Description
The issues and problems facing societies in the 21st century are increasingly complex, global, and interrelated and require the ability to envision and think from multiple perspectives, draw upon knowledge from different fields, work with experts across disciplines, and integrate knowledge and ideas to develop solutions that are responsive to the needs and goals of diverse populations. The Minor in Interdisciplinary Inquiry and Problem Solving prepares students to address these types of complex problems by introducing and immersing students in the practices of interdisciplinary inquiry, integrative thinking, and creative problem solving. This minor complements any field of study whose graduates expect to navigate complex issues and situations, including the fields of business, design, engineering, health and human services, science, and other areas where the ability to be flexible, adaptable, critical, and integrative thinkers is important.
Requirements for earning the Minor in Interdisciplinary Inquiry and Problem Solving
A minimum of 18 credits with a minimum of 8 credits taken at the 300/400 level, distributed as follows:
A. Required courses (8 credits)
- IDS 201: Perspectives on Knowledge
- IDS 220: Creativity and Culture
B. Restricted electives: two courses from the following options (8 credits):
- IDS 320: Perspectives on Problem Solving
- IDS 321: Wicked Problems: Interdisciplinary Approaches to 21st Century Challenges
- IDS 410: Research and Critical Methods
C. Electives (2-4 credits)
- Two or more credits in a course that has a demonstrable and substantial interdisciplinary or multidisciplinary component. Student are especially encouraged to integrate the minor with coursework in their major. Non-IDS courses used to satisfy the requirements of the Minor in Interdisciplinary Thinking and Problem Solving must be approved by the IDS program.