College of Arts and Sciences
Morgan,
Room 108.
(785) 231-1010 ext. 1636.

The Major
Return to Catalog Index

Source: 2001-2002 Catalog

The Bachelor of Integrated Studies requirements are based on the assumption that the depth of experience component of a baccalaureate degree may be adequately provided by utilizing a multi-disciplinary approach. In particular, those students who do not plan to seek post baccalaureate education in a specific field still might benefit greatly from a relatively brief exposure to fundamental aspects of selected disciplines relevant to their personal interests, goals, aspirations, or career path, despite never completing the full set of major requirements in a discipline. To meet the depth of experience component of the degree requirements, the student designs and submits for approval an Individualized Study Program (ISP). This ISP is formulated by selecting courses from two (or more) Emphasis Areas, or by selecting courses which are consistent with a specific focus, theme, or unifying conceptual principle, the Thematic Focus.
A five-member Integrated Studies Advisory Committee (ISAC) chaired by the College of Arts & Sciences (CAS) Dean or the Dean's designee is charged with the responsibility of reviewing and approving each BIS Individualized Study Program (ISP). Working with a member of the ISAC, students will develop and present an ISP proposal to the ISAC. The committee will review ISPs submitted before a widely published deadline early in each Fall and Spring semester, and approve or modify ISPs before the pre-enrollment advising period each semester. Generally, an ISP will have to be approved (by majority vote) at least one year (24 credit hours) before expected graduation. In exceptional situations, the ISAC at its discretion may consider appeals to approve an ISP one semester (12 credit hours) before graduation. Students interested in obtaining more information should contact the College of Arts and Sciences Dean's office.