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An Interdisciplinary Social Science undergraduate degree differs from fields like architecture or accounting by not preparing students for one specific career path. Instead, ISS equips graduates with versatile skills applicable across various employment sectors. The program's diverse curriculum and practical focus on contemporary issues empower ISS graduates to apply their knowledge and abilities to meaningful careers. Interdisciplinary approaches have gained significant recognition in recent decades, evidenced by a dramatic increase in interdisciplinary degrees awarded—over 400% growth from 1973 to 2005 per National Center of Educational Statistics data. This trend mirrors changes in research funding priorities, which increasingly support cross-disciplinary teamwork rather than single-discipline projects.
Drawing insights from multiple disciplines is driving a fundamental change in perspective—from narrow, linear cause-and-effect thinking to comprehensive, systems-based understanding. ISS embraces this expansive worldview to address today's most urgent challenges, acknowledging both the intricate web of factors behind social issues and the multifaceted solutions required to resolve them.
Freshman admission is a holistic and selective process, and no single criterion guarantees admission. Rather, we consider all the documentation you submit, and we carefully review your academic record and test scores to ensure that you are prepared for the rigorous curriculum you will encounter at Florida State University.
The courses listed below represent the minimum required for admission consideration:
4 English courses, at least three with substantial writing requirements
4 mathematics courses at the Algebra I level and higher
3 natural science courses, at least two with laboratory experience
3 social science courses
2 sequential courses of a world language or American Sign Language
2 elective courses, preferably in the above subject areas
The following are the minimum scores required for admission to the University, although some departments require higher scores at the graduate level:
Internet based TOEFL (IBTOEFL): 80
Paper based TOEFL (TOEFL): 550
International English Language Testing System (Academic IELTS): 6.5
Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB): 77
Pearson Test of English (PTE): 55