University Park, Illinois, January 8, 2006 – In order to best meet the needs of its students, the Board of Governors program at Governors State University has become the School of Interdisciplinary Learning.
The Board of Governors Bachelor of Arts degree has been renamed the Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies to better reflect the focus of the program.
Other significant changes include the addition of degree specific classes including introductory and capstone courses, and the development of degree pathways.
Students pursuing this degree combine courses from the university’s other four colleges. In addition the program now features courses that are tailored specifically to interdisciplinary studies. The capstone course, for instance, provides students with a seminal experience to help finalize all that they’ve learned.
“We’ve also introduced pathways as part of our students’ study plans,” said program director Michele McMaster. “The pathways will allow students to find a direction for their degrees that provides a unique undergraduate experience.”
“Students have the distinct opportunity to tailor their courses to their career and personal goals,” said McMaster.
The degree is targeted to non-traditional and returning adult learners who can apply prior college-level learning and life and work experiences toward earning the degree. Students who want credit for life experience prepare a portfolio to document and verify prior learning that is equivalent to knowledge gained in college courses.
“We recognize that an education isn’t always earned in the classroom,” McMaster noted. “The Interdisciplinary Studies degree provides an opportunity for students to seek credit for work experience, service in the military, proficiency exams, and courses completed at other colleges or universities.”
Courses in the program are conveniently scheduled and available in a variety of formats to meet the busy schedules of adult students and working professionals. Many students choose to complete their classes online at times and locations that are most convenient for them.
“This Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies is unique in so many ways and is the answer for students who seek maximum flexibility in scheduling, coursework, and completion options.” said McMaster.
In addition, Governors State University offers the lowest public university tuition in Illinois, while maintaining high academic proficiency. The program is fully accredited and meets the same high standards as the university’s other degrees. Minors in 18 different disciplines are also available.
The Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies is one of 47 degree programs offered by Governors State University.
For information on the Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies, contact the School of Interdisciplinary Learning at (708) 534-4092 or
sidl@govst.edu.
