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Interdisciplinary Studies

Build a customized degree pathway that combines your academic interests, strengthens critical thinking and communication skills, and prepares you for careers and graduate study through interdisciplinary learning and faculty mentorship.

Program Overview

Bachelor in Interdisciplinary Studies | Bushnell University | Eugene, Oregon

The Interdisciplinary Studies degree at Bushnell University allows you to design an academic experience that reflects your unique interests and goals. In collaboration with a faculty advisor, you’ll build a focused plan of study drawing from three academic areas, strengthening your ability to analyze information, connect ideas across disciplines, and communicate effectively. Through small, discussion-centered classes with close faculty mentorship, you’ll benefit from professors who integrate disciplinary expertise with applied perspectives, helping you connect theory to practice. This program emphasizes flexibility, practical experience, and intellectual engagement within a supportive learning environment. Graduate prepared for careers and graduate study that value adaptability, analytical thinking, and interdisciplinary insight, ready to approach complex problems with the critical thinking skills employers and graduate programs seek. 


Interdisciplinary studies student holding tablet on crosswalk in the sun

Why Choose Interdisciplinary Studies at Bushnell?

At Bushnell, you’re not just another student, you’re part of a community that sees your potential and helps you shape it. Our Interdisciplinary Studies program gives you the freedom to design your own path while faculty walk alongside you, connecting your interests to real opportunities. In small, discussion-based classes, you’ll explore ideas that matter to you, build skills employers actually want, and discover how your unique combination of passions can make a difference. Rooted in faith and purpose, we’re here to help you figure out who you’re called to be, and equip you to get there. 

3

academic areas, each with 11 credits and 8 upper-division credits 

38

credits required in the Interdisciplinary Studies major

!*!*!+

disciplines available for designing your individualized academic pathway

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Internship Experience

Learning extends beyond the classroom through a required internship that helps students apply their customized academic pathway in professional settings connected to their interests and career goals.

With faculty guidance and mentorship, students pursue internships in areas such as education, business, nonprofit leadership, communication, public service, ministry, and community organizations. These experiences help students strengthen professional skills, build industry connections, and gain practical experience that connects interdisciplinary learning to meaningful career opportunities.

By graduation, students leave with both professional experience and a clearer understanding of how their unique combination of interests and skills can contribute across multiple fields and industries.

Student in a healthcare administration internship dressed professionally standing in front of a NICU display

What You’ll Study

How the Curriculum is Structured

The Interdisciplinary Studies curriculum at Bushnell University is designed to help students build a customized academic pathway that reflects their interests, strengths, and long-term goals. Working closely with a faculty advisor, students combine coursework from three academic areas to create an individualized program of study that develops broad knowledge, adaptable skills, and interdisciplinary perspective.

Coursework varies based on each student’s selected areas of study and may include classes in business, communication, psychology, history, ministry, leadership, social sciences, media, education, and other academic disciplines across the university. Students strengthen their skills in research, writing, communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving while learning how to connect ideas across multiple fields and professional settings.

Experiential learning opportunities such as internships, faculty mentorship, discussion-based classes, and a senior capstone project help students apply interdisciplinary learning in meaningful professional and community contexts before graduation.

Widget (Careers and Skills)

Headshot of a man in a plaid shirt against a grey background
“As an adult learner, flexibility mattered to me. The IDS program gave me the opportunity to build a degree pathway that aligned with my goals while helping me become more marketable and prepare for graduate school.”
Joseph Washburn ‘23
Male student in graduation cap and gown holding their degree with Bushnell University President Dr. Joseph Womack
“The ability to combine multiple interests into one degree, while learning in smaller classes, created the perfect environment for me. Studying sports management, marketing, history, and math gave me diverse experiences that prepared me for future career opportunities.”
Dylan Silva ‘21
Business and law professional in a blue suit and pink tie
“The IDS program helped prepare me for graduate school by allowing me to build a challenging and meaningful course of study tailored to my interests and goals. The support and guidance I received throughout the program made a huge difference in my academic experience.”
Anthony Wurst ‘22

Frequently Asked Questions?

Contact Us

Office of Admissions

Have questions about Bushnell’s Interdisciplinary program? An admissions counselor can walk you through requirements, discuss transfer credits, and help you figure out your next step.

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James Berry
Assistant Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies


View Bio

Our faculty and staff are 100% committed to your learning and invested in your success.
Come learn with us!

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Aerial view of Bushnell University campus with academic buildings, green spaces, and the Eugene hills in the background.

Next Steps

Interested in becoming a part of the Beacon community? We’re here to answer questions and help you see if Bushnell is right for you.