What Is Integrated Studies? An Introduction

Traditionally, college students look to enroll in a degree program that aligns specifically with their career goals. However, modern learners are finding that this path is not always the right option for them, with many searching for an innovative program that offers flexibility and room for personalization.

As a direct answer to the needs of modern students, the integrated studies bachelor's degree program allows students to apply previously earned college credits, choose a focus area, and enjoy interdisciplinary learning that allows them to develop the transferable skills required in today's evolving workforce.

What Is Integrated Studies?

Integrated studies is an interdisciplinary approach to higher education, giving students the ability to personalize their program and focus on an academic area that aligns with their previous educational and professional experience. Colleges and universities adopted integrated studies programs in direct response to the dynamic needs of the modern economy. At a time when employers are looking for workers with key interdisciplinary skills, the integrated studies field has never been more relevant.

Integrated studies differs distinctly from traditional majors because it allows students to merge multiple fields. It's an excellent option for modern students, particularly adult learners, who want to use their previous college credits and prior learning from professional experience to earn a bachelor's degree and grow their careers.

Benefits of an Integrated Studies Degree

Students looking to invest in their education will find the integrated studies degree program to be particularly valuable. Appealing to adult learners or those who want to change careers, this degree program allows students to personalize their education and leverage the power of their previous academic and professional credentials. 

These are just a few of the benefits of an integrated studies degree that you should consider:

Customization and Flexibility

Designed specifically for students who have completed previous college coursework, the integrated studies degree program allows you to customize your program and choose a focus area that aligns with your interests and goals. Some examples of focus areas that have been created within this program include:

• Criminal Justice – Students with a background in law enforcement and previous college credits have created this focus area for their program.
• Law – Students with at least 40 college credits in law have been able to develop this focus area.
• Business Management – Students with previous professional experience in business and who have completed college coursework have successfully explored this focus area.

Interdisciplinary Problem-Solving

In addition to giving students the opportunity to focus on a key area that aligns with their personal interests and professional goals, the integrated studies degree program emphasizes the development of the core competencies required in the modern workforce. Students in this program will learn how to manage and interpret interactions in organizational settings, develop actionable strategies, communicate effectively in professional environments, and resolve challenges proactively and effectively. The interdisciplinary nature of this program allows students to learn to apply their knowledge and skills in diverse contexts.

Career Versatility

Rather than requiring students to choose a traditional major in which they prepare for one specific career path, the integrated studies degree program focuses primarily on interdisciplinary studies and transferable skills. It's the ideal degree program for adult learners hoping to change careers, but it's also an excellent choice for those seeking career versatility throughout their lives. With an emphasis on the core competencies required in today's modern workforce, this degree program prepares students to succeed professionally, regardless of where they choose to work in the future.

Efficiency for Adult Learners

Adult learners seeking a valuable, affordable degree program will find the integrated studies degree an excellent fit for their needs. This program allows them to customize their path forward by applying previously earned credits and prior learning from professional experience, ultimately giving them the ability to streamline the path toward completing a bachelor's degree program. 

Skills You’ll Develop in an Integrated Studies Program 

The skills that students gain throughout the integrated studies degree program make them adaptable and marketable professionals in multiple industries. These are the core competencies gained in this innovative degree program:

• Management skills
• Strategic planning
• Resource allocation
• Financial skills
• Business acumen
• Analytical skills
• Ethical skills
• Decision-making skills
• Communication
• Collaboration
• Critical thinking

Whether a student chooses to pursue a career in law enforcement or wants to move forward in the world of business, these fundamental skills will enable them to successfully navigate any professional setting, highlighting the versatility and functionality of this degree program.

Career Paths for Integrated Studies Graduates

The career paths for integrated studies graduates vary widely, due to the flexible nature of this degree program. The professional opportunities that may be available to you will depend heavily on your chosen focus area. For example, a student who chooses a focus in criminal justice may go on to pursue a career as a law enforcement officer or a parole officer. Another student in the same degree program, however, may choose to focus on business management and pursue a career in project management after graduation. 

Graduates from this program find success in numerous key sectors, such as:

• Business and Management
• Communications and Marketing
• Education and Training
• Technology and Data
• Public Service and Nonprofits

In addition, many students who earn a bachelor's degree in integrated studies continue on to graduate school, where they can build upon their well-rounded foundation and pursue an advanced degree.

Real-World Value of an Integrated Studies Degree

Employers are navigating an era in which worker skill disruption is defining the current landscape. Rapidly advancing technology combined with the need for greater flexibility in the workforce has led employers to prioritize candidates who have a firm grasp on the transferable core competencies required in a changing economy. Graduates who can connect concepts across disciplines, communicate effectively, and adapt to new challenges will be in high demand in the workforce. As a result, the integrated studies degree program uniquely prepares students for long-term career growth and lifelong learning.

Who Should Consider This Program?

Adult learners with prior college credits and experienced professionals seeking to change careers may want to consider this innovative degree program. The integrated studies degree is ideal for individuals with diverse interests, returning students with prior credits, and anyone seeking a flexible, career-relevant degree program.

Earn Your Integrated Studies Degree at Champlain College Online

Modern learners looking for a way to leverage the power of their previously earned college credit, along with their professional experience, will find an integrated studies degree to be the perfect solution. The online Bachelor of Integrated Studies degree at Champlain College Online offers a flexible, career-driven curriculum that enables you to create a 40-credit focus area using previously earned credits and demonstrated prior learning from your professional experience. The online format for this program, combined with the strong support for adult learners, makes this an excellent option for those looking to earn their bachelor's degree and grow their careers.

Contact admissions today and find out if the integrated studies bachelor's degree program is the right choice for you.