The Student-Designed Major (SDM) enables qualified students, with advising, to design an independent, interdisciplinary course of study outside the traditional department structure at Saint Mary’s. If you are self-motivated and academically determined, we invite you to reach your educational goals through a combination of courses from existing majors and minors.
This is a highly ambitious program, and it’s not for everyone. The SDM is offered to superior students with specific educational objectives, and passion for those objectives. Working with faculty, you will develop your own interdisciplinary degree proposal, tailored to suit your specific interests and explore your chosen fields.
As an SDM you will embark on a journey across the College curriculum. Guided by two faculty advisors, you will experience the independence of learning “outside the box.” You will explore the interconnectedness of knowledge from varying disciplines, and direct your own course through an academically dynamic program.
"Doing a student-designed major was great because it allowed me to be my own scholar. I was able to look at issues and tailor my education in a way that really fit me and my interests." —Ashley Ingram '07, Women's Studies, Religious Studies, and Political Science interdisciplinary major
Writing in the Major
In keeping with the spirit of the SDM, you will compile a writing portfolio based on your experiences in the courses that comprise your major. Depending on your classes, you may be required to write case studies, creative fiction and non-fiction, essays, reflection papers, research papers, or reviews. As with all of Saint Mary’s majors, you will submit several of these papers to fulfill your Writing and Advanced Writing Requirements.
Senior Comprehensive Requirement
Working with faculty, you will design a unique senior comprehensive research project based on your experiences in the courses that comprise your major.
Past projects include:
“The Mill in Medieval Ireland: A Study in Liminality,” —Katherine Frazier '08
"Cultivation: Four Independent Islands' Production, Family, and Faith," —Casandra Kruse '07
“Addressing Racism in the Women’s Movement,” —Amanda Schramm '06
Hands-on Learning
Experiential and service learning are intrinsic to the SDM. You will learn outside the traditional classroom and development your skills in the environment of your future profession. Your faculty advisors and various campus organizations, like the Office for Civic and Social Engagement and the Career Crossings Office, will connect you with internship and service learning resources. You’ll discover opportunities for research with faculty members and volunteer positions on campus and in the local community.
Careers
Businesses and organizations seek out people who can think outside the box. The SDM’s independent and creative approach to education will allow you to pursue your passion in a competitive and supportive environment. That will prepare you to join professionals in your chosen field. SDM alumnae have gone on to pursue exciting and challenging careers, from teaching English to Japanese students in Osaka, Japan, to case management for underserved populations, and advocating for individuals with disabilities.
Visit the Career Crossings Office to explore many great career opportunities for Saint Mary’s graduates.
