This course is designed to familiarize students with the research methods and scholarly debates in a variety of disciplines. Students gain familiarity with a variety of research methods, read and analyze examples of interdisciplinary research, and develop their own research proposal and program of study. Gateway course for the program.

In this course, students will be taught the major aspects of fundraising for nonprofit institutions. Students will examine the fundamentals of advancement services, gift accounting, grant writing, gift cultivation and solicitation, and methods of mass fundraising. Students will also use the techniques taught in the class to create a sample campaign.

Students work with the instructor to compile and complete a reading list focused on a specific interdisciplinary topic not covered by regular course offerings. Weekly meetings discuss the readings, and a significant research paper is required. May be repeated for credit with a substantially different topic.

Students will work cooperatively with a government agency, non-profit organization, corporation, community group or educational institution to solve a problem, complete a project or begin a new initiative. The internship must meet the organization's needs and fit the student's curricular plan. Written approval by the Program Director and partner required.

Students will conceive, propose and complete a major interdisciplinary research project. The final product may take a variety of forms, including a thesis, internship with significant leadership or research responsibilities, or a major initiative (e.g. leading a grassroots environmental campaign or designating a historic landmark). This semester focuses on conceptualization, writing a final proposal, and initiating research.

Students will conceive, propose and complete a major interdisciplinary research project. The final product may take a variety of forms, including a thesis, internship with significant leadership or research responsibilities, or a major initiative (e.g. leading a grassroots environmental campaign or designating a historic landmark). This semester emphasizes project completion and evaluation.