• The degree in Individualized Studies offers an academic home for students with multiple interests to develop their own plan of study by integrating a set of core classes with courses in almost any area of study. Western courses explore diverse subjects but share a strong interdisciplinary theme. By emphasizing the importance of studying complex issues from multiple perspectives, these courses equip students with skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and objective analysis. The individualized portion of the major is designed by students in close consultation with faculty and staff advisers and draws from courses across the university. The degree culminates in a student-designed project that positions students for entry into graduate school or the workplace.
  • The major is designed for flexibility so students can develop their own course of study. In their first year, they will begin with an introductory writing-intensive course and another on interdisciplinary inquiry. They will also concentrate on the Miami Plan, a well-rounded course of study that provides them with an excellent liberal arts education. Through the Miami Plan, students will get a solid base in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, fine arts, and formal reasoning. Students will be able to explore many of their academic interests and begin to think about how they want to integrate them.