Integrated Studies B.A.

The Integrated Studies Major offers highly motivated, self-directed students the opportunity to develop an individualized, interdisciplinary course of study. Unlike other undergraduate programs, ISSM students must convincingly demonstrate that the knowledge, skills, and abilities they need for their academic and career goals can only be achieved by combining learning outcomes, courses, and other learning experiences offered by two or more CSUMB academic units. ISSM students must also demonstrate their preparation, skills, and abilities to successfully undertake creative, self-directed, interdisciplinary study. ISSM students will work with the ISSM Coordinator and at least two other faculty disciplinary advisors to create a major proposal that synthesizes multiple fields. Once a field of study has been confirmed, students carry out a learning plan that adapts their education to their unique academic and future career goals.

If interested in this major, students should first consult with the ISSM Coordinator to discuss their preparation as well as their academic, career, and learning objectives. If it is agreed that CSUMB has the academic resources needed, the Coordinator will approve the student's enrollment in the ISSM Major ProSeminar. Entry to the Proseminar is by Permission Code.

To learn more about the major, visit the Human Communication website.

required courses

In order to graduate, you will also need to complete your general education and university requirements.

Core

Complete all of the following courses:

• ISSM 300: Major ProSeminar
• ISSM 301: Research Seminar
• ISSM 399: Senior Seminar
• ISSM 400: Senior Capstone

depth study

Choose 32 units defined by the Individual Learning Plan and approved by the ISSM Coordinator and Depth Study advisors in at least two chosen fields.

In addition to the required ISSM 301: Research Seminar, students may elect to take a disciplinary methods course as part of their 32 units of Depth Study. Selection is made in consultation with depth advisor. Options include but are not limited to:

• CHHS 385: Applied Statistics/Research Methods
• SBS 362: Rsrch Mthd for SBS: Qual Emph AND SBS 362L: Rsrch Mthd SBS: Qual Emph Lab
• SBS 366: Research Methods for SBS: Quantitative Emphasis AND SBS 366L: Research Methods for SBS: Quantitative Emphasis Lab
• GS 316: Approaches/ Global Histories
• ENVS 350: Quantitative Field Methods
• other Research Methods course approved by ISSM Coordinator

learning outcomes

MLO 1. Interdisciplinary Theory and Practice 

The ability to effectively work within and across disciplinary boundaries; the ability to design and articulate a coherently integrated inquiry that draws from and applies chosen inter/disciplinary theories and methods.

MLO 2. Research Methods 

The ability to independently and effectively conduct, produce, and present advanced-level academic research that integrates chosen disciplinary fields in a compelling project.

MLO 3. Integration:  Curriculum map and Capstone

The ability to articulate connections among various disciplines and fields and apply skills, abilities, and approaches from at least two specific disciplines or fields to analyze complex problems.

course pathways

Freshman Pathway

fall freshman

spring freshman

Fall sophomore

Spring Sophomore

fall junior

spring junior

Fall Senior

spring senior

transfer pathway

fall junior

spring junior

fall senior

spring senior

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