University Studies

University Studies has three general objectives – to foster interdisciplinary teaching and scholarship, especially across departmental and collegiate boundaries; to promote active and integrative learning; and to nurture the scholarly and creative development of faculty, staff, and students.

In pursuit of these objectives, University Studies sponsors several activities. Faculty colloquies are ongoing, structured, interdisciplinary conversations on a topic or nexus of topics. Colloquies explore important contemporary issues which involve faculty and students from several disciplines and colleges. Advanced undergraduate and graduate students may attend by permission of colloquy coordinator.

Current colloquies include Appalachian Forum; Applied Phenomenological Studies; Creativity Group; Critical Theory; Cultural Diversity; Evolution and Culture; Gerontology; History and Philosophy of Science and Technology; Interdisciplinary Colloquy on Rhetoric; Spiritual and Critical Theory; and Spirituality and Health. Colloquies continue as long as they have faculty involvement and new colloquies form each year.

Interdisciplinary undergraduate courses are innovative offerings that are typically collaborative or team-taught. Most courses stem from the interdisciplinary colloquy discussions. There are several honors offerings for undergraduates. In addition, Chancellor's Honors students are encouraged to take a university studies (200-level or higher) course during their first two years to help fulfill their honors courses requirement.

Centripetals are monthly faculty and staff luncheons held over the academic year designed to encourage interdisciplinary conversation among faculty and staff about their creative and scholarly work. University Studies also works with other units across campus to facilitate visits by distinguished scholars of multidisciplinary interest. Such visiting scholars work with faculty groups on specific projects, participate in interdisciplinary forums, or present special lectures.

For further information, contact
Dr. Neil Greenberg, Chair 
F239 Walters Life Science Building
Phone (865) 974-8177
FAX (865) 974-2665
E-mail [email protected]

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