Interdisciplinary Studies

Master of Arts

College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences

MAIntercultural Dialogue, International RelationsCollaboration & TeamworkIntercultural awarenessIn-Person
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Customize your master’s degree

Our interdisciplinary studies master’s degree programs emphasize liberal studies education and enhance your intellectual skills. You’ll design your own program, which will allow you to study multiple academic disciplines, including traditional humanities, social sciences, education, business, Jarvis College of Computing and Digital Media.

We offer the following master’s degree options within the Interdisciplinary Self-Designed Program:

  • Interdisciplinary Studies (MA)
  • Interdisciplinary Studies (MS)​​​

Courses are offered on weekday evenings at the Lincoln Park Campus. The program can be completed in two years.

Which program should I enroll in?

The Interdisciplinary Studies (IDS) program is for you if:

  • you’re interested in combining areas of professional expertise or preparation with the traditional liberal arts.
  • you’re a working professional seeking to augment your current work experience with new skills.
  • you have a specific professional skill set in mind that you’re hoping to gain for your anticipated profession or professional move.
  • you’re seeking a course plan without a required core or thesis.

Interdisciplinary Studies: MA vs. MS

  • If the majority of courses you take for the master’s in interdisciplinary studies are drawn from programs that award the Master of Arts degree, then you will earn the MA.
  • If the majority of courses you take are drawn from programs that award a Master of Science degree, then you will earn the MS.

(If the number is equal, you can choose the MA or the MS)

Your living laboratory

You’ll study and engage with Chicago both in and out of your classroom. Take advantage of research and service-learning opportunities in a vibrant urban environment. And leverage DePaul’s connections with corporations large and small, nonprofit organizations, government agencies and cultural institutions that call Chicago home.

Application Deadlines

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Admission Requirements

Submit an online application, official transcripts and letters of recommendation. MALS applicants will submit an essay. IDS applicants will submit a statement of purpose and proposed list of courses. An interview may also be required.

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Required Courses

You’ll take 48 to 52 quarter hours depending on your concentration and completion option.

IDS MA Requirements

Customize your education with leading faculty

Spend your time learning and working alongside a diverse group of faculty including David Gitomer, PhD, who is an associate professor and director of the interdisciplinary self-designed program. He previously studied with pandits in India and conducted manuscript research throughout South Asia, which has helped him to become a specialist in the religions and literatures of pre-modern South Asia. Dr. Gitomer is one of the many examples of knowledgeable faculty you’ll have the opportunity to learn from at DePaul.

Quote component
Hakki
Hakki (MA ’16)
Security Specialist, Chicago Police Department
Alumni Network
You’ll join a diverse network of 180,000 DePaul University alumni working in Chicago and around the world, giving you opportunities to connect with fellow graduates at companies and organizations like Allstate, Tribune Media, KPMG and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Scholarships & Aid
The Interdisciplinary Self-Designed Programs award a limited number of partial tuition awards for graduate students. Learn more about scholarships and financial aid opportunities available to you.
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Contact Information
For more information about applying, contact The Office of Graduate Admission at 
   (773) 325-7315 or 
   lasgrad@depaul.edu.
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We’ll send you information about the degree, admission requirements and upcoming info sessions. Let’s get started.
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