For new program’s grads, opportunities are endless (and handpicked)

One of Augusta University’s newest degree programs, the Bachelor of Arts in Integrated Studies, is set to graduate its first students during Friday’s Spring Commencement ceremony.

Housed in the Katherine Reese Pamplin College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, the degree is an interdisciplinary program is designed to help students to build and customize their academic paths to fit career goals or lifelong passions not currently covered by a set degree program.

Dr. William Hatcher, director of the Integrated Studies program, said that, although the four students will graduate Friday with the same degree, their paths after graduation will be vastly different.

“One of the graduating students completed coursework in information technology, political science and public administration, and is on his way toward advancing a career in information security by applying to the Master of Arts in Intelligence and Security Studies program,” Hatcher said.

Another student combined coursework in nonprofit management and filmmaking and has plans to run his own production company to help nonprofits. The remaining two students blended education, psychology, sociology and social work courses to advance their career paths.

Hatcher said the Integrated Studies program opens new doors at the university that were previously closed to students seeking a traditional degree path. He also said the need for such programs has never been greater.

“The modern economy is dominated by people who work with ideas and synthesize knowledge,” he said. “The degree in Integrated Studies allows students to learn from multiple fields to work in the modern, creative economy.”

The four students graduating from the program will join their fellow graduates at the university’s Spring Commencement ceremony on Friday, May 11 at 2 p.m. in the James Brown Arena.

For stories, shoutouts and updates about Augusta University’s spring 2018 Spring Commencement, or to share your stories with us, be sure to follow us on social media using the hashtag #AUGGRAD.