Courses

The HonorsX program offers three required courses (9 units): UNVS 120, UNVS 121, and UNVS 122.

Each HonorsX course emphasizes cross-disciplinary, integrative approaches to problem-solving, intervening in vital social issues with an eye to the future. Each is co-taught by expert faculty from different disciplines.

• UNVS 120: Conceptualizing Complex Problems - 3 units

  • Introduction to the topic of "Developing Sustainable Societies." Student teams articulate the basic definition of the problem and explore multiple dimensions available for addressing it.

• UNVS 121: Social Problems Topics - 3 units

  • Students learn research methodologies and develop disciplinary expertise on sustainability.

    Must be taken after UNVS 120.

• UNVS 122: Steps in Real-World Problem Solving - 3 units

  • Student teams work in-depth on group projects. Final projects may propose advocacy campaigns, policy changes, new tools, or other types of solutions. Final public presentation to campus and community.

    Must be taken after UNVS 121.

How to earn a minor in Interdisciplinary Studies?

• Students may take elective courses (6 units) in addition to the three required HonorsX courses to earn an interdisciplinary minor.

  • Complete a total of 6 units of the following:

    - Any Major requirement related to sustainability (3 units)*
    - Any GE or Elective course related to sustainability (3 units)
    - Internship, Research, or Practicum (up to 6 units)
    - Independent Study with Faculty (3 units)
    - UNVS 101 - Leadership and Career Accelerator (3 units)
    - UNVS 123 - HonorsX Explorations (3 units)
    - UNVS 124 - HonorsX Research/Practicum (3 units)

    * Any one course from your major requirements relating to the HonorsX topic can double-count for the Interdisciplinary Minor. Per University Policy S16-4, to be awarded a minor, at least 12 units of coursework must be completely distinct and separate from the coursework in the major.

    Contact our team to learn more.