The School of Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences (IAS) is a dynamic site of innovation at the University of Washington. Our mission statement demands that we develop academically challenging programs of study flexible enough to respond rapidly to changing research questions and regional needs, including those of non-traditional and traditional students. Our organizational structure - as an interdisciplinary, non-departmentalized school - enables us to fulfill this mission. The goal of the IAS faculty and staff is to educate students and conduct research through modes of inquiry that stretch across disciplinary and departmental boundaries inherited from the past. This endeavor requires that we cultivate an understanding of how multiple disciplines create knowledge about the world and a capacity to develop new avenues of exploration. The result is a learning environment where complex problems - not singular disciplines - dictate the directions of student and faculty inquiry.
The major introduces students to a range of domains, perspectives and questions of human experience, along with opportunities for exploring them through independent or collaborative research, social action, and/or critical reflection. Students are encouraged to evaluate how we come to understand human behavior and psychological processes, and to formulate critical questions about the field of psychology itself, including issues of power and human diversity. Students at UWB are encouraged to extend their knowledge of psychology to other fields of study and social contexts. While some students go on to pursue graduate study in clinical/counseling, developmental, social/community psychology, or social work, others use psychological perspectives to inform their work in community development, health care, policy work, media and communications, business, education, and other fields.
14-15 credits of Prerequisites, min 2.0 grade if taken at the University of Washington
The major introduces students to a range of domains, perspectives and questions of human experience, along with opportunities for exploring them through independent or collaborative research, social action, and/or critical reflection. Students are encouraged to evaluate how we come to understand human behavior and psychological processes, and to formulate critical questions about the field of psychology itself, including issues of power and human diversity. Students at UWB are encouraged to extend their knowledge of psychology to other fields of study and social contexts. While some students go on to pursue graduate study in clinical/counseling, developmental, social/community psychology, or social work, others use psychological perspectives to inform their work in community development, health care, policy work, media and communications, business, education, and other fields.
*Total: 70 Credits
School of IAS Requirements & Policies
American and Ethnic Studies (AES) investigates the social forces, political institutions, and cultural productions that have created the United States and shaped what it means to be an "American." AES students develop a critical understanding of the categories that have shaped the emergence and reproduction of systems of power defined in relation to national citizenship. With diverse and intersecting categories of race, place, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, class, nationality, and ability, AES educates students in historical and social inquiry, textual analysis and interpretation, and critical theory and practice.
BIS 216 Introduction to Cultural Studies
BIS 255 Critical Diversity Studies
BIS 256 Introduction to African American Studies
BIS 257 Introduction to Asian American Studies
BIS 258 Introduction to United States Latina/Latino Studies
BIS 265 Introduction to Comparative Ethnic Studies
Students in good academic standing may declare this major at any time.
American and Ethnic Studies (AES) investigates the social forces, political institutions, and cultural productions that have created the United States and shaped what it means to be an "American." AES students develop a critical understanding of the categories that have shaped the emergence and reproduction of systems of power defined in relation to national citizenship. With diverse and intersecting categories of race, place, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, class, nationality, and ability, AES educates students in historical and social inquiry, textual analysis and interpretation, and critical theory and practice.
Total = 70 credits
School of IAS Requirements & Policies
Bachelor of Science in Conservation and Restoration Science (CRS) prepares students to address environmental challenges facing the world today. Students develop the depth of scientific understanding, interdisciplinary perspectives, and creative problem-solving skills needed to design and bring about solutions to these problems at local, regional, and global scales. Through Community-Based projects ranging from wetlands restoration and conservation planning to analyses of regional air and water pollution, students gain practical experience and make a positive difference while they are still in school. Graduates are prepared for future research, practical experiences, and graduate education in various environmental fields.
Students in good academic standing may declare this major at any time.
Total = 96 Credits for BS in CRS
BS in CRS Requirements and Polices
The Culture, Literature, and the Arts major inquires into the make-up of diverse cultures and societies, and their literatures and arts. Students in the major study written and visual texts, interactive and performative modes of practice, and philosophical and theoretical accounts of those texts and practices. They gain an understanding of the complex relations among lived, represented, and speculated existence. CLA courses focus on the historical, social, and aesthetic dimensions of literature and arts, with special attention to the intersections among gender, sexuality, race, ethnicity, class, disability, and other vectors of power and privilege.
Students in good academic standing may declare this major at any time.
The Culture, Literature, and the Arts major inquires into the make-up of diverse cultures and societies, and their literatures and arts. Students in the major study written and visual texts, interactive and performative modes of practice, and philosophical and theoretical accounts of those texts and practices. They gain an understanding of the complex relations among lived, represented, and speculated existence. CLA courses focus on the historical, social, and aesthetic dimensions of literature and arts, with special attention to the intersections among gender, sexuality, race, ethnicity, class, disability, and other vectors of power and privilege.
Total: 70 Credits
School of IAS Requirements & Policies
CLA majors graduate with an ability to pursue inquiry across a broad range of endeavors and to become engaged, reflective, and productive global citizens. The major is excellent for careers that demand strong written and verbal communication capabilities, such as law, publishing, public relations, journalism, web content production, museum and bookstore management, and teaching. CLA majors may also advance their studies by pursuing graduate degrees in a range of disciplinary and interdisciplinary fields that engage the humanities. More information about career possibilities or pursuing graduate school on our web site.
Students in Data Visualization will enter the workforce with the ability to identify trends, provide insights, and illustrate the societal impacts of different forms of data while critically engaging with data visualization software and programming languages. Data Visualization emphasizes fundamental elements of database management, data analysis and visualization, information systems, and quantitative and qualitative analysis.
A minimum of a 2.0 grade if completed at the University of Washington
A student with a Bachelor of Arts in Data Visualization may enter the variety of academic and career fields focused on data analysis and visualization, including statistics, visual analytics, and geographic information systems and sciences. A Bachelor of Arts in Data Visualization emphasizes fundamental elements of database management, data analysis and visualization, information systems, and quantitative and qualitative analysis.
In Addition to Data Visualization program prerequisites, the following prerequisites require A minimum of a 2.0 grade if completed at the University of Washington
Total BA Credits=75 Credits
Total BS Credits= 90 Credits
School of IAS Requirements & Policies
Total: 75 credits
A student with a Bachelor of Science in Data Visualization will enter into the wide variety of academic and career fields focused on data analysis and visualization, including statistics, visual analytics, and geographic information systems and sciences. A Bachelor of Science in Data Visualization degree emphasizes fundamental elements of data science, visualization, and analytics, advanced research, advanced graduate programs, or other data programing and geographic information systems and sciences programs and careers.
In Addition to Data Visualization program prerequisites, the following prerequisites require A minimum of a 2.0 grade if completed at the University of Washington
Total BA Credits=75 Credits
Total BS Credits= 90 Credits
School of IAS Requirements & Policies
Total= 90 Credits
Earth System Science (ESS) applies systems thinking and multiple science disciplines, including the classic fields of Geology, Oceanography, Atmospheric Science, and Environmental Science, to understanding complex phenomena in Earth’s physical systems. Educational and research programs that take this unified approach emphasize the processes and interactions within the Earth system and the connections between natural and human systems.
If students are interested in exploring this major, please consider taking one of the courses below. Any of these selections will help familiarize you with the academic program and prepare you for advanced coursework in the major.
School of IAS Admission Requirements:
Applicants applying to an Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences major with 80 or more credits:
• 3 years high school math (2 years algebra) or Intermediate Algebra in college. Minimum grade of 2.0 if taken in college
• 2 years (high school) OR 10 quarter credits (college) of a single foreign language or through 102 with a passing grade
• English Composition (10 quarter credits)
• Reasoning (5 quarter credits in Math or Logic). Does not apply to students who enrolled in college for the first time prior to Autumn Quarter, 1985
• 15 quarter credits in Natural Sciences (NSc)
• 15 quarter credits in Arts & Humanities (A&H)
• 15 quarter credits in Social Sciences (SSc)
Applicants applying to an Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences major with 45-79 credits:
3 years high school math (2 years algebra) or Intermediate Algebra in college. Minimum grade of 2.0 if taken in college
• 2 years (high school) OR 10 quarter credits (college) of a single foreign language or through 102 with a passing grade
• English Composition (5 credits): BWRIT 134 or equivalent
• Reasoning (5 quarter credits in Math or Logic). Does not apply to students who enrolled in college for the first time prior to Autumn Quarter, 1985
• 10 quarter credits in Natural Sciences (NSc)
• 10 quarter credits in Arst & Humanities
• 10 quarter credits in Social Sciences (SSc)
Degree Admission Requirements:
NOTE: A total of 35-38 credits in this bin will be taken due to an additional 5 credits in this bin being a prerequisite for entry to the degree program
• Writing “W” Course (minimum 10 credits)
• Diversity “DIV” Course (minimum 3 credits)
• Areas of Inquiry: 15 credits required in each area. Natural Science (NSc) and Social Sciences (SSc) may be completed through major requirements. Please plan to take 15 Credits of Arts & Humanities (A&H) courses.
Total Credits: 99-103 credits (not including 15 credits of Admission Requirements)
The ESS degree program is jointly administered by the School of Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences (IAS) and the School of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) with teaching and research contributions from faculty members in both schools.
For specific course information for academic planning, please visit the ESS major webpage: https://www.uwb.edu/ias/undergraduate/majors/earth-system-science#requirements
The Environmental Studies (ENST) major is designed for students who want to act critically and creatively in response to the environmental challenges facing the world today. ENST teaches students to integrate environmental knowledge across the natural and social sciences, as well as the arts and humanities. Hands-on learning, field experiences, and problem-based instruction focus on finding answers to complex problems that include scientific, social, political, cultural, and ethical dimensions. ENST BA graduates develop careers in management, planning, advocacy, communications, and policy-making across a wide array of for-profit and not-for-profit organizations. Students are prepared for graduate school in various degree programs including policy studies, environmental law, education, and other environmental areas.
Students in good academic standing may declare this major at any time.
The Environmental Studies (ENST) major is designed for students who want to act critically and creatively in response to the environmental challenges facing the world today. ENST teaches students to integrate environmental knowledge across the natural and social sciences, as well as the arts and humanities. Hands-on learning, field experiences, and problem-based instruction focus on finding answers to complex problems that include scientific, social, political, cultural, and ethical dimensions. ENST BA graduates develop careers in management, planning, advocacy, communications, and policy-making across a wide array of for-profit and not-for-profit organizations. Students are prepared for graduate school in various degree programs including policy studies, environmental law, education, and other environmental areas.
Total = 70 Credits for BA in ENVST
School of IAS Requirements & Policies
Environmental Studies teaches students to integrate environmental knowledge across the natural and social sciences, as well as the arts and humanities. Hands-on learning, field experiences, and problem-based instruction focus on finding answers to complex problems that include scientific, social, political, cultural, and ethical dimensions.
Graduating Environmental Studies students develop careers in management, planning, advocacy, communications, and policy-making across a wide array of for-profit and not-for-profit organizations. They also pursue disciplinary and interdisciplinary graduate education in environmental fields that range across the arts, humanities, and social and natural sciences.
Gender, Women & Sexuality Studies (historically referred to as Women's Studies) is a cutting edge interdisciplinary field that examines social and political realities shaped by gender, sexuality, and power. We approach topics from transnational and intersectional perspectives, enabling students to analyze and address issues of gender, sexuality, and social difference at personal, historical, institutional, and structural levels. In our classes we study texts, histories, and experiences from the Global North and South, and examine gender and sexuality as they intersect with race, class, ethnicity, nation, ability, cisgender privilege and other forms of power. GWSS is devoted to generating and bringing visibility to many kinds of feminist knowledge production such as women of color feminism, transfeminism, queer feminism, feminist science and technology studies, and more. GWSS scholars therefore represent a wide range of disciplinary backgrounds, and conduct research in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and arts.
While there are no official prerequisites students choosing this major will find it especially helpful to have completed college coursework in feminist studies, history and culture, sociology, or literature. UW Bothell First-Year and Pre-Major students can take a Discovery Core course with GWSS Faculty to learn more about the GWSS Major.
Students in good academic standing may declare this major at any time.
Gender, Women & Sexuality Studies (GWSS) examines social and political realities shaped by gender, sexuality, and power. GWSS approaches topics from transnational and intersectional perspectives, enabling students to analyze and address issues of gender, sexuality, and social difference at personal, historical, institutional, and structural levels. GWSS is devoted to generating and bringing visibility to many kinds of feminist knowledge production such as women of color feminism, transfeminism, queer feminism, feminist science and technology studies, and more.
Total= 75 credits
School of IAS Requirements & Policies
** BIS 290 is highly recommended to be taken before BISGWS 301.**
** GWSS faculty HIGHLY recommend students take both BISGWS 302 & 303. If a student completes both BISGWS 302 and BISGWS 303, 5 credits from these courses can be applied toward the student's GWSS coursework requirement. **
Global Studies (GST) majors explore the cultural, political, and economic systems that bind people across the world. They gain the historical perspective needed to assess claims about “globalization,” and develop the critical and analytical skills necessary to understand the forces that shape our world. Global Studies emphasizes critical research skills, historical depth, and the use of a range of theories and frameworks. Those may include theories of representation, political economy, feminism, nationalism, human rights, social movements, critical development studies, and postcolonialism. Faculty who teach in GST work across a wide range of disciplinary and interdisciplinary fields, including history, anthropology, the arts, feminist studies, sociology, political economy, critical race studies, cultural and media studies, geography, environmental studies, and human rights. GST students learn to think critically about the history and practice of globalization through interpretation, empirical research, digital mapping and other forms of project-based learning.
BIS 165 Introduction to Ethnic Studies
BIS 181 Introduction to Sociology
BIS 216 Introduction to Cultural Studies
BIS 227 Rad Women in the Global South
BIS 282 Globalization
BIS 284 International Relations
Students in good academic standing may declare this major at any time.
Global Studies (GST) explores the cultural, political, and economic systems that bind people across the world. GST students gain the historical perspective needed to assess claims about “globalization,” and develop the critical and analytical skills necessary to understand the forces that shape our world. GST graduates work in international relations, non-governmental organizations, law, education, journalism, environmental justice, global health, business, policy and advocacy, and philanthropic organizations. GST students are also prepared for advanced study in geography, gender studies, anthropology, history, media and cultural studies, political science, and international studies.
BISGST 303 History and Globalization (5 credits)
Methods course (5 credits) select from an approved list. See the webpage for the approved list.
GST Courses (30 credits) select from an approved list. See the webpage for the approved list.
Additional IAS Coursework (20 credits): Select from any School of IAS prefix (BIS, BISSKL, BISAES, BISCLA, BES, BISGWS, BISIA, BISLEP, BISMCS, BISPSY, BISSTS, BISSTA)
Total: 70 Credits
School of IAS Requirements & Policies
Graduating GST students are particularly well-equipped to pursue professional careers in areas that are focused on the ways in which we globally interact today. These include international relations, non-governmental organizations, law, education, journalism, environmental justice, global health, business, policy and advocacy, and philanthropic organizations. GST students are also prepared for advanced study in geography, gender studies, anthropology, history, media and cultural studies, political science, and international studies.
Gives students the opportunity to develop expertise in areas spanning written, visual, performance, sound and video, digital, and publication arts as they respond to the constantly evolving world of contemporary arts practice. The IA major is built on the belief that meaningful contributions to art can be made by anyone from any class, ethnicity, race, nationality, gender, ability, and background. IA faculty implement critical and relevant thinking and practices in art in order to inspire students to push towards new engagements and achievements. The degree focuses on helping students to think in innovative and experimental ways while developing independent and collaborative projects that cultivate artistic skills. Coursework in the IA major includes a core class on interdisciplinary arts theory and practice (BISIA 319) and studio-based workshops. It enables students to develop strategies for artistic and social practice.
BIS 121 Introduction to Drawing
BIS 130 What Is Art
BIS 131 Introduction to Arts Practice
BIS 132 Introduction to Photography
BIS 207 Introduction to Creative Writing
Students in good academic standing may declare this major at any time.
Interdisciplinary Arts (IA) gives students the opportunity to develop expertise in areas spanning written, visual, performance, sound and video, internet, and publication arts as they respond to the constantly evolving world of contemporary arts practice. The IA major is built on the belief that advanced contributions to art can be made by anyone from any class, ethnicity, race, nationality, gender, and background. IA faculty implement the most current and relevant thinking and practices in art in order to inspire students to push towards new advancements and achievements.
•10 credits of Composition Coursework
•BISIA 319 Interdisciplinary Arts (5 credits)
•Art Studios and Art Workshops (IA:SW) (15 credits)- from a departmentally maintained list- see major webpage for list.
•IA Courses (20 credits)- from a departmentally maintained list- see major webpage for list.
•Additional IAS Coursework (20 credits): Select from any School of IAS prefix (BIS, BISSKL, BISAES, BISCLA, BES, BISGST, BISIA, BISLEP, BISMCS, BISPSY, BISSTS, BISSTA)
Total = 70 credits
School of IAS Requirements & Policies
Students in the IA major explore the many ways in which artists and their art publicly address complex cultural, philosophical and political phenomena. The curriculum emphasizes research-based art production, while addressing questions of media and genre as these are being transformed through current art practices. In each of these settings students gain production skills and develop their critical thinking, historical and aesthetic awareness, and cultural and digital literacy. Taught by faculty who are practicing artists with national and international public profiles, the curriculum actively engages in current discourses about embodiment and performance, conceptual and post-studio production, curation and installation, and spoken and material languages.
Students take classes in acting, collage, dance, drawing, experimental writing, improvisation, installation, internet art, painting, performance, photography, poetry, prose, public art, publishing, video, and hybrid and interdisciplinary arts.
Interdisciplinary Arts graduates become independent artists, build careers in arts and cultural industries as curators and administrators, and develop arts-based projects in a range of employment sectors, including health, media, and education. They are also prepared for graduate education in the arts and humanities, cultural studies, and are qualified to enter Master of Fine Arts programs.
Individualized Study is designed for highly-motivated students who want to create their own course of study. Students work closely with one or more faculty mentors in IAS or other programs at UWB as they shape a degree suited to their intellectual and professional interests and ambitions. Individualized Study allows students to create degree options in subjects ranging from science communication and environmental education to gender studies and digital arts. The resulting student-driven curriculum includes formal and informal meetings between students and their faculty mentors, along with a portfolio-based process of self-reflection on the learning as it evolves.
Applicants applying to an Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences major with 80 or more credits:
• 3 years high school math (2 years algebra) or Intermediate Algebra in college. Minimum grade of 2.0 if taken in college
• 2 years (high school) OR 10 quarter credits (college) of a single foreign language or through 102 with a passing grade
• English Composition (10 quarter credits)
• Reasoning (5 quarter credits in Math or Logic). Does not apply to students who enrolled in college for the first time prior to Autumn Quarter, 1985
• 15 quarter credits in Natural Sciences (NSc)
• 15 quarter credits in Arts & Humanities (A&H)
• 15 quarter credits in Social Sciences (SSc)
Applicants applying to an Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences major with 45-79 credits:
3 years high school math (2 years algebra) or Intermediate Algebra in college. Minimum grade of 2.0 if taken in college
• 2 years (high school) OR 10 quarter credits (college) of a single foreign language or through 102 with a passing grade
• English Composition (10 quarter credits)
• Reasoning (5 quarter credits in Math or Logic). Does not apply to students who enrolled in college for the first time prior to Autumn Quarter, 1985
• 10 quarter credits in Natural Sciences (NSc)
• 10 quarter credits in Arts & Humanities (A&H)
• 10 quarter credits in Social Sciences (SSc)
Students apply in their junior year after they have completed at least one quarter of coursework in IAS, including BIS 300.
The Interdisciplinary Studies (IDST) major is designed with two options for highly-motivated students who want to create their own course of study with either a social science focus or a special focus of the student's own making in consultation with faculty and advisers: Option 1: Interdisciplinary Studies: Social Science (IDST: SS). This option allows students to select from a range of social science course options to create a degree program that advances their academic career interests within the social sciences. Students choose courses that assist their development of social scientific research methods aimed at enhancing their knowledge production and problem-solving abilities. Graduating students in Option 1 are prepared to pursue careers or advanced study in a wide variety of fields, such as education, social work, public policy, law, and human resources.
Students interested in pursuing the Individualized Study option work with a faculty member to develop a substantive proposal. This proposal is then reviewed by a faculty oversight committee. Once approved, requirements vary from proposal to proposal.
Standard UW and IAS degree requirements including BIS 300, the portfolio capstone, and areas of knowledge, remain in effect, as they do for all other IAS degree options and majors, with a total of 180 credits required for graduation.
Graduating students develop careers and pursue graduate education in a wide variety of fields, depending on their chosen area of study. As important, they gain experience and document success in one of the crucial predictors of success in any of those fields: the ability to undertake a self-directed project in collaboration with others, to reflect critically on its development in process, and to complete it in a timely fashion.
Law, Economics & Public Policy (LEPP) major is designed for students who want to explore how legal institutions shape policy decisions and the political and economic contexts that influence the creation of the law. The degree provides a grounding in economics and political science as students learn to analyze legal and policy problems, alternatives, and consequences. LEPP curriculum combines theoretical analysis and practical experience through applied coursework and undergraduate research, community-based learning and academic internship opportunities, and the possibility of contributing to and working on the UW Bothell Policy Journal. Like all IAS degrees, LEPP emphasizes core capacities in critical and creative thinking, interdisciplinary research, collaboration and shared leadership, and writing and communication.
BIS 175 Introduction to American Government
BIS 200 Introduction to Microeconomics
BIS 226 Foundations of US Social Services
BIS 279 Introduction to Law & Society
BIS 282 Globalization
BIS 284 International Relations
Minimum 2.0 grade for each course required for admission
The Law, Economics & Public Policy (LEPP) major is designed for students who want to explore how legal, political and economic institutions and contexts shape policy formation and development and what the implications of those policies are for issues of social justice. The degree provides a grounding in law, economics and political science as students learn to analyze legal decisions, economic disparities, political movements, and policy problems, alternatives, and consequences. The LEPP curriculum combines theoretical analysis and practical experience through applied coursework and undergraduate research, community-based learning and academic internship opportunities. LEPP students build a powerful foundation for graduate school and law school, and careers with social service organizations, NGOs and nonprofits, and local, state, and federal government.
Total: 70 Credits
School of IAS Requirements & Policies
Students in LEPP build a powerful foundation for careers with non-governmental organizations, policy analysis think-tanks, and local, state, and federal government. LEPP graduates are prepared to undertake graduate study in law, policy studies, public policy, and management, among other fields.
The Media and Communication Studies (MCS) major prepares students to develop and hone skills as critical readers and practitioners that cross a range of disciplines and professional contexts. Those who graduate with an MCS major think critically about access, use, and control of communication and media on the local, national, and global level. The major combines hands-on production with a rich grounding in media and communication theory and history that focuses on power, difference, and injustice. MCS students develop the intellectual capacities and skills needed to use media and communication effectively and ethically. MCS coursework integrates theory and practice through media production workshops, classroom seminars, and community-based research projects.
BIS 161 Introduction to Film Narrative
BIS 178 Introduction to Communication
BIS 233 Participatory Media Culture
BIS 235 Critical Media Literacy
BIS 236 Introduction to Interactive Media
BIS 237 Public Speaking and Communication
BISMCS 234 Media and Communication Techniques
BISMCS 240 Working with Video
BISMCS 260 Working with Audio
Students in good academic standing may declare this major at any time.
The Media and Communication Studies (MCS) major prepares students to develop and hone skills as critical readers and practitioners that cross a range of disciplines and professional contexts. Those who graduate with an MCS major think critically about access, use, and control of communication and media on the local, national, and global level. The major combines hands-on production with a rich grounding in media and communication theory and history that focuses on power, difference, and injustice. MCS students develop the intellectual capacities and skills needed to use media and communication effectively and ethically. MCS coursework integrates theory and practice through media production workshops, classroom seminars, and community-based research projects.
* BIS 290 is highly recommended to be taken before the MCS Core Course.*
Total: 75 Credits
School of IAS Requirements & Policies
The major prepares students for careers in the media industries, including digital media production, journalism, writing, and strategic communication, as well as community organizing and social justice work. The MCS major also provides a strong foundation for students pursuing advanced degrees in Communication, Media Studies, Cultural Studies, and Media Production, among many other fields.
The Science, Technology & Society (STS) degree examines emerging technologies and scientific ideas within social and cultural contexts. We use methods and approaches from the humanities and social sciences to study issues like algorithm ethics, digital surveillance, artificial intelligence, biomedical practice, smart cities, public health, and global climate change. Students in STS develop applied skills in research, writing, critical analysis, and creative practice, with a particular attention to power and knowledge production.
BIS 115 Digital Cultures
BIS 232 Introduction to Data Visualization
BIS 242 Environmental Geography
BIS 245 Environment and Humanities
BIS 252 Politics of Science
Students in good academic standing may declare this major at any time.
The Science, Technology & Society (STS) degree examines emerging technologies and scientific ideas within social and cultural contexts. We use methods and approaches from the humanities and social sciences to study issues like algorithm ethics, digital surveillance, artificial intelligence, biomedical practice, smart cities, public health, and global climate change. Students in STS develop applied skills in research, writing, critical analysis, and creative practice, with a particular attention to power and knowledge production.
BISSTS 307 (5 credits)
Approaches to Data coursework (5 credits) select from an approved list. See the webpage for the approved list.
Additional IAS Coursework (20 credits at any level): Select from any School of IAS prefix (BIS, BISSKL, BISCLA, BES, BISGWS, BISGST, BISIA, BISLEP, BISMCS, BISPSY, BISAES, BISSTA)
Total: 70 Credits
School of IAS Requirements & Policies
STS students work with faculty members trained in disciplines ranging from biology and mathematics to political economy and philosophy. Housed in Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences, the major enables students to develop their skills in scientific and technological research along with their capacities for critical, creative, and ethical reflection. Students leave the program with the capacity to make informed decisions about the responsible use of science and technology -- as professionals and citizens.
Graduating STS students are prepared for careers with a wide variety of for-profit, not-for-profit, and governmental organizations that analyze, produce, and use scientific and technical knowledge. These careers include planning and administration, public and investor relations, and advocacy and communications, among other areas. STS students also pursue graduate and professional education in such fields as law, education, policy studies, and media and cultural studies.
The Minor in Creative Writing enables students to explore and engage diverse creative writing practices and to develop artistic, critical and conceptual competence in an interdisciplinary context.
Students in good academic standing with a declared major may declare this minor at any time.
The Minor in Creative Writing enables students to explore and engage diverse creative writing practices and to develop artistic, critical and conceptual competence in an interdisciplinary context.
Core (5 credits)
• BISIA 319 Interdisciplinary Arts
20 Credits of courses in the area of Creative Writing Coursework
Students are required to take at least 15 credits at the 300 or 400 level
•See the Creative Writing Minor website for list of courses
No more than 10 credits from the Creative Writing Minor can be applied to a student’s major requirements.
The Minor in Diversity Studies is an option for students who want to explore key concepts related to power, identity, and difference, and to understand how historical and structural relations of power and difference shape social relations.
Any undergraduate student who is declared in a major may declare a minor.
The Diversity Minor is intended to acquaint students with a broad and introductory understanding of human diversity, domestic and abroad. Upon completion of the minor, students should have foundational knowledge of socially constructed identities, including race, class, gender, sexuality, disability, age, ethnicity, and nationality.
• 5 credits: B EDUC 255/BIS 255: Critical Diversity Studies
• 5 credits: Course satisfying the University of Washington’s Diversity (DIV) Requirement
• 15 credits: Upper Division Diversity Studies Minor Electives- See website for approved list of courses.
No more than 10 credits from the Diversity Studies Minor can be applied to a student’s major requirements. Minimum 15 credits taken in residence at UW Bothell.
The minor in Ecological Restoration (ER) prepares students to address the complex relationships of human communities and ecological sustainability. ER minor is a tri-campus initiative (UW Bothell, UW Seattle, and UW Tacoma). Students may, but are not required to, take courses from more than one campus in order to earn the minor.
The minor in Ecological Restoration (ER) prepares students to address the complex relationships of human communities and ecological sustainability. ER minor is a tri-campus initiative (UW Bothell, UW Seattle, and UW Tacoma). Students may, but are not required to, take courses from more than one campus in order to earn the minor.
1. Introductory course in restoration ecology (5 credits)
2. UW-REN capstone course sequence in ecological restoration (10 credits)
3. Restoration related courses (10 credits)
Students must complete at least 15 credits of the minor at their home campus. Also, no more than 10 credits from the Ecological Restoration Minor can be applied to a student's major requirements. Students pursuing the BS in Science are not eligible to complete the Ecological Restoration Minor.
The minor in Gender, Women & Sexuality Studies (GWSS) positions students to examine social, political, and cultural realities shaped by gender, sexuality, and power. GWSS approaches topics from transnational and intersectional perspectives, enabling students to analyze and address issues of gender, sexuality, and social difference at personal, historical, institutional, and structural levels.
Students in good academic standing may declare this minor at any time.
The minor in Gender, Women & Sexuality Studies (GWSS) positions students to examine social, political, and cultural realities shaped by gender, sexuality, and power. GWSS approaches topics from transnational and intersectional perspectives, enabling students to analyze and address issues of gender, sexuality, and social difference at personal, historical, institutional, and structural levels.
School of IAS Requirements & Policies
The Minor in Human Rights is an option for students who are interested in the rapidly emerging field of human rights. The minor is a tri-campus initiative (UW Bothell, UW Seattle, and UW Tacoma). Students may, but are not required to, take courses from more than one campus in order to earn the minor.
The minor in Performance enables students to explore and engage diverse performing arts practices and to develop artistic and conceptual competence in an interdisciplinary context.
Students in good academic standing with a declared major may declare this minor at any time.
The minor in Performing Arts (PA) enables students to explore and engage diverse performing arts practices and to develop artistic and conceptual competence in an interdisciplinary context.
Core ( 5 Credits)
• BISIA 319 Interdisciplinary Arts
Additional Performance Coursework (20 credits): A minimum of 10 credits of Performance coursework must be completed at the 300-400 level.
•See the Performance Minor website for list of courses
No more than 10 credits from the Performance Minor can be applied to a student’s major requirements.
The Policy Studies minor is designed to provide students with the analytical foundations they will need to understand policy formation, implementation, and evaluation.
Students in good academic standing with a declared major may declare this minor at any time.
The most pressing issues of our time, from global climate change to digital surveillance, are at once social and scientific, political and technological. The Science, Technology & Society minor explores these integral relationships, situating emerging technologies and scientific ideas within their complex histories and social politics. Students in STS work with faculty members trained in a range of disciplines from psychology and biology to geography and media studies. They develop skills in applied scientific and technical research as well as capacities for critical, creative, and ethical reflection, examining the relationship between power and knowledge production in science and technology contexts.
The most pressing issues of our time, from global climate change to digital surveillance, are at once social and scientific, political and technological. The Science, Technology & Society minor explores these integral relationships, situating emerging technologies and scientific ideas within their complex histories and social politics. Students in STS work with faculty members trained in a range of disciplines from psychology and biology to geography and media studies. They develop skills in applied scientific and technical research as well as capacities for critical, creative, and ethical reflection, examining the relationship between power and knowledge production in science and technology contexts.
Core Courses (10 credits)
Methods (5 credits): Take one of the following courses.
Science, Technology, and Society courses (10 credits total): selected from an approved list. See the webpage for the approved list.
Total: 25 credits
Students must earn a minimum cumulative 2.0 GPA for courses applied to the minor.
A minimum of 15 credits applied to the minor must be completed in residence at UW Bothell.
For specific course lists information, please visit the minor webpage:https://www.uwb.edu/ias/undergraduate/minors/science-technology-society
The Minor in Visual & Media Arts enables students to explore and engage diverse visual and media arts practices and to develop artistic, critical and conceptual competence in an interdisciplinary context.
Students in good academic standing with a declared major may declare this minor at any time.
The Minor in Visual & Media Arts enables students to explore and engage diverse visual and media arts practices and to develop artistic, critical and conceptual competence in an interdisciplinary context.
The Minor in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is designed for students who are interested in the rapidly expanding field of geo-technologies and geo-techniques, and learning how to apply them to solve complex socio-environmental problems.
Students must earn a minimum cumulative 2.0 GPA for courses applied to the minor.
A minimum of 15 credits applied to the minor must be completed in residence at UW Bothell.
Students are required to take at least 15 credits at the 300-400 level coursework out of 25 credits.
The Master of Arts in Policy Studies is a community of people who believe policy can make a difference, promote the public good, and advance social equity. It offers an integrated, interdisciplinary approach to the study and practice of contemporary policymaking. Students learn rigorous policy analysis and research skills, and a thorough understanding of the policymaking process. They also develop the professional competencies in management, leadership, strategic planning, and program evaluation essential to working effectively with diverse groups for sustainable social change. The Policy Studies program prepares students for a variety of careers involving policy analysis, research, community development, public service, democracy building, consulting and social problem solving. Policy Studies alumni act as leaders and change makers regionally, nationally and internationally in public, private, and non-profit organizations. The Policy Studies learning community is cohort-based. Students enter with diverse academic, professional, and personal backgrounds and a range of policy interests and commitments. Evening classes are designed for working professionals, recent graduates, and returning students. Through a scaffolded curriculum of core classes, a community-based practicum experience, and a capstone project, students acquire the depth of knowledge, practical experiences, and sophisticated professional skills critical to their success as future leaders.
Please see this program's Graduate Admissions Page for specific requirements.
48 credits
The Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing & Poetics is dedicated to helping each student develop their creative work through a course of study that encourages exploration and discovery. We organize our curriculum into areas of inquiry rather than genres, so students enjoy the freedom to experiment across genres and media as suits their creative purposes. Our program invites students to participate in a community concerned with the pursuit of creative writing in a rapidly changing society. In the first year, students participate in a sequence of paired workshops and poetics seminars. Workshops and seminars explore the central question of poetics: why do we write how we write? The sequence explores diverse genres and writing practices in relation to social and cultural change; relationships between fact and imagination; generative research methods; and processes of thinking and memory in relation to technologies and media. The second year is thesis-intensive, focused on the development and completion of independent creative work, in or across the genre(s), forms(s) or media of your choosing, together with a poetics statement that situates you and your individual artistic practice. A Thesis Practicum provides students with mentored opportunities to practice presenting or performing artistic work in progress, submitting for publication, or interning at local arts and educational organizations, in accordance with their individual goals. The second year can be completed part-time or full-time, in residency or nonresidency. Each academic year, kicks off with a Fall Convergence, a gathering of nationally and internationally renowned writers and artists to engage topics in contemporary poetics. The year closes with the Spring Festival, where graduating students share their thesis work publicly and receive a benedictory reading from a student-nominated invited speaker.
51 credits