Interdisciplinary Studies
Scott Davis, Coordinator (Religion)
Interdisciplinary studies offers two distinct programs: interdisciplinary colloquia and the self-designed interdisciplinary studies major (see below).
The Interdisciplinary Colloquia
The interdisciplinary colloquia, which are one-semester electives, provide an opportunity to explore a variety of topics that do not typically fall within disciplinary boundaries. They are taught on a small-group basis, stressing student-faculty interaction, and are open to all students without prerequisites except as noted. Students should ascertain which courses are available in any given semester.
The Interdisciplinary Studies Major
Note: A grade of not less than C (2.0) is required in each course comprising the major.
10 units of coursework including the senior thesis, noting
The nature of the approved program will determine whether the degree is a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science. The interdisciplinary studies major provides a student the opportunity to propose and pursue, with faculty supervision, a unique program of study.
The specific program of study is developed by the student in consultation with two faculty advisors, cohering to a central student-determined theme, involving two or more departments, culminating in a significant senior thesis. The program must be approved by two faculty advisors, the interdisciplinary studies coordinator, and the dean of the School of Arts and Sciences.
Students are expected to fulfill all prerequisites necessary for courses within the major. Prerequisites do not count toward the major unless otherwise noted.
Courses
IDST
200 The Medical Humanities
Designed for students who are planning to enter the health care field. The course provides an introduction to non-clinical aspects of medical practice that confront health care practitioners. Topics include medical ethics, cross-cultural medicine, the doctor-patient relationship, and death and dying.
Unit(s): 1
IDST
280 Principles of the Natural Sciences
Explores foundational principles of biology, chemistry and physics. Students gain experience using these principles in an applied context, fostering critical thought. Designed for pre-medical students preparing to take the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT). Graded Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 205 and Chemistry 206.
Unit(s): 0
IDST
281 Principles of the Natural Sciences
Explores foundational principles of biology, chemistry and physics. Students gain experience using these principles in an applied context, fostering critical thought. Designed for premedical students preparing to take the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT). Continuation of Interdisciplinary Studies 280. Graded Pass/Fail.
Prerequisite(s): Interdisciplinary Studies 280.
Unit(s): .5
IDST
285 Developing Interdisciplinary Research
Focuses on development of an interdisciplinary research project from inception through writing of grant proposal. Begins with discussion of scientific question being addressed, followed by discussions of broad concepts of a research proposal and, finally, the development and completion of a final proposal. Involves literature search, discussions concerning design and execution of experiments, as well as interpretation of data (both quantitative and qualitative). Experimentation will involve a variety of techniques and approaches; expose students to interdisciplinary nature of modern biomedically related research and how collaboration leads to enhancement of a project; and promote students' ability to think critically, write a proposal and discuss and present their ideas to others in an effective manner. The faculty/research student teams will work to develop a final research proposal for NSF or another suitable funding agency.
Prerequisite(s): Chemistry 141 and Biology 201 or 205.
Unit(s): .5
IDST
299 Selected Topics
One semester elective. Explores a variety of topics that do not typically fall within disciplinary boundaries.
Unit(s): 1
IDST
300 Technologies of Change: Information Resources, Policies and Communities
Focus on understanding, using, and evaluating information technologies for research, communication, manipulation of data, and presentation of ideas and results. Consideration of public policy, ethical and technological issues related to information access, presentation, ownership, and distribution.
Unit(s): 1
IDST
334 Urban Revitalization and Preservation
Using the city of Richmond as a laboratory, a study of importance of preserving old and historic structures, districts and artifacts, and of maintaining integrity and flavor of existing neighborhoods within context of modern urban environment.
Unit(s): 1
IDST
379 Combined Major Project/Portfolio
Working with faculty mentors, students will write a 20-30 page research paper on an interdisciplinary topic. For students in combined majors with French and German, this paper will become part of a portfolio representing significant achievements in the major and emphasizing the interdisciplinary and/or cross-cultural aspects of the major.
Prerequisite(s): Department approval.
Unit(s): .5
IDST
390 Interdisciplinary Studies in the Middle Ages and Renaissance
(See English 308.)
Unit(s): 1
IDST
397 Special Topics
Topics will vary from semester to semester.
Unit(s): 1
IDST
398-399 Senior Thesis
For students in the interdisciplinary studies major.
Unit(s): .5-.5
IDST
388 Individual Internship
No more than 1.5 units of internship in any one department and 3.5 units of internship overall may be counted toward required degree units.
Prerequisite(s): Departmental approval
Unit(s): .25-1
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