The Master of Science in interdisciplinary studies provides graduate students the opportunity to complete a tailored program of study that integrates knowledge and scholarship from two or more disciplines traditionally associated with a Master of Science. Students seeking graduate study in emerging interdisciplinary fields or cross-disciplinary specialties for which the University of Mississippi does not yet offer a defined degree select two or more concentrations to integrate as they develop mastery. <br><br>Students may select a thesis or nonthesis track. The thesis track requires completion of a thesis that reflects original research conducted during their enrollment in the Master of Science in interdisciplinary studies. The non-thesis track requires a capstone project that applies the cross-disciplinary knowledge.<br><br>The thesis option prepares students to conduct research/scholarship needed for research careers and doctoral study. Thesis students conduct original research, completed in entirety during enrollment in the Master of Science in interdisciplinary studies degree, which integrates their two or more selected disciplines. Graduate faculty representing each of the selected disciplines comprises the examination committee for the thesis.<br><br>The non-thesis option equips students to apply cross-disciplinary knowledge. Students complete a capstone experience in which they gain applied experience integrating two or more disciplines. Students design a capstone experience, with guidance from a committee of faculty representing each of the selected disciplines, to integrate their unique cross-disciplinary expertise in a non-research setting to address a particular theme or goal directly related to real-world problems/needs.