Kathleen Collison – Combining Art, Science and Philosophy

“My goal in college is to learn subject matter not in 1 specific field but through a combination of mixed education. Philosophy will be studied to better understand the mental aspects of the world and as contrast to that, the sciences will explore the physical world. Art, however, is my greatest means of expression. With my IDIS major, I will be able to combine and explore all of these passions.”

Stephanie Givans – Combining Psychology, Art

“I would like to combine Psychology with Art in order to focus on my interests in Art Therapy. I would be focusing mainly on Psychology but would also like to strengthen my skills and knowledge in Art. One of my mail goals is to attain a Master's degree in both Psychology and Art which will allow me to pursue a career in Art Therapy."

Telecia Taylor – Combining Psychology, Art, Information Systems

“In Information Systems, I want to focus on the usage of software and management systems. In Art, I want to focus on web design. In Psychology, I want to emphasize on the relationship of psychology in the work environment. The courses from these areas of study will assist me in my career goals to be a computer systems analyst.”

Bill Gibbons – Combining Philosophy, Physics

“A course of study combining the disciplines of Philosophy and Physics may seem incongruous or even contradictory.  However, a PhD is Philosophiae Doctor and, because it has been said that philosophy is the “root [progenitor] of all knowledge”, the connection appears natural.  Arguably, all knowledge is born of curiosity and subsequent search for that knowledge, i.e. philosophy (literally, from the Greek for love of wisdom or love of knowledge).  The findings of historical scientists, Nicolaus Copernicus and Galileo Galilei, both of whose scientific searches indicated our solar-centric system, were expunged by the religious philosophies of the Inquisition. In his descriptions of various philosophical views encountered from theoretical and experimental physicists in the early years of development of superstring theory, even into the early 1980’s, Brian Greene states, “Different philosophies notwithstanding, during the past decade much of the criticism of string theory has subsided.”¹  The point is that rational philosophies, based on critical thinking and lack of bias, are the keys to modern scientific thought, theory, experiment (when possible) and conclusions, i.e., knowledge.  At my age, my chosen profession is fait accompli.  However, critical thought, enhanced by study in both fields, may allow me to contribute, in a very small way, to the efforts of those who are active experts in the fields of superstring theory, quantum mechanics and what has been termed T.O.E., Theory of Everything."

¹ Brian Greene, in The Elegant Universe (New York, NY, Vintage Books: division of Random House, Inc., 1999), p. 213

Rebecca Conway – Combining English, Philosophy, Environmental Issues

“I want to combine PHIL/ENGL/ENVA because I have always had a passion for PHIL and ENGL and nature. I want to help the environment and combine my interests in critical thinking and have the opportunity to work in a field that helps the environment and/or helps others in teaching ENGL skills. I feel this Interdisciplinary Studies degree will allow me to explore all of these passions and provide me with experiences and knowledge to pursue my wide array of interests upon graduation."