Class Discussion

Interdisciplinary Departments & Programs:

advancing interdisciplinarity:

Interdisciplinarity is the means by which various disciplinary perspectives are integrated in order to arrive at new ways of thinking about complex topics. This is an increasingly important area of study, both in academia and the private sector, as interdisciplinary thinking is uniquely positioned to explore many of the important challenges of our time. As a student in an interdisciplinary program of study, you will work with faculty and students across the disciplines, approaching your chosen subject matter from many vantage points and with a flexible, multi-pronged, cross-disciplinary mindset.

What Careers do Students in Interdisciplinary Programs Pursue?

Our alumni are attorneys, editors, authors, consultants, educators, entrepreneurs, librarians, leaders in arts organizations and non-profits, and much more. Our graduates develop intellectual flexibility. They can adapt to constantly changing circumstances, and they have the confidence and imagination to envision solutions to our society's most pressing problems. They go on to become active, compassionate members of their communities and knowledgeable leaders in their fields, equipped with an invaluable understanding of the relationship between the day-to-day work they do and its impact on the larger world.

Malisha Cooper-Suggs '16

Malisha Cooper-Suggs '16 pursued a minor in African Diaspora Studies while also pursuing a degree in Culture and Communications. Presently, she is a Principal Associate for Program Coordination and Services at the Pew Charitable Trusts—an organization of dedicated researchers, communicators, advocates, subject matter experts, and professionals working on today’s big challenges and using data to improve public policy, inform the public, and invigorate civic life. Previously, Malisha was an Associate Director at Spark the Journey, an organization dedicated to providing mentorship and a community of support for young adults to chart their own paths to achieving college and career success. While at Ithaca College, she served on the editorial board for the IC Journal of Race, Culture, Gender, and Ethnicity.

Michael C. Ahl '04

Michael C. Ahl '04 pursued Legal Studies while at Ithaca College. Presently, he is an attorney at the United States Department of Commerce. He also served in the United States Air Force for over ten years, beginning as an Assistant Staff Judge Advocate and, later, serving as an Executive Officer and an Assistant to the General Counsel. Michael's academic interests in speech communications and legal studies coalesced in an internship, along with opportunities to present at various conferences. He served in various leadership roles, including his tenure as President of Lambda Pi Eta- National Communication Honor Society "The classes I took within the legal studies department at Ithaca College," he noted, "provided a solid base of knowledge that I draw upon every day."