Brookings Main Campus
Online- Rapid City
Create your own major.
When no single major fulfills your goals... The understanding of complex questions requires integrating insights from multiple perspectives, a skill that is the foundation of interdisciplinary studies and highly desired in today's workplace. Interdisciplinary studies isn't just an individualized major tailored to your unique career goals, it is a comprehensive way of thinking and problem solving that requires applying skills and knowledge gained from diverse fields of study. In this program, you can combine elements of traditional academic programs in business, the arts, humanities and sciences, in order to fulfill unique career and educational aspirations. You will work closely with a faculty advisor in order to design a rigorous course of study that achieves your own personal and professional objectives. Current or non-traditional students may also be able to integrate prior coursework into their plans of study. Graduates may pursue widely-ranging careers in management, non-profit work, entrepreneurial roles or a variety of additional options, including graduate school.
Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
- Have unique career goals.
- Want to transcend the traditional approaches and parameters of existing disciplines.
- Seek a broad-based, yet specialized, education.
- Are goal-oriented and creative.
- Are independent-minded and self-motivated.
Career Opportunities
- Entrepreneur/manager
- Small business owner
- Executive/administrator
- Professional writer
- Graduate student
Recent Employers
- Small business owner
- Graduate school
- Washington Pavilion
- Saks Fifth Avenue
Suggested Certificates
- These will vary widely according to one’s chosen areas of interest
Suggested Minors
Clubs and Organizations
- Select based on professional goals and interests
Undecided or still deciding on a major and future career?
If you are uncertain about your major and have questions about career planning, you are not alone. Choosing a major or career can be a very difficult decision. The exploratory studies program may be a good fit if you are unsure of your major and career focus. Entering the university in the exploratory studies program will help you gain confidence and valuable insights on majors and minors available at SDSU and future career choices.
In addition, FOCUS 2 Career, a self-guided assessment, education and career planning program, will help you reflect on your values, interests, personality traits and skills to provide valuable insight as you explore major and career choices. SDSU students may access FOCUS 2 Career by using their student email and password. After completing FOCUS 2 Career, you may find it helpful to discuss your results with a career coach in the Office of Career Development.