Bachelor in Individualized Studies

Standardized Concentration Course Description

UNIV 301 BIS Transitions

This course is an introduction to the standardized interdisciplinary concentrations within the Bachelor of Individualized Study (BIS) degree program at George Mason University (GMU). It has three broad goals:

First, to familiarize you with the BIS Program and the university resources available to help your transition to GMU;

Second, to explore interdisciplinarity in today's world and connect it with your intended BIS program of study. We will look at the historical development of academic disciplines in the university and exam the strengths and weaknesses of both disciplinary and interdisciplinary thinking; and

Third, to investigate both theoretical approaches and practical aspects of adult learning, and particularly how personality can affect your learning style

In working toward these goals, students will be expected to build relationships with the academic community, use technology, communicate well, identify and analyze problems, and gain an appreciation for multiple perspectives.

Individualized Course Descriptions & Syllabi

In an effort to continuously improve the educational experience of our BIS students, the following courses will be required for all those admitted to the Program:

BIS 300 Understanding Interdisciplinary Studies (3 hours)

Prerequisite: Open only to pre-BIS. students and BIS majors.

This course provides an opportunity for students to explore the literature relevant to multidisciplinary studies and their own interdisciplinary topics, to develop and gather feedback on the individualized concentration proposal, and to learn about and share timely program information. The course content and approach is designed to facilitate a better understanding of the opportunities BIS offers and to help each student develop a challenging and rewarding program of study that best suits his/her individual needs.

BIS 300 sample syllabus (.pdf)

BIS 390 The Research Process (3 hours)

Prerequisites: BIS 300 and ENGL 302. BIS degree students only.

This course provides a basic understanding of the research process and explores how knowledge is created through investigation and inquiry. Topics covered include framing a research problem, using resources, and supporting arguments with evidence. Students will complete a portfolio of research assignments and a final draft of a research proposal. The research proposal can be applied to a future senior project, thesis, capstone course, or independent study.
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BIS 390 Sample Syllabus (.pdf)

BIS 490 Senior Project (3 hours)

Prequisite: BIS 390

Corequisite: BIS 491

Students seeking a degree through the Bachelor of Individualized Study (BIS) program are required to complete a final capstone project. The purpose of this evidenced-based project is for students to demonstrate their ability to critically analyze a problem related to their interdisciplinary concentration/major. The BIS 490 Capstone Course represents the culminating and integrating educational activity of BIS students. Using a research process, students acquire significant knowledge in areas directly related to their educational goals. By means of an investigative or creative project (see “Two Options for Completing BIS 490 Project” below), students in BIS 490 synthesize knowledge gained from the student’s interdisciplinary program of study.
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BIS 491 Senior Project Presentation (1 hour)

Corequisite: BIS 490

Focuses on preparation and delivery of a formal presentation of student’s BIS 490 project. Includes review of basic presentation techniques.

In order to provide our students the most flexible education, in terms of subjects and schedule, the following courses are optional for BIS students:

BIS 489 Directed Readings (1-3 hours)

Prerequisite: Open only to degree students in the BIS program. Individualized sections by arrangement.

BIS 489: Directed Readings/Research is an individualized course of readings or research that may be done by the BIS student under the direction of a GMU faculty member. Students may register for 1, 2, or 3 semester hours. BIS 489 is not repeatable. BIS 489 explores a subject that is not available in the regular university course offerings. It may be taken as part of the student’s BIS concentration, or in preparation for BIS 490 (the final project).
However, it MAY NOT replace the research component of BIS 490.

Information and Guidelines for BIS 489

Sample of BIS 489 Description

BIS 495 (1-3 hours)

Prerequisite: permission of instructor and BIS director. Supervised experience in application of specified area. sert BIS 495 short Course Description.
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