Interdisciplinary studies
Graduate Interdisciplinary Studies at UAF
The UAF Interdisciplinary Studies program provides a pathway for students with well-defined goals and interests to earn an M.A., M.S., or Ph.D. degree that draws on multiple disciplines and does not fit into established university degree programs. The graduate interdisciplinary program is administered by the Graduate School and supported by UAF faculty, colleges, and schools.
What is a Graduate Interdisciplinary Degree?
Interdisciplinary degrees meet the increasing societal needs for research addressing complex problems that involve multiple fields. Interdisciplinary students conduct research in a variety of ways:
- Multidisciplinary: Drawing on multiple disciplines independently.
- Interdisciplinary: Investigating the interactions and intersections between multiple disciplines.
- Transdisciplinary: Engaging external stakeholders outside the university as active research collaborators.
The program leverages university resources by drawing on faculty expertise across disciplines. Students identify faculty and two or more disciplines they wish to combine (e.g., Geosciences and Indigenous Studies, Psychology and Business, Linguistics and Education, or Science and Communication).
Collaborate across campus departments to customize your graduate path.
Designing an Interdisciplinary Program
Prospective students first identify the disciplines they want to combine by reviewing available UAF graduate degree programs. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to contact the Graduate School to discuss their plan prior to reaching out to faculty members.
Next, students contact prospective faculty members to discuss the proposed program of study, evaluate its viability, and confirm if a faculty member can serve as their advisor. Together, the student and advisor identify additional faculty to complete the advisory committee.
Core Program Requirements:
- Must include a graduate advisory committee, a graduate study plan, and a research prospectus.
- Committee and coursework must represent at least two distinct graduate programs.
- Course Limit: No more than half (50%) of course credits may come from a single existing graduate program.
- Ph.D. Applicants: Must hold an earned Master’s degree prior to entry.
Application Process
Once the program structure is designed, the student submits an official admissions application. Applications are reviewed by the Interdisciplinary Council (acting as the admissions committee) and the academic department of the primary advisor. Upon acceptance, the student is housed in the advisor's academic college/school.
Master's Degree Requirements
Minimum of 30 credits (includes 6–12 thesis credits of F699). At least 21 credits must be at the 600-level.
Ph.D. Degree Requirements
Minimum of 36 credits (includes 18–27 thesis credits of F699). Remaining credits are 600-level coursework.
Comprehensive Exams Overview
Master's Students: Required to take a single comprehensive examination, which may be an oral exam combined with the thesis defense.
Ph.D. Students: Required to take both a written and an oral comprehensive examination. The oral exam consists of a formal defense of the Ph.D. research proposal and requires an external examiner appointed by the Graduate School.
Questions About Interdisciplinary Degrees?
Contact the UAF Graduate School for personalized guidance on planning your interdisciplinary research track.