Bachelor of Individualized Study (BIS)

Focuses on developing an understanding of interdisciplinary research and academic writing. Students explore their self-selected research topics, develop and create individualized plans of study integrating multiple disciplines, and review BIS program requirements. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.

A comprehensive, research-based, problem-solving educational experience in which adult students learn the multiple factors that affect adult degree completion, assess their situation regarding these factors, and develop skills and plans to overcome the challenges of completing a bachelor’s degree as an adult. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.

This course serves new transfer students in the Bachelors of Individualized Studies (BIS) program, and assists them with a successful transition to Mason. Students develop relationships with peers, staff, and faculty. They are introduced to campus resources, with special emphasis on research and writing resources and tools, and work closely with BIS academic advisors and faculty. Notes: Only transfer students in their first or second semester at Mason are eligible to take this course. Only one of BIS 304, UNIV 300, UNIV 302, UNIV 303, UNIV 304, UNIV 305, or UNIV 308 may be taken for credit. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.

Focuses on skills to develop a research project, find and organize relevant information, examine and critique evidence, establish criteria, and create plan to complete senior project. Notes: Open only to BIS majors. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to BIS 391.

Selected topics reflecting interest in specialized areas. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 6 credits.

Readings and research on a topic directly relevant to student's core concentration. Notes: Open only to pre-BIS students and BIS majors. Individualized sections by arrangement. Guided by instructor with expertise. Topics must be approved by instructor and BIS director prior to enrollment. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.

Capstone project or thesis on an interdisciplinary topic directly relevant to student's concentration. Students learn to think critically and objectively while researching a topic of their choice and synthesizing knowledge gained from their studies. Course readings and assignments are designed to illustrate and provide experience in various components of the research and writing process. Notes: Open only to BIS majors. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.

Supervised experience in application of specified area. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 9 credits.