IS3D FAQ

The Interdisciplinary Studies in Three Departments (IS3D) program at San Diego State University allows students to design their own coursework by selecting classes from three different disciplines. This unique degree aims to prepare students for diverse career paths by fostering creative and integrative thinking.

To join the IS3D major, you need to follow the application process outlined on the IS3D website. This involves meeting our admissions criteria, and creating a custom plan that includes coursework from three different disciplines.

A custom plan in the IS3D program is a personalized course of study that includes classes from three different academic disciplines. This plan is designed to align with your academic and career goals.

To join the IS3D major, you need to follow the application process outlined on the IS3D website. This involves meeting our admissions criteria and creating a custom plan that includes coursework from three different disciplines. For a detailed guide, check out our video on applying to the major, available on our website.

The number of classes required for the IS3D major is comparable to other majors. However, the unique aspect is that you will be taking courses from three different disciplines, which may require careful planning to ensure you meet all requirements.

Yes, the major is open to transfer students. Transfer students must meet our admission requirements prior to being admitted into the major. 

The three required General Studies (GEN S) classes are designed to help integrate the knowledge and skills from your three chosen disciplines. These courses aim to enhance your interdisciplinary thinking and prepare you for the job market. For more details, check out our video All About the Three Upper-Division Integrative Core Classes for additional information. 

Yes, you can contact an advisor for face-to-face or virtual meetings.

They are well-prepared for diverse careers due to their broad skillset.

Yes, IS3D students can pursue minors or double majors.

No, you must meet our admission requirements before you are eligible for admission into our major. 

"Yes! With careful planning, most students graduate on time. However, to ensure you can graduate on time, it's important to meet our admissions requirements, consult with an academic advisor, and change your major as soon as possible."

Unfortunately, no. Even if all your disciplines are science-based, your degree will still be awarded as a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Yes, you can double major with an IS3D degree. However, your primary major cannot be used as one of the disciplines for your IS3D major.

No, you cannot double-count a lower-division course for two disciplines. Each discipline requires at least 6 units of lower-division coursework, unless otherwise specified by the discipline.

To make changes to your custom plan, you can submit a Custom Plan Adjustment Form. This form will allow you to add or remove a course from your custom plan and change a discipline. For assistance, check out our videos titled Adding a Class to Your Custom Plan, or Changing a Discpline in your Custom Plan, which can guide you through the process of filling out the Custom Plan Adjustment Form appropriately.

Yes, if you decide that IS3D is not the right fit, you can change back to a different major. You will need to meet with an advisor from the new major to discuss the transition and ensure you meet the new major’s requirements.

The IS3D program includes an internship requirement to provide practical experience in your chosen fields. You can find more information at IS3D Internships. The internship requirement is 100 hours to be completed when you are enrolled in GEN S 400. You can contact our Internship Coordinator Alison Aiken at [email protected].