The College of Humanities and Social Sciences is pleased to announce that the Bachelor of Individualized Studies Program has joined with the School of Integrative Studies (SIS).
Kelly Dunne, faculty member and executive director of SIS, notes that the school is a logical home for the individualized study program, as it was housed for several years within the New Century College, SIS’s predecessor at Mason.
She emphasizes that the program will continue to serve adult learners seeking bachelor's degree completion, whether they wish to continue their educations through graduate or professional programs, to bolster their opportunities for professional advancement or career change, or to obtain personal fulfillment. Within SIS, however, individualized study students will find greater access to faculty and to student peers who are committed to their academic experiences.
“I think the most exciting part of this change is that we’re going to preserve the distinctive opportunities and strengths of the BIS program, while integrating these students with a larger community of like-minded students and faculty,” agrees Robert Matz, interim dean, College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
This change takes effect in the spring 2018 semester, and works in concert with the Student Success goals articulated in George Mason University’s strategic plan: offering innovative learning platforms and accessible pathways to an education that will not only provide a strong return on investment for our students, but will prepare career-ready graduates ready to serve the community, the commonwealth, and the world. With the multiple avenues for experiential learning that are afforded by the Bachelor of Individualized Study Program within the School for Integrative Studies, the benefits of a George Mason University bachelor’s degree will be within reach of an even broader cadre of students.
“The integrative studies faculty and staff are eager to welcome them back home,” adds Dunne.
January 25, 2018
