feel that no single major is the right fit for their personal career goals. While this program does allow you to craft an individualized major, it is more than that. At the core of Interdisciplinary Studies is a philosophy of integration and collaboration.

We believe that some questions, some problems are too complex to be adequately addressed by a single methodology or disciplinary perspective. We also believe that some students have interests that are either too broad or too narrow for one major. Students in this program will

• develop a nuanced understanding and respect for multiple disciplines
• collaborate with faculty and peers across disciplines
• learn to appreciate the interdependence of disciplinary knowledge
• draw on the expertise and methodologies of two or more disciplines
• integrate their insights and experiences to develop a personal expertise

As a student in the Interdisciplinary Studies Program, you have the unique opportunity to develop a 42-credit hour plan of study that speaks to your interests, integrating two or more disciplinary concentrations across all the majors offered here at the University of Mississippi.

I will be there by your side throughout your time in the program, helping you to develop your personalized plan of study, acting as a sounding board for your ideas, teaching you in our introductory and capstone courses, and serving as your major advisor.

I encourage you to explore our website and make use of the resources here. If you feel like Interdisciplinary Studies might be a good fit for you, fill out our quick information form to get the ball rolling. As the Director of the Interdisciplinary Studies Program, I am eager to work with you and happy to answer any questions you might have. Feel free to schedule an appointment anytime.

On behalf of the entire College of Liberal Arts and our wonderful faculty and staff, welcome to Interdisciplinary Studies! We look forward to getting to know you and being a part of your journey here at the University of Mississippi.

Warmest Regards,

Dr. Andrew Pfrenger
Director of Interdisciplinary Studies
interdisciplinary@olemiss.edu
(662) 915-1518