Frequently Asked Questions

How many semester hours do I have to take from each program area?

The course plan must include a minimum of 12 semester hours and a maximum of 18 semester hours from the primary program and a minimum of 9 semester hours and a maximum of 12 semester hours from the secondary program. The 12 to 18 semester hours from the primary program is best fulfilled by requiring that MAIS students be steered towards an existing graduate certificate in their primary program.
How many semester hours in total must I complete in the MAIS program?

The MAIS degree must include a minimum of 36 semester hours of graduate level work. Prerequisite courses may be negotiated within the proposed course of study. Such courses do not count toward the 36 semester hour degree requirements.
How is the course plan developed?

The proposal for individualized study must come through the MAIS program director. Admission in the program is contingent on a MAIS course plan schedule being developed by the student and the MAIS program director. The MAIS course plan schedule must then be approved and signed by each member of the MAIS admissions committee.
Can I transfer credits?

Students may request to transfer credits from other regionally accredited colleges or universities based on the credit transfer policy of their primary graduate program. A transfer of credit request form must be completed. Requests for transfer credit should be directed to the MAIS program director and will be considered on a course by course basis.
Is there a capstone or thesis project with this master's degree?

The degree must include some capstone or thesis project. Such a project can satisfy up to 6 hours of the degree. Options for fulfilling the capstone requirement include completing a practicum, designating a specific project in a course as a capstone, or writing a supervised thesis. The capstone requirement should be specified in the initial course plan, and should take place within the student’s primary program.
How is tuition calculated?

Tuition will be the charge per course of the program in which the course is taken. Please review our Cost and Tuition page for more information.
What Degree will be listed on my transcript?

The name of the degree listed on the transcript will be Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies. In addition, students will choose one or two areas of specialization from the graduate programs of study.