The Interdisciplinary Studies Ph.D. program is designed for highly motivated students whose goals for research and classwork do not fit into one of The University of Alabama department-based Ph.D. programs. There is no such thing as a typical IDS Ph.D. student. Students have ranged in age from 22 to 85. Although many Interdisciplinary Studies Ph.D. students pursue their studies full time, others are working professionals who balance their studies with full time employment. As a pre-requisite to admission, IDS Ph.D. students work with the Graduate School to identify faculty members who can help guide the proposed research. The Graduate School also works with prospective students to make sure that we can support your research goals with classes that are offered at The University of Alabama.<br>To ensure that The University of Alabama can help students achieve research, classwork and career goals, all prospective students must meet with the Graduate School Associate Dean for Admissions, Recruitment, and Fellowships prior to starting an application for the Interdisciplinary Studies, PhD. The Associate Dean will help prospective students identify a home department, advisor and advisory committee members (a prerequisite for admission).