Multidisciplinary Studies Program Overview
The Multidisciplinary Studies (M.D.S.) major at Ashland University requires the completion of all general baccalaureate degree requirements, two cognate areas and MDS 490: Multidisciplinary Studies Capstone Experience. As a comprehensive major, the two cognate areas and the capstone experience must total at least 60 credit hours.
How Do I Know if This Program Is Right for Me?
A Bachelor of Science in Multidisciplinary Studies is an excellent fit for students who possess diverse academic interests and seek a customized educational experience. This degree program allows individuals to tailor their curriculum to align with their specific career goals, combining courses from various disciplines such as business, humanities and social sciences. It is particularly suitable for those who wish to explore interdisciplinary fields, pursue unique career paths or require flexibility due to personal or professional commitments. With its emphasis on versatility and adaptability, a B.S. in Multidisciplinary Studies empowers students to build a well-rounded skill set that is highly valued in today's dynamic job market.
Requirements
The following requirements must be satisfied to successfully complete the M.D.S. program:
- Two cognate areas; each cognate must consist of a minimum of 24 completed credit hours. Of those 24 credit hours, at least 9 credit hours must be 300/400 level courses.
- Students must complete a minimum of 30 semester hours at Ashland University. In addition, the last 12 hours of coursework and at least one-half of the student's work in the two cognate areas, must be completed at AU.
- Upon your request, your academic advisor will coordinate with the relevant department chairs or recommended MDS Liaisons to create two individualized cognate areas based on previously taken coursework and interests/career plans.
- The advisor will initiate the Multidisciplinary Studies Major Proposal Form (including the emails for approvers) and provide the list of tentative coursework for the two cognate areas.
View the Academic Catalog for complete degree requirements.
Dean's Scholarship
The Dean's Scholarship was created to enhance the undergraduate academic experience for new first-time and transfer students enrolled in a major within the College of Arts & Sciences. It is a merit-based, renewable scholarship of $1,500 that can be "stacked" on top of other awarded AU academic scholarships. In addition, students have the opportunity to participate in unique academic communities with a focus on career coaching and preparation.
Admission
Admission to the Multidisciplinary Studies (MDS) major is not automatic. To apply, submit the MDS Major Proposal Form.
The proposal form requires:
- A list of all courses taken to date for each cognate area, as well as any proposed courses yet to be taken for each cognate area.
- The proposal should define a systematic body of knowledge and demonstrate a logical progression within the curriculum. Movement through the major should progress from an introductory to an advanced level.
- Once the program is approved by the two faculty MDS Liaisons and their respective deans, the completed proposal will be forwarded to the Registrar’s Office for verification and inclusion in the student’s permanent file.
- A separate permission form is required for enrollment in MDS 490: Multidisciplinary Capstone Experience. This form must be submitted along with a proposal for the project to be conducted during the capstone: MDS 490: Multidisciplinary Capstone Form.
