Build-a-degree

The one-size-fits-all mantra is quickly going out of style for modern academia. In a world where everything is customized to fit the “me, me, me” factor, it’s no surprise that higher education has jumped on the bandwagon, now offering students a one-of-a-kind learning experience that echoes the zeitgeist.

New York University’s Gallatin School of Individualized Study was one of the first of its kind to offer the unique opportunity to craft a curriculum that revolves around personal interests, curiosities and academic goals. Since it was founded in the early ’70s, students were freed from the constraints of a standard liberal arts degree and granted the ability to study topics across departmental boundaries, crafting their own concentrations.

The program nurtures students’ desire to explore classes seemingly irrelevant to their overall course studies, serving instead to create a well-rounded educational experience. It uses required interdisciplinary classes to bring a wide academic pallet together into a cohesive, interconnected plan of study. Whereas other undergrads are restricted to taking courses offered by their home school, Gallatin students take classes across NYU’s business, communication, performing arts, and other specialized schools.

Key to the four-year undergrad process is being closely connected with an assigned advisor who works and studies in whatever the field of interest. Advisors are responsible for ensuring that students fulfill requirements and providing students with professional advice on how to further their current education and future careers.

NYU isn’t the only university to endorse such an education plan. Ohio State University offers students a similar Personal Study Program (PSP), which affords students the opportunity to craft their own major with the flexibility of taking coursework across two or three departments. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee has also followed suit, offering students a Committee Interdisciplinary major.

Not thrilled with your major? With more and more universities implementing customizable degrees, your university might just offer the luxury of exploring, creating and developing an individualized major. Can’t hurt to ask.