The Integrated Studies, BA provides students with maximum flexibility and multiple pathways through the curriculum, to complete a degree through the combination of two course clusters:
One cluster must be based on a CLAS minor or certificate in the CU Denver catalog. The cluster must be at least 15 credits, and students can add additional courses (up to 21 credits total in one discipline) to either meet this 15-credit minimum or fulfill the minor or certificate’s requirements if they exceed 15 credits.
The second cluster must also be at least 15 credits. This cluster is more flexible and can be constructed in one of three ways:
- it can be based on a minor or certificate in the catalog (within CLAS or another school or college)
- it can be constructed by the student using a group of courses from a variety of disciplines that form a coherent body of knowledge (an interdisciplinary cluster)
- it can be based on a pre-formed thematic cluster with an already-approved group of classes.
Students also complete an Introductory and Capstone course bringing together the learning from their two clusters.
This degree is also designed to help students integrate previously completed coursework to design a novel major. It is especially helpful for students who have switched majors, colleges or institutions, and are looking for a meaningful way to complete their degree.
These degree requirements are subject to periodic revision by the academic department, and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences reserves the right to make exceptions and substitutions as judged necessary in individual cases. Therefore, the College strongly urges students to consult regularly with their major advisor and CLAS advisor to confirm the best plans of study before finalizing them.
Program Delivery
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This is both an on-campus and online program.
Declaring This Major
- Click here to go to information about declaring a major.
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Students are required to submit a program plan that includes a course contract and a proposal, if they plan to use any constructed clusters. Copies of completed Integrated Studies course contracts must be filed with the Integrated Studies Faculty Advisor and with the student's CLAS Academic Advisor.
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The Integrated Studies course contract must include:
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A list of the courses in your chosen clusters as well as potential alternate courses. You should work closely with the Integrated Studies Faculty Advisor and faculty advisors in your chosen clusters to create your course contract.
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Signatures from your Integrated Studies Faculty Advisor, from any faculty advisors from minors used in your contract, and from your CLAS Academic Advisor
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- The Integrated Studies constructed cluster proposal form must include:
- a title for the cluster.
- a list of proposed courses (including alternates).
- a one-paragraph explanation of how the cluster constitutes a coherent body of knowledge.
- approval from your Faculty Advisor