Careers for Interdisciplinary Studies Students
IDS Career Hub
Discover the endless career possibilities with your interdisciplinary degree. From emerging fields to traditional industries, your unique combination of skills opens doors to diverse and dynamic career pathways.
Explore Career Topics
Why IDS Graduates Are In Demand
Career opportunities for Interdisciplinary Studies graduates are as expansive and diverse as the hundreds of degree options available within the major. Your knowledge, skills, and practical experiences can be applied across industries and businesses in fields from public service and education to healthcare, arts administration, and emerging technology sectors.
IDS graduates are uniquely prepared for careers that require "wearing multiple hats," making them ideal for smaller employers, non-profits, and dynamic organizations. You can also customize your studies to bring emerging skills into new and growing industries like cybersecurity, sustainability, health informatics, and digital media.
Key Skills Employers Value
Critical Thinking
Adaptability
Cross-Disciplinary Problem Solving
Communication Skills
Cultural Competency
Systems Thinking
From Concentrations to Careers
Discover how different concentration combinations connect to specific career paths and industries. Your unique degree combination creates opportunities that traditional majors simply can't offer.
Business & Entrepreneurship
Develop essential skills in broad areas of business including accounting, marketing, real estate, and human resources management. Perfect for launching businesses, growing existing enterprises, and preparing for leadership roles.
Creative Arts & Culture
Gain understanding of human expression and cultural contexts while developing professional competencies in creative fields. Skills applicable in traditional arts careers and in education, marketing, public relations, and business.
Community & Social Change
Expand understanding of human behavior, societies, and cultures while developing expertise in justice, community organizing, and social change. Perfect for government, non-profits, and advocacy organizations.
- Racial and Intersectional Justice Studies
- Sociology
- Applied Behavior Analysis
- Ethnic Studies
- Women's & Gender Studies
Health & Human Services
Gain experience and knowledge in human fitness, wellness, public health, and healthcare delivery. Opportunities in healthcare administration, community outreach, and health education.
Science & Technology
Cultivate knowledge in environmental studies, data science, natural resources, and technology to tackle complex global challenges and emerging tech fields.
Career Examples by Industry
Here are specific job titles and career paths that IDS graduates can successfully pursue across various industries.
Arts & Media
- Art Director
- Interior Designer
- Technical Writer
- Set and Exhibit Designer
- Media Programming Director
- Special Effects Artist
Business & Finance
- Public Relations Specialist
- Human Resources Specialist
- Securities Sales Agent
- Actuary
- Social Media Specialist
- Sales Engineer
Community & Government
- Community Service Manager
- Public Health Educator
- Community Activist/Organizer
- Government Relations
- Political Advocacy/Lobbying
- Probation/Parole Officer
Healthcare & Sciences
- Health Services Administrator
- Climate Change Analyst
- Dietician/Nutritionist
- Forensic Science Technician
- Exercise Physiologist
- Community Health Worker
Technology & Data
- Web Developer
- Data Analyst
- Information Security Analyst
- UX/UI Designer
- Digital Marketing Specialist
- Systems Analyst
Social Services
- Counselor
- Social Services Manager
- Program Coordinator
- Victim Advocate
- Mental Health Specialist
- Nonprofit Administrator
IDS 321: Career Pathways in Interdisciplinary Studies
Take our specialized 1-credit career readiness seminar designed specifically for IDS students. This 8-week online course, offered in collaboration with Career & Professional Development, helps you explore career possibilities, develop professional skills, and prepare for the job market or graduate studies. Available to IDS juniors and seniors each fall semester.
Career Resources & Support
Access comprehensive resources to launch your career, from resume building to job search strategies specifically designed for interdisciplinary graduates.
Southern Career Services
IDS Specific Resources
Industry Research
Specialized Fields
- Careers in Aging
- Healthcare Administration
- Environmental Consulting
- Digital Media & UX Design
Career Questions?
IDS Team: idsinfo@southernct.edu | (203) 392-8113
Career Services: Schedule an appointment
We're here to help you explore and achieve your career goals!