DEGREE PROGRAM

The College of Lifelong Learning awards the Bachelor of Science in Professional Interdisciplinary Studies. The degree program is housed in the School of General and Continuing Education. This program is directed by the Dean of the College who is assisted by the Director of Special Academic Credit Programs. The School draws upon faculty from the University and adjunct faculty from various government, community and educational agencies for the delivery of instruction.
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 Program Description

The Bachelor of Science in Professional Interdisciplinary Studies is an interdisciplinary program for the mature adult who seeks a nontraditional method of obtaining a bachelor’s degree. This 122 - 124-semester hour, cohort based degree program provides two study options: (1) General Interdisciplinary Studies and (2) Professional Interdisciplinary Studies with emphasis in one of two (2) professional concentrations (Commercial Recreation and Resorts and Faith-Based Leadership).
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Program Objectives

The educational objectives of the Bachelor of Science in Professional Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Program are to provide adult students the opportunity to:

1.       Achieve personal and professional objectives of earning a university degree.

2.       Expand their knowledge and understanding of the relationships among the areas of humanities and fine arts, natural sciences, social and behavioral science.

3.       Develop the ability to read, interpret and evaluate the work of scholars in their chosen career field.

4.       Design and apply research skills in the study of career related problems.

5.       Manage at a comfortable level family and work responsibilities while successfully pursuing college studies.

6.       Communicate effectively and reason critically when confronted with issues.

7.       Meet all requirements for the baccalaureate degree including the demonstration of skill proficiency in disciplined academic inquiry.
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 Student Outcomes

Students will:

1.       Demonstrate that they understand the importance of diversity and are prepared to participate in a diverse workplace.

2.       Take and pass the English Proficiency Exam and satisfy all other graduation requirements of the College and the University.

3.       Be prepared to communicate effectively and reason critically when confronted with issues.

4.       Demonstrate preparedness for professional requirements of the workplace as evidenced through study and internship experiences.

5.       Be able to utilize appropriate skills in solving emerging career related problems.

6.       Demonstrate the ability to read, interpret and evaluate the work of scholars in their chosen field.

7.       Demonstrate the ability to design, plan and complete a comprehensive, individually paced plan of work that is coherent, focused and consistent with the student’s career goal(s).

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Program Options

In the Bachelor of Science in Professional Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Program, participants may choose from one of two program options:

Option 1: General Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Interdisciplinary Studies

● General Interdisciplinary Studies

This option prepares students to engage in a broad spectrum of employment opportunities including work in business, government, education, human services, industry, entry level international relations and social and economic affairs. Additionally, the program is flexible enough for students to customize studies for emerging positions and organizations in today’s society.

 

Option 2: Professional Interdisciplinary Studies with emphasis in one of two professional concentrations

● Commercial Recreation and Resorts

This specialization prepares students for entry-level administration, human relations and leadership positions at casinos, convention centers, cruise ships, resorts, hotels, electronic game rooms and facilities, air travel and other commercial gaming environments. Students will learn skills in events planning, program development and management, conflict resolution, promotions and fiscal practices.

 

● Faith-Based Leadership

This specialization prepares students for faith-based leadership and administration, fiscal management, public relations and economic and community development for a variety of faith-based entities (i.e., churches and non-profit organizations). Students will also develop skills in grantsmanship, fiscal management, presentation and communication, and program development.
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 INTERNSHIP OR SPECIAL FIELD RESEARCH PROJECTS

Students are required to participate in an internship or field based research program. These supervised activities will be a valuable work-learn experience in a professional environment outside of the classroom where students can explore career areas, gain practical skills and make industry contacts.
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CURRICULUM REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor of Science in Professional Interdisciplinary Studies

General Education Requirements-----------------------------------  48 hrs

Professional Core-----------------------------------------------------------14 hrs

Interdisciplinary Concentration------------------------------------------27 hrs

Professional Concentration                                             27 hrs

Internship and Research Project                                     6-8 hrs

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TOTAL =                                                                122-124 hrs

 

 

FINANCIAL AID

Financial assistance is available to eligible students who are admitted to Jackson State University through the College of Lifelong Learning. In addition to financial assistance and scholarship programs offered by the University and the Mississippi Legislature, the College of Lifelong Learning makes financial resources available to students who apply according to program guidelines. Qualified nontraditional high school graduates (17 to 24 years of age) and undergraduate adults (25 years of age or older), may receive support in the forms of work aid, tuition assistance, and/or book vouchers. All awards are based on the availability of funds. Prior to the awarding of financial assistance, students must show evidence of admission to Jackson State University for academic credit course work and meet the State of Mississippi’s residency requirements as set forth by Jackson State University. In addition, students must meet all requirements outlined by the College of Lifelong Learning. 
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 For more information, call the College of Lifelong Learning:

(601) 432-6234