Interdisciplinary Studies Program
The Interdisciplinary Studies Program offers students an opportunity to explore issues of contemporary significance from multiple points of view. Students in Interdisciplinary Studies enroll in a theme, which is examined through a group of related courses. Classes are small. The traditional format is varied by team-teaching, guest speakers, student debates and class discussions, as well as by the use of films, visual art, music, legal and psychological case studies and other media. To allow time for field trips to agencies, courts, museums and other places pertinent to the theme, classes are scheduled once a week for double sessions.
The Interdisciplinary Studies Program is open to any full-time or part-time student who has been accepted for admission to the College. Students may complete as many as 60 credits in Interdisciplinary Studies. Credits earned in the program may be used to fulfill the College’s general education requirements and certain requirements in most majors, and they also count as electives. For additional information, contact the Department of Interdisciplinary Studies (212.237.8460, ispinfo@jjay.cuny.edu).
Internships
Students enrolled in the Interdisciplinary Studies Program may register each semester for 3-credit internships as part of their regular coursework. Placement is available in more than 40 organizations specializing in legal services, criminal justice, social service, and tutoring and counseling programs. Requirements include 7 to 8 hours of fieldwork each week, as well as preliminary and final papers and meetings with instructors. The Interdisciplinary Studies Program is also host to the highly selective John Jay Vera Institute Fellowship Program, which includes a two-semester paid internship at one of the agencies sponsored by the Vera Institute for Justice and a six-credit academic seminar. Applications are due each March.
For additional information on the Vera Fellowship, contact Professor Caroline Reitz, at creitz@jjay.cuny.edu.