Interdisciplinary Studies University of Northern British Columbia

Overview

The Interdisciplinary Studies programme at the University of Northern British Columbia provides a unique academic framework for students to transcend traditional disciplinary boundaries. This postgraduate offering is designed for those whose research interests span multiple fields within the humanities, social sciences, or physical and life sciences.

The University of Northern British Columbia fosters an environment where innovative thinking and creativity are unleashed by removing the constraints of established disciplines. Students benefit from the expertise of faculty members across various graduate departments, ensuring a rich and diverse supervisory network for their specific research projects.

The M.A.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 2651 per semester
• National fee: CAD 1894 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Why Interdisciplinary Studies at the University of Northern British Columbia?

The institution provides a distinctive teaching feature by allowing students to tailor their course of study directly to their research interests. By diminishing the boundaries between disciplines, the university supports advances in knowledge that might not be possible within a single traditional department.

The programme is overseen by the Faculty of Indigenous Studies, Social Sciences, and Humanities, offering a robust support system for interdisciplinary inquiry. Students have the opportunity to work with any eligible faculty member at the university, providing access to a wide range of facilities and specialist expertise across the campus.

A unique aspect of the M.A. track is the Specialisation in Métis and Canadien Studies. This allows for a detailed analysis of the social and cultural history of British Columbia, combining expertise from several disciplines to understand contemporary and historical communities in a continental context.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to provide a balance between core academic training and elective exploration. Modules may include:

• Graduate Seminar
• Research Paper
• M.A. Thesis
• M.Sc. Thesis

Elective courses must be selected across two or more academic disciplines offered at the university. Students are encouraged to consult with their supervisors to choose modules that best support their interdisciplinary research goals. The specific selection of electives ensures that no more than a certain number of credits are taken from a single programme.

Careers with Interdisciplinary Studies

Graduates are prepared for diverse professional roles that require the ability to synthesise information from different sectors. The programme develops high-level research, analytical, and communication skills that are highly valued in policy development, social services, and scientific research industries.

By focusing on complex, multi-layered issues, students gain a competitive edge in fields such as cultural heritage, environmental management, and community consultancy. The ability to bridge the gap between different areas of expertise makes graduates ideal candidates for leadership roles in multifaceted organisations.