Doctor of Philosophy -Individual Interdisciplinary Doctoral Program

All graduates will be able to:

1.  To assist qualified students in designing and achieving the framework for a uniquely, individualized doctoral degree program, tailored to their interests in successfully integrating the  knowledge and processes of three disciplines in their research and careers, the program aims to provide a variety of experiences that help students to:
   •  Develop knowledge and understanding of appropriate concepts, methods, and materials in three disciplines which appropriately constitute the framework of their  studies.
   •  Attain fundamental experience to apply knowledge in three unique disciplines while providing opportunities for creative and integrative thinking.
   •  Prepare and present research in peer reviewed journals and conference papers at professional meetings on the local, regional, and national levels.
   •  Participate in professional organizations, becoming members and attending meetings.
2.  To prepare students to be effective researchers, engaging teachers, and innovative thinkers, under the mentorship of leading teachers and researchers in various fields, for  productive careers that will produce interdisciplinary scholarship contributing to a positive and more global outcome, the program aims to provide a variety of experiences that help  students to:
   •  Attain fundamental mentorship from committee members from all three disciplines in support of the interdisciplinary research through integrative thinking.
   •  Become independent researchers in an interdisciplinary area of study by developing substantial expertise in that area which will allow them to make an original  contribution to it.
   •  Develop a research question with an understanding of previous and current research and be able to demonstrate that knowledge capably.
   •  Apply sound research methods and tools to the research question and describe the methods effectively.
   •  Analyze and interpret research data that makes clear sense of the data.
   •  Communicate effectively in both written and oral forms appropriate to the interdisciplinary study.
3.  To continue to maintain and enhance the visibility and importance of interdisciplinary studies, whether through existing interdisciplinary degrees or through the individual,  independent program of IIDP, the program aims to:
   • Attract and retain high-quality students and innovative thinkers.
   • Provide effective advising and mentoring that encourages students to matriculate in a timely manner.
   • Place graduates in position of academics and industry.
   • Continue to maintain communication with disciplinary programs and faculty regarding the importance of attracting nationally recognized faculty, providing  innovative advanced courses, and supporting independent, interdisciplinary studies for consistent interaction with IIDP students and their research.

Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5 in all graduate coursework, a 3.0 GPA in all undergraduate coursework, and have received a master's degree from an accredited institution. English proficiency exams are only required for international students for whom English is not the primary language. GRE scores sent directly from ETS are required (reporting code 4705). Applicants must provide evidence in their application that they are capable of independent research. The following materials must be submitted to the IIDP at the Graduate School in addition to the application required by the Graduate School available online (which includes the requirement of 3 letters of recommendation that address the applicant's scholarship): A brief description of the research area and a proposed program of study (no more than 3 pages), a letter from a permanent WSU tenure-track faculty member willing to serve as advisor commenting on the student's potential for success and the proposed program sent directly to the IIDP Graduate Coordinator, emails from at least four permanent tenure-track WSU faculty members indicating their willingness to serve as committee members sent directly to the IIDP Graduate Coordinator, and a summary statement by the student of faculty interests and disciplines that has led the applicant to believe the IIDP is the program needed to best pursue the degree.

Since 1983, approximately 85 individual interdisciplinary doctorates have been earned at WSU. Graduates of the program now work as university and college faculty as well as educational and business consultants and in government positions around the world.

Gather Your Documents

Check the admission requirements for information about academic standards and required documents.

Your application for admission must include:

• Official transcripts
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Copy of your passport identification page or national identity card

Get the admission application and other necessary forms.

Prepare Your Information

You will want to prepare some information before beginning your online application.

• Be ready to answer questions about your anticipated visa status
• Be ready to tell us how you meet the language proficiency requirement (through an English proficiency exam score or an exam waiver)

You may upload electronic copies of your documents when you submit your application online. If you upload transcripts they will be considered unofficial. It is best to send transcripts separately after you submit your application.

Complete the Application and Submit Documents

To complete the application and submit it for our review you will need to pay the $70 application fee by credit card or wire transfer. If you have questions about paying this fee please contact us.

If you do not wish to upload documents into the application, or do not have them ready to upload and submit, you may mail or email them to the International Undergraduate Admissions Office when you submit your application.

Office of International Programs
International Undergraduate Admissions
Kruegel Hall
PO Box 643251
Pullman, WA 99164-3251
USA
[email protected]