Interdisciplinary Studies
Goals
The Master of Arts-Interdisciplinary Studies degree offers students an opportunity to integrate a variety of methodological perspectives and modes of inquiry under a single degree program and course of study. By combining these approaches, students construct an innovative curriculum that crosses traditional disciplinary boundaries, often to answer a specific question or to address a theme of interest to the individual student. The M.A.-I.S. builds upon Niagara University’s established graduate programs in the College of Education, the College of Business Administration, and the College of Arts and Sciences, as well as the diverse offerings of other departments across the university. Graduates will gain an in-depth understanding of graduate-level research and current trends in interdisciplinary scholarship, as well as preparation for advancement in their chosen career field.
Admission Requirements
Candidates for admission must submit application materials via www.niagara.edu/graduate
- The application, accompanied by a $30 fee (U.S. funds), payable to Niagara University.
- Official transcripts of all previous college and university work, to be sent directly from the registrar of each institution. Minimum undergraduate G.P.A. of 3.0.
- Scores on the GRE aptitude test, to be sent directly to Niagara University from Educational Testing Service.
- Two letters of recommendation, to be sent directly to Niagara University by persons who know your academic qualifications and can assess your ability to perform graduate work.
- A personal statement of no more than 1,500 words that explains why you wish to pursue this master’s degree program and potential areas of study.
- For students whose native language is not English, scores on the TOEFL must be forwarded to Niagara University.
Courses
Cross-listed undergraduate courses may be applied toward the degree requirements, as can relevant independent study courses.
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.