PhD - Doctor of Philosophy in Interdisciplinary Studies

Western Michigan University

In response to emerging interest in studies that cross traditional disciplinary boundaries and increasing national demand for interdisciplinary approaches to research and education, the WMU Graduate College has developed the Interdisciplinary Studies Doctorate. This degree offers flexibility to students with interests outside existing boundaries and established programs by allowing them to combine coursework and research in two or more disciplines/programs from across the university. This is a self-designed program that is developed by the student with input from faculty champions from the chosen disciplines. This option is only for students whose needs cannot be met by one of our existing graduate programs.The Interdisciplinary Studies Doctorate degree makes it possible for graduate students interested in combining disciplines to create a degree program to suit their needs, when no existing graduate program does. The program of study for each student will be designed by the student and the faculty mentors.This degree supports the learner-centered, discovery-driven, and globally engaged missions of WMU by meeting individual student needs, promoting academic collaboration across the university, and producing scholars with a global approach to solving problems.

Western Michigan University