The Academy for Interdisciplinary Innovation at University College

Your path forward starts here.

The Academy for Interdisciplinary Innovation at University College is where bold thinkers, creative problem-solvers, and lifelong learners come to design their futures. Whether you're starting college, exploring new directions, or returning to advance your career, we’ll help you build the skills, experiences, and confidence you need to thrive.

Students brainstorming at white board.

Here, learning is more than a classroom.

By blending the strengths of Interdisciplinary Studies, the da Vinci Center for Innovation, the Institute for Transformative Learning and faculty from across VCU's schools and colleges, the Academy creates a dynamic environment where students learn by doing, experimenting, and collaborating across disciplines.

Explore flexible programs that blend disciplines and push boundaries

Academics

Students in classroom

Gain hands-on experience through real-world projects and innovation labs

Transformative Learning

Students doing a design thinking exercise.

Develop career-ready skills through entrepreneurship and design thinking

da Vinci Center

Students in classroom at VCU da Vinci Center.

News & Events

VCU basketball player, IDS grad Joe Bamisile offers a big assist for mental health

His new app, developed in his undergraduate interdisciplinary studies program, is already finding an audience.

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The next generation of entrepreneurs won’t be stuck in the classroom

Virginia Commonwealth University reimagines entrepreneurship training with its Shift Retail Lab, a winner of 2023’s Innovation By Design Awards.

Click to Read the Full Article

Two students in Shift Retail Lab at VCU, holding up the Fast Company 2024 Award Winners Magazine, in which Shift Retail Lab is listed. One students holds the magazine open to the page of winners while the other reads the magazine.

VCU student brings the house down with Tiny Desk-style concert for capstone project
Blending music, event production, and community storytelling, this IDS senior Sam created a live Tiny Desk Concert experience that showcased local talent — and proved that innovation and heart can fit behind any desk.

Group of students by desk after event

Congratulations to this Year's Class of Innovators!

Graduation marks more than the end of a chapter—it celebrates the creativity, grit, and growth of our students. Catch the moments, stories, and smiles in our upcoming photos and highlights.

students gather and talk in the Shift Retail Lab