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online associate's degree of multidisciplinary studies

Get a solid foundation in general studies with a 2-year degree that easily transfers into any bachelor's degree program.
Summer term classes start in June.

100% online learning.

Earn your degree on your schedule

$459 per credit hour.

$250 military preferred cost per credit

60 total credit hours.

Build resume-boosting skills with an online Associate Degree that works.

Employers want to hire people who can solve problems, make good decisions, work in teams and communicate effectively. In the online multidisciplinary studies degree program, you’ll gain these skills as you build expertise in critical areas – from technology fundamentals to management and leadership. Master workforce skills that can be applied in many different fields – and see your career possibilities grow.

A worthwhile investment in your career and your future.

Wondering if a college degree is worth the investment? With a multidisciplinary studies associate degree, every online course is designed to benefit your career—no matter what field you end up in. You can rest assured that you’re making a good investment in your future.

No major? No problem.

You may not be ready to choose a college major. That’s okay. The online AS degree in multidisciplinary studies allows you to keeping moving forward in your education, while figuring out what topics really capture your interest. Learn skills that will help you both immediately and in your future.

what you'll learn.

In this program, you’ll learn to think critically across disciplines, communicate clearly, and apply diverse perspectives to real-world issues while developing professionalism and civic responsibility.

upon graduation, students will be able to:
  • Communicate ideas, theories, and positions with clarity.
  • Compare and contrast the perspectives of two or more academic disciplines or fields.
  • Apply the perspectives of two or more academic disciplines or fields to significant questions or problems.
  • Model components of professionalism and responsible citizenship.
Take the next step to advance your career.

Awards

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Multidisciplinary Studies degree courses

Current students please login to BRUIN and select “Academic Progress” for your curriculum requirements.

Requirements (60 credit hours)

The Associate Degree in Multidisciplinary Studies has three components: The Framework (9 credit hours), the Integrative General Education core (27 credit hours), and the Multidisciplinary Studies Major (24 credit hours).

Framework Courses (9 credit hours)

(Click a course name below to view course details)

The Framework includes three courses that help you gain the knowledge and develop the fundamental skills for succeeding in the program.

All students majoring in Multidisciplinary Studies must complete the 3 Framework courses.

This course provides a welcome to college learning, introduces information about academic support services, and focuses on the skills necessary for student development and success. Topics such as time management, learning styles, study skills, and writing techniques are taught and practiced through interactive modules and activities for academic and real-life application.

Introduction to Algebra is designed to prepare students to be successful in MA 101 (Intermediate Algebra). Topics include whole numbers, integers, fractions and mixed numbers, decimals, ratios and proportions, percents, algebraic expressions, linear equations and the rectangular coordinate system. Students also learn to graph one- and two-variable equations. The real-life application of each topic will be emphasized through the course.

EN 100 is the introductory course in the English sequence courses designed to improve writing and critical thinking. The course introduces students to habits of mind, thinking/writing process, rhetorical strategy, and selected writing techniques to publish an essay, all of which are applicable in communicating, decision-making, problem-solving, and life-long learning. EN 100 stresses growth and improvement: getting better through self-evaluation, learning community exchanges, and instructor feedback to foster confidence as writers. EN 100 cannot be taken as an elective if EN 101 has been successfully passed.

Integrative General Education Courses (27 credit hours)

General Education courses help form the basis for academic study in all fields and establish a strong platform for lifelong learning.

All students majoring in Multidisciplinary Studies must complete courses in the following Integrative General Education categories:

Foundational Courses (15 credit hours)
Written Communication (9 credit hours)

Like its foundational sequence course, EN 101 emphasizes critical thinking and writing improvement. Students exercise analytical habits of mind, rhetorical strategy, and thinking/writing process to approach writing situations, to publish an analytical essay. The course stresses growth as thinkers and writers through self-evaluation, learning community exchanges, and instructor feedback to improve and gain confidence as writers. Strategies and techniques learned in this English sequence course will prepare students for EN 102 and also for writing in other coursework, workplaces, and society.

EN 102 is the last course in the English Composition sequence. Like other sequence courses, EN 102 emphasizes critical thinking and writing improvement. Students apply the analytical habits of mind, rhetorical strategy, and the thinking/writing process learned in earlier courses to produce a research-based argument essay. Throughout the course, students assess growth and make adjustments to improve thinking and writing through honest self-evaluation, critical exchanges within community of writers, and instructor feedback. The habits of mind, rhetorical strategy, thinking/writing process, discourse in community, and self-improvement are designed to prepare students as confident life-long learners in academics, professions, and society. Prerequisite: EN 101 or equivalent.

This course provides training in the fundamentals of public speaking in the 21st-century, mediated environment. By learning the principles of presentation development, organization, and delivery, students will be empowered to share their messages in a variety of forums.

Mathematics (3 credit hours)

Select one of the following:

This course presents the real number system and its properties, linear equations and inequalities and their graphs, systems of equations and inequalities and their application in problem solving, polynomials and rational expressions, and radical equations. Prerequisite: MA 100 or placement via ALEKS Placement Exam

This course is designed to help students build foundational problem solving and reasoning skills that they can apply in various aspects of everyday life. Topics include: logic, finance, consumer math, probability, basic statistical and algebraic concepts, and various other applied topics in math. This course is best suited for students who are either pursuing a major in a non-math related field or who are pursuing a major that does not require a math course as part of its core requirements. Prerequisite: MA100 or placement via ALEKS Placement Exam

Technology (3 credit hours)

Select one of the following:

This course introduces software, hardware and operating systems concepts for the beginner. Topics include fundamentals of computer technology; basic installation and configuration of PCs, laptops and related hardware; and basic computer use.

This course introduces best practices on how users should secure information and information technology. Topics include the protecting of sensitive and private information, social media and online accounts, and computers and mobile devices. In addition, students will learn about the dangers of poor data security, credit/debit card fraud, the threats of malware and ransomware, unethical security practices, and other unsafe computer habits that may adversely impact organizational operations, assets, individuals, or other organizations.

This course introduces the use of Microsoft Office 365™. Students will learn file management, including saving to the Cloud and to local devices. Hands-on assignments will help students become proficient in Word, Excel and PowerPoint as well as other productivity applications. Additionally, students will gain experience with collaborative applications.

This course explores the practical application of technology tools that facilitate creating and communicating information in a digital environment. Topics include the creation of basic documents, presentations, videos and web pages. This course also covers social networks, digital research, online collaboration, communication etiquette, online privacy and security.

Integrative Courses (12 credit hours)
Human Behavior (3 credit hours)

This introductory course focuses on the era of the American Founding and examines documents, ideas, and institutions that formed the American government—including the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, and several of the Federalist Papers. This course also examines the three primary branches of government, as well as the institutions that influence public policy development.

Human Civilization (3 credit hours)

Select one of the following:

This course introduces students to world history from the earliest civilizations to 1500 CE. The course emphasizes histories of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East and includes histories of Africa, the Americas, and Oceania. Primary focus is on the historical significance of political, economic, demographic, religious, and cultural developments.

This course introduces students to world history from 1500 CE to modern times. The course emphasizes histories of Europe, Asia, and North America and includes histories of Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, and Oceania. Primary focus is on the historical significance of political, economic, demographic, and cultural changes.

This course examines major developments in America from the precolonial period through Reconstruction. The course will explore both the story of American history and the big concepts behind it, through the lens of shifting ideas of freedom.

This course examines major developments in America from the end of Reconstruction through modern times. The course will explore both the story of American history and the big concepts behind it, through the lens of shifting ideas of freedom.

Human Thought and Expression (3 credit hours)

Select one of the following:

This course introduces the development and application of small group communication theories designed to enhance communication skills needed in the work place and in various social environments. Competencies in the areas of effective communication, adaptability, conveying information, managing conflict, organized thinking, and problem solving are addressed.

This course introduces concepts and basic theories of interpersonal communication. Students will identify areas for personal improvement and for increasing their repertoire of communication behavior choices. Competencies in the areas of listening, perceiving, integrating, and conveying information are addressed.

This course introduces argumentation as a model of critical thinking. Students will learn the foundation of critical thinking and how critical thinking positively impacts communication.

This course examines some of the best short works of fiction written in English within the past fifty years, showcasing a variety of styles and forms. These stories employ traditional and innovative techniques of storytelling and provide insights into the challenges of contemporary life. We will apply analytical techniques and literary lenses to create a richer understanding of the texts. These writings will also serve as models for students’ own creative work.

Natural Sciences (3 credit hours)

Select one of the following:

Through a series of compelling stories about great discoveries and scientists, you will learn the basic concepts of biology. Have you ever wondered why the world is green? How does your body protect you from being sick? Do vaccines really cause autism? Will your genes be used for medicine in the future? Are you really what you eat and how does your gut connect to your brain? Using interactive lectures, video documentaries and experiments, students will apply the basics of the scientific method and we will provide answers to all these questions.

This course will examine the natural sciences through the lens of science fiction in literature and film. Weekly topics will explore scientific subjects and the role they play in science fiction. Students will apply the basics of the scientific method; evaluate the validity of scientific principles used in science fiction; and explore basic concepts of the natural sciences.

Major Requirements (24 credit hours)

Quantitative, Problem-Solving, and Technology (6 credit hours)

Select two of the following:

This course is an introduction to the field of data science and the skills required to be a data scientist. The course explores the basics of data science including: vocabulary, common programming languages, data visualization, presentations, data analysis, the history of information, data ethics, and the data science process. Students should have a better understanding of how they generate data and how data science impacts them as a consumer of this information. Prior programming experience is not needed for this course.

In today's business environment, critical thinking is essential for effective problem solving and decision making. This course applies critical thinking to assess problems, evaluate solutions, and appraise risks. Students explore a variety of problem solving and decision-making processes and apply these to individual business problems.

This course provides the theoretical basis and problem-solving experience needed to apply the techniques of descriptive and inferential statistics, to analyze quantitative data, and to improve decision making over a wide range of areas. Topics covered include descriptive statistics, linear regression, data gathering methodologies and probability, as well as confidence intervals and hypothesis testing for one and two samples. Use of technology in solving and interpreting statistical problems is emphasized. Prerequisite: MA 101 or placement via ALEKS Placement Assessment

This course provides an introduction to problem solving and computer programming using the language Python. Students will analyze problems, design and implement solutions and assess the results. Topics include fundamental programming constructs such as variables, expressions, functions, control structures and lists. Emphasis is placed on numerical and data analysis for informed decision making. Prerequisite: None

This course is a study of the behavior of the macroeconomy, including the causes and consequences of inflation, unemployment, and the business cycle. Monetary, fiscal, and “supply side” policies for dealing with macroeconomic problems are examined. Prerequisites: Basic college level ability in English, logic, and mathematics

This course introduces fundamental technologies used in information systems. Students will develop a foundation in cybersecurity by learning the fundamental concepts behind cybersecurity. In addition, students will learn cybersecurity principles used in the design of systems to protect information and assets against persistent and constantly evolving threats.

This course introduces software, hardware and operating systems concepts for the beginner. Topics include fundamentals of computer technology; basic installation and configuration of PCs, laptops and related hardware; and basic computer use.

This course introduces best practices on how users should secure information and information technology. Topics include the protecting of sensitive and private information, social media and online accounts, and computers and mobile devices. In addition, students will learn about the dangers of poor data security, credit/debit card fraud, the threats of malware and ransomware, unethical security practices, and other unsafe computer habits that may adversely impact organizational operations, assets, individuals, or other organizations.

This course introduces the use of Microsoft Office 365™. Students will learn file management, including saving to the Cloud and to local devices. Hands-on assignments will help students become proficient in Word, Excel and PowerPoint as well as other productivity applications. Additionally, students will gain experience with collaborative applications.

This course explores the practical application of technology tools that facilitate creating and communicating information in a digital environment. Topics include the creation of basic documents, presentations, videos and web pages. This course also covers social networks, digital research, online collaboration, communication etiquette, online privacy and security.

Communication, Collaboration, and Leadership (6 credit hours)

Select two of the following:

This course introduces foundational communication skills for business and professional situations. Emphasis is placed on the skills of developing effective workplace relationships, collaborating with others in groups and teams, and presenting information to meet audience needs.

This course explores fundamental project management concepts, processes, and knowledge areas. Discussion includes aligning projects with organizational processes and strategies to achieve business goals and objectives, comparative analysis, introduction to risk, and the fundamentals of financial management.

This course focuses on emotional intelligence as it relates to the workplace. Emphasis is placed on developing and leveraging emotional intelligence competencies.

Cultural differences have profound effects on communication. This course examines communication challenges that arise from cultural diversity and explores ways to effectively address those challenges to create more inclusive workplace environments.

This course is an introduction to the scientific foundations of the study of behavior and a survey of basic topics of psychology such as sensation and perception, the brain and nervous system, learning and memory, language and thinking, intelligence, motivation, emotions, personality, development, stress, and abnormal behavior. This course is a prerequisite for all other courses in Psychology except PY 200, PY 211, PY 222 and PY 250

This course provides students with a broad, general introduction to the field of sociology, its approaches to social life, and how this knowledge can be applied to improving the quality of individual life and society. Basic principles of sociology are introduced: investigating social behavior, culture, institutions, social interactions, social inequality, and social change.

This course examines structures of personal and social experiences like care, kindness, self-esteem, and authenticity as the basis for self-discovery and ethical action. Students are introduced to a wide range of contemporary frameworks, including existentialism and feminism, to help them develop the ability to identify their own ethical values and reflect critically on their foundations.

Additional Requirements (12 credit hours)

Select four courses from the following:

This course is an introduction to the field of data science and the skills required to be a data scientist. The course explores the basics of data science including: vocabulary, common programming languages, data visualization, presentations, data analysis, the history of information, data ethics, and the data science process. Students should have a better understanding of how they generate data and how data science impacts them as a consumer of this information. Prior programming experience is not needed for this course.

In today's business environment, critical thinking is essential for effective problem solving and decision making. This course applies critical thinking to assess problems, evaluate solutions, and appraise risks. Students explore a variety of problem solving and decision-making processes and apply these to individual business problems.

This course provides the theoretical basis and problem-solving experience needed to apply the techniques of descriptive and inferential statistics, to analyze quantitative data, and to improve decision making over a wide range of areas. Topics covered include descriptive statistics, linear regression, data gathering methodologies and probability, as well as confidence intervals and hypothesis testing for one and two samples. Use of technology in solving and interpreting statistical problems is emphasized. Prerequisite: MA 101 or placement via ALEKS Placement Assessment

This course provides an introduction to problem solving and computer programming using the language Python. Students will analyze problems, design and implement solutions and assess the results. Topics include fundamental programming constructs such as variables, expressions, functions, control structures and lists. Emphasis is placed on numerical and data analysis for informed decision making. Prerequisite: None

This course is a study of the behavior of the macroeconomy, including the causes and consequences of inflation, unemployment, and the business cycle. Monetary, fiscal, and “supply side” policies for dealing with macroeconomic problems are examined. Prerequisites: Basic college level ability in English, logic, and mathematics

This course introduces fundamental technologies used in information systems. Students will develop a foundation in cybersecurity by learning the fundamental concepts behind cybersecurity. In addition, students will learn cybersecurity principles used in the design of systems to protect information and assets against persistent and constantly evolving threats.

This course introduces software, hardware and operating systems concepts for the beginner. Topics include fundamentals of computer technology; basic installation and configuration of PCs, laptops and related hardware; and basic computer use.

This course introduces best practices on how users should secure information and information technology. Topics include the protecting of sensitive and private information, social media and online accounts, and computers and mobile devices. In addition, students will learn about the dangers of poor data security, credit/debit card fraud, the threats of malware and ransomware, unethical security practices, and other unsafe computer habits that may adversely impact organizational operations, assets, individuals, or other organizations.

This course introduces the use of Microsoft Office 365™. Students will learn file management, including saving to the Cloud and to local devices. Hands-on assignments will help students become proficient in Word, Excel and PowerPoint as well as other productivity applications. Additionally, students will gain experience with collaborative applications.

This course explores the practical application of technology tools that facilitate creating and communicating information in a digital environment. Topics include the creation of basic documents, presentations, videos and web pages. This course also covers social networks, digital research, online collaboration, communication etiquette, online privacy and security.

This course introduces foundational communication skills for business and professional situations. Emphasis is placed on the skills of developing effective workplace relationships, collaborating with others in groups and teams, and presenting information to meet audience needs.

This course explores fundamental project management concepts, processes, and knowledge areas. Discussion includes aligning projects with organizational processes and strategies to achieve business goals and objectives, comparative analysis, introduction to risk, and the fundamentals of financial management.

This course focuses on emotional intelligence as it relates to the workplace. Emphasis is placed on developing and leveraging emotional intelligence competencies.

Cultural differences have profound effects on communication. This course examines communication challenges that arise from cultural diversity and explores ways to effectively address those challenges to create more inclusive workplace environments.

This course is an introduction to the scientific foundations of the study of behavior and a survey of basic topics of psychology such as sensation and perception, the brain and nervous system, learning and memory, language and thinking, intelligence, motivation, emotions, personality, development, stress, and abnormal behavior. This course is a prerequisite for all other courses in Psychology except PY 200, PY 211, PY 222 and PY 250

This course provides students with a broad, general introduction to the field of sociology, its approaches to social life, and how this knowledge can be applied to improving the quality of individual life and society. Basic principles of sociology are introduced: investigating social behavior, culture, institutions, social interactions, social inequality, and social change.

This course examines structures of personal and social experiences like care, kindness, self-esteem, and authenticity as the basis for self-discovery and ethical action. Students are introduced to a wide range of contemporary frameworks, including existentialism and feminism, to help them develop the ability to identify their own ethical values and reflect critically on their foundations.

27
24
9

Integrative General Education Credits

Major Requirements Credits

Elective Credits

= 60 total credits*

University Accreditation

Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission ( hlcommission.org ), a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Whether a college, university, or program is accredited is important to students receiving financial aid, employers who provide tuition assistance, donors, and the federal government.

Accreditation Information

This program is considered a non-licensure degree/certificate program and is not intended for those seeking licensure or the practice of licensed profession. This program may be relevant to multiple occupations that do not require licensure and was not designed to meet educational requirements for any specific professional license or certification.

*Consult with an admissions counselor to determine your eligible credits, as well as to verify minimum graduation requirements for this degree. Transfer credits must be from a regionally accredited college or university. Bellevue University makes no promises to prospective students regarding the acceptance of credit awarded by examination, credit for prior learning, or credit for transfer until an evaluation has been conducted.

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Study on your own time with courses designed to fit your busy life—whether you're working, raising a family, or serving in the military.

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Access 24/7 tech support to keep you connected and focused on learning, no matter where you are.

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Enjoy interactive courses designed for real-world application, with multimedia content, discussions, and hands-on projects.

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