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Statement of Support for Social Justice

Statement of Support for Social Justice

The Department of Interdisciplinary Studies in the Liberal Arts strives to create a diverse and inclusive environment in which all individuals are treated equitably with love, empathy, and respect regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, (dis)ability, and more.

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What is Interdisciplinary Studies?

Interdisciplinary Studies offers classes in a wide variety of subject areas, from applied practice in media arts and technologies to the study of social, cultural, political and ethical issues involved in science and technology.

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Aerial view of Cal Poly lit up at night, looking from over Poly Canyon

STS Minor Program

The Interdisciplinary Studies program also offers four interdisciplinary Science, Technology and Society (STS) minors.

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Humanities and Interdisciplinary

Although the IS program seems fairly new, it has existed for years. Before reflecting a more interdisciplinary outlook, the IS program was known as Cal Poly's Humanities program.

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Office Update: We have moved!

ISLA Department Office (52-D1-D4) is currently open M-T-TH 8:00am to 4:30pm and W-F remotely 8:00am to 4:30pm, however, you can reach the ISLA Department by email or phone using these contact details:

ISLA Department
PH: 805-756-2740

Department Coordinator
Krysia Hall:
khall39@calpoly.edu

IS Major email:
is@calpoly.edu 

STS Minor email:
sts@calpoly.edu

Dr. David Kirby:
dakirby@calpoly.edu 
PH: 805-756-6361

Why Interdisciplinary Studies?

What is the difference between interdisciplinary studies and a traditional approach to education? Although institutions will define these differences in their own ways, a traditional approach is usually defined by a disciplinary focus. For example, one may major in Communication Studies, History, or Philosophy. An interdisciplinary approach attempts to examine concepts, messages, and patterns across two or more of these disciplinary areas. Housed in the College of Liberal Arts, the Interdisciplinary Studies program provides Cal Poly students with opportunities to explore connections between and across traditional areas of academic inquiry. 

 

 

Cal Poly is in tiłhini, the Place of the Full Moon. We gratefully acknowledge, respect, and thank yak tityu tityu yak tiłhini, Northern Chumash Tribe of San Luis Obispo County and Region in whose homelands we are guests.  

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