Earn credit while making a real impact in the community
Who We Serve
Interdisciplinary Studies and Innovation exists to support and empower learners of all kinds. We serve every student at VCU, regardless of major or academic home. Our academic programs, Transformative Learning programs and Life Design initiatives are open to all.
We offer degree programs, a range of undergraduate and graduate courses, minors, microcredentials, and certificates and focused on interdisciplinary innovation. Students from other VCU schools/colleges can add these offerings to their current plans of study, or they can choose to major in one of our own.
Our Programs
Because learning isn’t one-size-fits-all, we offer flexible, stackable opportunities designed to support every kind of learner. Whether you're just starting out, changing direction or leveling up.
Customized major to meet your career goals
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Develop career-ready skills through entrepreneurship and design thinking
Empowered personal exploration for students
Explore opportunities for hands-on discovery
Apply classroom learning through internships, research, and community-based experiences
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We're Here to Help
Backed by dedicated advisors and mentors, you’ll be supported at every step as you chart a path that reflects your passions, expands your perspective, and prepares you to thrive in a complex, ever-changing world.
Gain academic support, course planning and degree path guidance.
Prospective, new and transfer students
Help Shape Interdisciplinary Studies and Innovation
Your voice matters. Share your thoughts and help us build our future.
News and 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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Interdisciplinary studies: Understanding the environment through creative expression
How do art and science intersect? Aaron Bobb found his path at VCU by combining environmental studies with craft and material studies, using creative expression to better understand the natural world. An artist and aspiring scientist, Bobb recently graduated with a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies.
View Bobb’s Senior Capstone sweat bee model progression.
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.
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.
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.
