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Interdisciplinary Studies
The Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies (BIDS) program at Savannah State University, housed in the College of Education, is designed to equip students with a broad, versatile education that directly supports workforce development. Through an interdisciplinary approach, students gain skills across multiple fields, making them adaptable and well-prepared for a variety of careers or advanced study.
The BIDS program encourages students to explore a wide range of subject areas across the university, blending coursework in arts, sciences, education, business, and technology. Once foundational general education and core courses are completed, students select a concentration track, a complementary field, and an elective area tailored to their career goals and interests. This flexibility allows BIDS students to build a personalized academic path that aligns with current workforce needs and personal aspirations.
Courses Overview
The Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies (BIDS) program at Savannah State University offers a flexible 120-credit degree pathway with concentrations in Interdisciplinary Studies, Multidisciplinary Studies, or Educational Studies. The program combines major requirements with concentration courses, allowing students to tailor their studies to align with their career goals and interests.
Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies
Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies
Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies
What Comes Next After a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies (BIDS) Degree
Graduates of the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies (BIDS) program at Savannah State University are exceptionally well-prepared to enter a wide range of fields or pursue advanced studies. With a versatile skill set and experience in multiple disciplines, BIDS graduates can adapt to various career opportunities and excel in roles that demand problem-solving, critical thinking, and cross-disciplinary knowledge.Career Opportunities include:
Corporate and Business Roles
Interdisciplinary studies graduates often succeed in business environments, bringing diverse perspectives that can enhance project management, human resources, marketing, and customer relations. The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) reports that employers increasingly value adaptability, communication, and collaboration—all strengths of interdisciplinary studies majors. Many graduates advance into management roles within five years, with median annual salaries around $65,000 for entry-level roles in fields like marketing, management, and business development, and higher earnings as they progress.
Education and Training
With strong foundations in Educational Studies or Social Science tracks, many graduates become educators, curriculum designers, or training specialists. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for training specialists is projected to grow by 8% through 2031. BIDS graduates, especially those with a focus on educational studies, are well-equipped for these roles, where they can design and lead training programs in both corporate and educational environments.
Social Services and Community Outreach
BIDS graduates often work in social services, community development, and nonprofit organizations, where they use their cross-disciplinary knowledge to address complex social issues. They may pursue roles such as case managers, community outreach coordinators, or program directors. In social services, salaries vary widely based on location and organization, but mid-career professionals in these fields earn an average annual salary of $50,000 to $65,000, with substantial growth opportunities in nonprofit leadership.
Creative and Communications Fields
With their strong writing, analytical, and critical thinking skills, BIDS graduates are also well-suited for careers in media, journalism, public relations, and creative roles. In these fields, they may work as content creators, public relations specialists, or media coordinators. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that fields like public relations and communications are projected to grow by 6%, with mid-career salaries averaging $62,000, and many professionals advancing to higher-paying senior roles.
Graduate and Professional School
The interdisciplinary approach makes BIDS graduates ideal candidates for graduate or professional programs in law, business, education, public administration, and healthcare administration. Interdisciplinary students bring analytical and research skills valued in advanced studies. According to the Council of Graduate Schools, BIDS graduates who continue to graduate school earn 30% more annually than those with a bachelor’s degree alone.
Long-Term Career Growth and Impact
With a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies, graduates benefit from a foundation that encourages lifelong learning, adaptability, and innovative thinking. As they gain experience, many transition into leadership roles, pursue advanced degrees, or contribute as experts across multiple fields. With an education that is as adaptable as the evolving workforce itself, BIDS graduates are uniquely positioned to thrive in various sectors and make meaningful contributions to society.
Source: National Association of Colleges and Employers. (2024). Job outlook 2024: Key competencies for career readiness. Retrieved from https://www.naceweb.org/about-us/press/84f11510-0e20-4817-a5a6-559677522628
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies (BIDS) program?
The BIDS program at Savannah State University offers a flexible curriculum that allows students to integrate courses from multiple disciplines, tailoring their education to align with specific career goals and interests.
What concentrations are available within the BIDS program?
Students can choose from three concentration tracks:
Interdisciplinary Studies (General): A customizable track drawing from various fields.
Multidisciplinary Studies: Integrates multiple disciplines for specialized skills.
Educational Studies: Focuses on educational theory and practice.
How does the BIDS program support workforce development?
The program emphasizes critical thinking, adaptability, and communication skills, preparing graduates for diverse careers in business, education, social services, government, and more.
What are the degree requirements for the BIDS program?
The program requires completion of 120-122 credit hours, including core curriculum, major field courses, complementary field courses, and general electives.
Can I pursue graduate studies after completing the BIDS program?
Yes, the interdisciplinary approach provides a strong foundation for advanced studies in various fields, including law, business, education, and public administration.
What career opportunities are available to BIDS graduates?
Graduates are prepared for roles in business, education, social services, government, and nonprofit organizations, among others.
How do I apply to the BIDS program?
Prospective students should apply through Savannah State University’s admissions process and indicate their interest in the BIDS program.
Who can I contact for more information about the BIDS program?
For additional information, please contact the College of Education at Savannah State University at 912-358-4180.
Admissions Requirements
To be admitted to the College of Education’s Educator Preparation Program, which leads to Georgia Teacher Certification, you must meet the following criteria accepted by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC). The GaPSC is the state agency that issues the Georgia Teacher Certification and not the College of Education.
1. Entrance Testing Requirements:
- 240 Tutoring Diagnostic Reading Test Score or 15 clocked hours in the 240 Tutoring Reading Module;
- 240 Tutoring Diagnostic Math Test Score or 15 clocked hours in the 240 Tutoring Math Module;
- 240 Tutoring Diagnostic Content Area Test Score; Biology: ETS Practice Biology Test score; Secondary Math: ETS Practice Math Test score; Music: ETS Practice Music Test score; Engineering and Technology: ETS Practice Engineering and Tech Test score.
OR an Existing GACE Admission Tests Scores (posted prior to July 1, 2022):
Reading Score – 200 or higher and Math Score – 200 or higher in place of 240 Tutoring Reading
And Math.
2. Cumulative GPA of at least a 2.5
3. Pass EDUC 2110, EDUC 2120, & EDUC 2130 and complete 30 hours of field experiences
4. Submit a completed application for with all the required documents attached:
- Obtain 2 Faculty Recommendation letters: one from a content area/academic professor/instructor and one from a College of Education professor/instructor.
- Provide the names of 2 professors/instructors – one from College of Education and one from your academic courses who can verify your course attendance record.
- Student Disposition Forms completed by the people who write the recommendation letters: form with the application packet provided to you.
- Submit official SSU transcript (order transcript from registrar website, and have it electronically sent to Assessment Specialist, COE, [email protected]) cost $4.
- Submit Why I want to teach paper (why do you want to teach, what grade, and what content).
- Submit background check (For free SSU background check: Contact Sgt. Brown at 912-358-3035 or [email protected] to make an appointment to fill out the required consent forms for the background check).
- Submit the Verification of Lawful Presence form, which is with application packet (Dr. Thompson can notify, if you make an appointment with her) with a copy of the front and back of your Driver’s License.
- Acquire a Student Membership in the GAE to obtain proof of liability insurance.
After being admitted to the College of Education, you will be required to take the following tests with 4 months after your admission:
- GACE Ethics 360 and pass with a certificate
- One of the required GACE Content Test