Interdisciplinary Studies Online Degree Program
The degree program in Interdisciplinary Studies prepares students for a wide variety of careers and graduate study. The program stresses knowledge and understanding by promoting the virtues of a broad-based general education. The Interdisciplinary Studies program offers students a broadly focused degree that develops competencies in several disciplines, and prepares graduates for the modern workplace. In addition, the wealth of elective credits available in Interdisciplinary Studies affords excellent opportunities for students with prior learning experience.
The program in Interdisciplinary Studies offers the Bachelor of Professional Studies. Although all Interdisciplinary Studies students complete the same core courses, individual degree plans differ significantly. The Bachelor of Professional Studies degree is granted to those students who acquire at least 25 percent (30-59 credits) of liberal arts courses.
Enrollment in Interdisciplinary Studies offers students the opportunity to organize a degree program to suit their individual career and academic goals. The degree program includes four key elements:
- Ellis University’s core curriculum, which includes a broad mix of liberal arts and science courses.
- Three concentrations in any combination.
- An array of general electives from which students can tailor to their career interests.
- A final synthesis course, the Capstone Seminar.
Ellis University’s required core curriculum (42 credits) is designed to provide students with communication skills and knowledge essential to job success as well as the broad perspective of history, science, philosophy and insights into human behavior derived from the study of behavioral science and literature.
In addition to the core courses, each student selects three subject areas of concentration, taking at least 12 credits in each area. An additional 18 elective credits may be taken in one of these areas of concentration, and an additional six elective credits in each of the other two areas. The remaining elective credits are chosen to complement the student’s individual degree plan.
The Interdisciplinary Studies Capstone Seminar rounds out the University experience by involving students in research, analytic and synthetic activities. The Capstone Seminar uses a general topic or current issue to explore a variety of perspectives that multiple disciplines bring to bear on any given substantive subject of interest. The capstone course requires students to demonstrate mastery of the reading, writing, communication and research skills they have learned throughout their coursework at Ellis and/or previous institutions.
The Ellis Interdisciplinary Studies program prepares students for a variety of professional careers that demand breadth of knowledge and excellent problem-solving skills. In the Capstone Seminar, students apply and refine these skills as they exchange ideas with fellow students and their instructors on engaging and timely topics.
Students may select their areas of concentration from the following 14 concentrations:
- Accounting
- Business Law
- Business and the Internet
- Corrections
- Crime Scene Analysis
- Entrepreneurial Management
- Finance
- Fraud Investigation
- Hospitality Management
- Human Resources Management
- International Business
- Marketing
- Paralegal Studies
- Political Science and the Law
Note: Students should work with their academic advisors when selecting the areas of concentration for their program.
Bachelor of Professional Studies - Interdisciplinary Studies - Program Outline
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| CSS 101 |
College Success Seminar |
3 |
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- The cornerstone of the general education program is a three-credit course designed to provide students with the tools necessary for collegiate success. This course provides support to new students as they develop confidence in their academic and social endeavors.
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| WRT 101 |
College Composition I |
3 |
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- Instruction in the application of the principles and skills involved in effective expository writing, with most readings from nonfiction prose. Introduces students to the writing process with special attention to constructing arguments, working with sources, and crafting effective sentences and paragraphs.
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| WRT 151 |
College Composition II |
3 |
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- Further development of the expository and writing and reading skills taught in English. An introduction to literature and the development of library skills leading to a documented research paper. Prerequisite: WRT 101.
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| COM 240 |
Writing for the Mass Media |
3 |
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- This practical introductory course exposes students to the basics of effective writing and the variety of writing challenges posed by the mass media. Simple forms of writing for various media are explored as are elements of good writing such as internal conflict, word economy, objectivity, subjectivity, and the use of nonverbal messages. Prerequisites: WRT 101 and WRT 151.
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| LIT 220 |
The Art of Drama |
3 |
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- An intermediate-level course in which the student explores dramatic literature in an effort to discover its ritual origins, historical role and current significance. Prerequisite: WRT 151.
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| LIT 210 |
The Art of Poetry |
3 |
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- An intermediate-level course in which the student learns the technique of reading, interpreting, and evaluating poetry of increasing difficulty and brilliance. Prerequisite: WRT 151.
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| LIT 230 |
The Art of Fiction |
3 |
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- An intermediate-level course in which selected works of fiction are examined in an effort to understand the approaches, strategies and techniques of artists in this compelling medium. Students will also produce an original, creative piece. Prerequisite: WRT 151.
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| LIT 240 |
The Art of Prose: Scientific and Technical Literature |
3 |
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- An intermediate-level course in which the art of prose writing is explored in depth. This course focuses on stylistics and rhetoric and covers the development of scientific and technical literature. Prerequisite: WRT 151.
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- This course is more an in depth study than an introduction to representative British and American poets of the 20th century. Emphasis is placed on the manner in which modern poetry derives from traditional patterns yet manages to create new forms and messages for our time.
Prerequisite: WRT 151.
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| LIT 340 |
The African-American Writer in American Literature |
3 |
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- Reading and discussion of representative works of African-American writers. Historical and social backgrounds are explored to interpret African-American literature as meaningful as part of the American literary tradition. Prerequisite: WRT 151.
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| LIT 341 |
Twentieth-Century American Literature |
3 |
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- An advanced study of major American literature of the 20th century. Prerequisite: WRT 151.
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| WRT 310 |
Business Writing |
3 |
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- An intermediate-level writing course for students in business. Instruction and practice in all phases of business communications. Prerequisite: WRT 151.
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| WRT 316 |
Writing for the Technical Professions |
3 |
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- An intermediate-level writing course for students of the physical and life sciences and technology. Emphasis on style in technical writing, modes of technical discourse (definition, description, analysis, interpretation) and strategies for effective business communication, including resume writing, technical reports and oral presentations. Methods and procedures of research are explored in depth. Prerequisite: WRT 151.
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| WRT 330 |
Writing for Communication Arts |
3 |
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- An intermediate-level writing course for students in the communication field with emphasis on developing writing fluency. Focus on expository, persuasive writing; in-depth study of research methods; and strategies for effective business communication, including resume writing and oral presentations. Prerequisite: WRT 151.
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| WRT 335 |
Writing for Publication |
3 |
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- An advanced writing course with special emphasis on published work. Students interested in writing and those seriously committed to their own writing improvement and to the writing of prose articles, fiction or poetry are especially encouraged to take this course. Prerequisite: WRT 151.
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| SPH 105 |
Basic Speech Communication |
3 |
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- Study of the fundamentals of verbal communication including public speaking, interpersonal communication and small group interaction. Training in methods of obtaining and organizing materials and ideas for effective verbal communication.
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| COM 101 |
Communication: Principles and Process |
3 |
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- This survey course introduces the nature, principles, elements and mechanism of the communication process. How, why, in what forms, and through what stages communication occurs is explored along with the nature of human perception and the role of verbal and nonverbal language in conveying meaning. Emphasis is placed on providing a working knowledge of the fundamental principles of communication as they apply to the design and delivery of the message via such media as print, radio, television, film and the Internet.
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| HIS 110 |
American History I |
3 |
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- This is a survey course of American history from the colonial period, the Revolution to the establishment of the Republic, the first half of the nineteenth century, up through the period of the Civil War, ending in 1865. The impact of geography on the growth of the Republic is considered. The political, economic and cultural evolution of the American people is examined, providing the student with historical foundations for an informed political awareness of present-day issues.
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| HIS 150 |
American History II |
3 |
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- This is a survey course of American history from the end of the Civil War to the present: the period of the Reconstruction, the industrialization of the United States, the emergence of the country as a great power, U.S. role in the 20th century are considered. The political, economic and cultural evolution of the American people is examined, providing the student with historical foundations for an informed political awareness of present-day issues.
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| HIS 210 |
The Contemporary World |
3 |
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- This is a survey course of 20th century global history: it covers the period of imperialism leading to World War I, the emergence of the USSR as a major power, the transformation of Europe as a result of World War II, the period of the Cold War, the role of the USA in the post-cold war world. Special emphasis is placed on the impact of geography, science and technology on political, economic and cultural development of the world.
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| PHI 220 |
Ethics and Social Philosophy |
3 |
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- An examination of some of the most critical issues of moral and social philosophy. These include subjects such as the linguistic analysis of terms such as “good,” “evil,” “duty,” “right” and others. The basis of different moral systems will be studied and the selections from ethical and social philosophers will be read.
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| PHI 230 |
Technology, Society, and Values |
3 |
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- An examination of models and case studies concerned with the impact of machines on man, of technological systems on social structure, and modes of production on value systems. Special attention is paid to the ethical problems connected with newly emerging technologies.
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| PLS 110 |
American Government and Politics |
3 |
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- This course is an introduction to the processes of the American form of democratic government, the nature and structure of US government, its chief characteristics and functions. Special attention is paid to the intimate relation and mutual impact of government and the people on each other, expanding the students’ awareness of the effects of governmental decision on the American People.
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| CRJ 110 |
Introduction to Criminal Justice |
3 |
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- An introduction to the contemporary American criminal justice system. Discussion of the role of police, courts and prisons. Also examined is the juvenile justice system. General issues considered include: police discretion, due process, and change as an integral element of the
American criminal justice system.
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| CRJ 386 |
Police Psychology |
3 |
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- The focus of the course will be on the personality, character, behavioral changes and social isolation that result from the inherent high levels of stress and trauma associated with police work (from entry level to retirement). Factors such as managerial planning, supervision, specialized assignments, high hazard work, tour changes, work environments, alcoholism, substance abuse, other addictive behavior patterns, suicide, and codependent family issues will be identified and addressed. Prerequisites: CRJ 110, PSY 110.
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| PSY 110 |
Introduction to Psychology |
3 |
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- An introduction to selected concepts, methods, and vocabulary of psychology. Focus of study will be on the individual and the conditions that influence behavior. Topics that will be covered include: growth and development, learning and thinking, emotions and motivations, personality and assessment, maladjustment and mental health, groups and social interaction, and social influence and society.
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| SOC 110 |
Introduction to Sociology |
3 |
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- An analysis of the social and cultural forces that govern human behavior. The principal topics include: social interaction and organization, socialization processes, primary groups and the family (associations, bureaucracy and other social institutions), collective behavior, population and ecology.
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| ECO 105 |
Principles of Economics I |
3 |
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- A study of basic economic concepts emphasizing analysis of the aggregate economy. The fundamental concepts of national income and its determination, economic fluctuations, monetary and fiscal policies, and economic growth are covered.
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| ECO 110 |
Principles of Economics II |
3 |
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- An examination of processes of price determination, output, and resource allocation in perfect and in imperfect competition. Also covers labor economics, international trade and finance, and alternative economic systems. Prerequisite: ECO 105.
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| BIO 101 |
Humanity and the Biological Universe |
3 |
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- This course acquaints students with basic biological, health and environmental issues of the modern world. To achieve intended awareness, students will study basic anatomy, physiology, genetics and microbiology. Special attention will be given to contemporary problems such as AIDS, genetic engineering, cancer, heart disease, and pollution. The student will use basic mathematical, computer and quantitative reasoning skills to present cohesive written summations of learning.
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- An introduction to the principles of nutrition in food management. Includes food customs, patterns and habits, nutrients in foods, applied nutrition, and world nutrition problems and programs.
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| BIO 105 |
Food Microbiology |
3 |
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- A course in basic food microbiology outlining important micro-organisms, food preservation and spoilage, food contamination, enzymes produced by micro-organisms, foods in relation to disease, food sanitation, control and inspection, and microbiological laboratory methods.
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| PHY 115 |
Humanity and the Physical Universe |
3 |
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- A survey course utilizing inquiry-based strategies in the physical sciences for non-science students. This course examines a broad range of topics including: Newtonian mechanics, electricity, magnetism, sound, optics, heat, energy and power, earth science including weather and climate, modern physics and the solar system. The interactions between physical science and technology and their impact on society and the quality of life will be considered.
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| PHY 120 |
Journey Through the Universe |
3 |
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- Introductory and descriptive course in astronomy. Topics include: study of the universe, planetary motion, the solar system; stars and galaxies; quasars, pulsars, and black holes; possibility of extra-terrestrial life.
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| PHY 170 |
General Physics I |
3 |
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- General Physics I is the study of the relationships between matter and energy in the world. In this course, students will examine Newton's laws of motion, particle kinematics and dynamics, vectors, work, energy, and momentum. Students will also conduct experiments in lab assignments to experience the science in action. Prerequisite: MAT 170.
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| MAT 115 |
Introductory Concepts of Mathematics |
3 |
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- This course focuses on selected topics in mathematics for students of the humanities (not students pursuing math-related degrees). Students will engage in problem-solving techniques, including inductive and deductive reasoning, along with estimation to determine reasonableness of answers. Topics include: the history of numeration systems and calculating devices; logic and set theory including statements, truth tables, Venn diagrams and set operations; real number system; geometry dealing with polygons, angles, area, volume and capacity; calculating simple and compound interest, including continuous compounding. Applications to real-life situations are emphasized. Calculators and computers are used whenever they add to the understanding of the concepts. Prerequisite: satisfactory placement exam score or “C” or better in MAT 096 and MAT 100.
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| MAT 125 |
Finite Mathematics |
3 |
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- Review of elementary algebra and selected topics in statistics and probability. Sets, real numbers, graphing, linear and quadratic equations and inequalities, relations and functions, solving systems of linear equations, descriptive statistics, frequency distributions, graphical displays of data, measures of central tendency and dispersion, introduction to probability. Prerequisite: satisfactory placement exam score, MAT 100 or equivalent.
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- College algebra and trigonometry gives students a strong preparation for taking calculus. Topics include functions, their graphs, domain, range, inverse functions, standard algebraic transformations of functions and their corresponding geometric transformations of their graphs, exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometric functions and their applications, addition formulas and double angle formulas. Prerequisite: satisfactory placement exam score.
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| MAT 161 |
Basic Applied Calculus |
3 |
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- An introduction to calculus and its applications. Topics covered in this course include functions, limits, derivatives, tangent lines, the chain rule, maxima and minima, curve sketching, applications, anti-derivatives, fundamental theorem of calculus, integration by simple substitution and finding areas.
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| IDS 410 |
Interdisciplinary Studies Capstone Seminar |
3 |
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- Reading, writing and research activities requiring demonstration of mastery in analytic and communication skills in addressing a problem related to students’ individualized programs of study.
Prerequisite: completion of all concentration courses
