The Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies
The Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies (B.I.S.) gives students the tools to explore across fields and build a custom degree that meets their needs. In this program, students work closely with dedicated advisors to craft a personalized major that draws from departments across the university.Whether you are starting from scratch or incorporating previously earned credits, there’s a path for you with Interdisciplinary Studies.
150 Graduates Per Year
400 Current Interdisciplinary Studies Majors
Established in 1978 as the Bachelor of General Studies
Start here
Ready to learn more about creating your own customized degree? Join a weekly info session, Wednesdays 10–11 a.m. Sign Up (IDS Info Session Google Form)
Can’t make the online Info Session? Watch this video.
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.
IDS Online
Are you enrolled as an online student? Our Interdisciplinary Studies academics are offered fully online, giving you the flexibility to design a degree that fits your goals.
Advising
Explore flexible programs that blend disciplines and push boundaries with our advising team.
Meet Our Advising Team
Mary-Chris Escobar
Associate Dean of Student Success & Life Design
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
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
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 Academic Advisor
Interdisciplinary Studies
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
Interdisciplinary Studies (students with last names K-Pq)
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
Samantha Weed
Enrollment Coordinator
Interdisciplinary Studies (prospective students)
Fun facts about Sam
Hobby I’m Currently Obsessed With: Planning my wedding
One thing on my bucket list: Owning a house with enough space for lots of dogs
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