The Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies
The Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies (B.I.S.) is more than a degree, it's a custom-built education shaped by your goals, your experience, and your vision for the future. Rooted in creativity, collaboration, and curiosity, the B.I.S. empowers students to design a path that reflects who they are and where they want to go.
In this program, students work closely with dedicated advisors to craft a personalized degree plan that draws from departments across the university, blending previously earned credits with new and engaging learning opportunities. Whether you are passionate about technology, design, social change, business, health, or the arts, the B.I.S. gives you the tools to explore across fields and shape a degree that meets your needs. You will graduate not just with a degree, but with a story that is entirely your own and a plan to turn it into action.
150 Graduates Per Year
400 Current Interdisciplinary Studies Majors
Established in 1978 as the Bachelor of General Studies
Pathways
Many of our students choose to design an individualized program for themselves through several curricular pathways.
Declare
After joining the program, students will follow their approved, finalized, individualized curriculum plan, which will be reflected in their Degree Works page.
Advising
Explore flexible programs that blend disciplines and push boundaries with our advising team.
Meet Our Advising Team
Mary-Chris Escobar
Director of Student Success & Life Design
University College
escobarmc@vcu.edu
Fun Facts about Mary-Chris:
Hobby I’m currently obsessed with:
Baking sourdough bread, bagels and cinnamon rolls
I know way too much about: Squirrels
Christina Davis
Academic Advisor
Interdisciplinary Studies
University College
Fun Facts about Christina:
Hobby I’m currently obsessed with: Spinning and reading
One thing on my bucket list: To travel internationally
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Audrina Farrar
Academic Advisor
Interdisciplinary Studies
University College
Fun Facts about Audrina:
Hobby I'm currently obsessed with: Legos
One thing on my bucket list: Exploring vineyards and making pasta in Italy (can't do one without the other!)
Richard Quarshie
Senior Advisor
Interdisciplinary Studies
University College
Fun Facts about Richard:
Hobby I’m currently obsessed with: Building and maintaining aquariums
One thing on my bucket list: Ziplining across Niagara Falls
Gaby Figuero
Academic Advisor
University College
Fun Facts About Gaby:
Hobby I’m currently obsessed with: Going to the gym
One thing on my bucket list: To visit at least two countries from each continent
