Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies (M.S.I.S.) Major in Interdisciplinary Studies

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies (M.S.I.S.) degree with a major in Interdisciplinary Studies is coordinated through the Department of Organization, Workforce, and Leadership Studies (OWLS). The interdisciplinary studies degree program draws courses from other departments offering graduate-level work. The interdisciplinary studies degree is highly individualized and is designed to provide the adult with various course options. Further information may be obtained by contacting the program chair of the OWLS Department, referencing the “interdisciplinary studies” section of this catalog, or the OWLS Department website at http://www.owls.txstate.edu/.

Application Requirements

Application requirements consist of institutional and program requirements for applicable semesters of entry during the current academic year. Additional information and changes to admission requirements for semesters other than the current academic year can be found on The Graduate College's website.

Unless otherwise noted on The Graduate College program page, AI tools can only be used to correct spelling and grammar errors in application materials.

Institutional Requirements

Institutional requirements are the minimum standards for admission to any graduate program at Texas State. These include:

  • Completed online application
  • Nonrefundable application fee
    • Degree Programs (Doctoral and Master’s)
      • $55 fee, or
      • $90 for applications with international credentials
    • Post-Baccalaureate Programs (Certificate, Certification, Non-Degree, and Visiting)
      • $20 fee, or
      • $60 for applications with international credentials
  • Official transcripts from each institution where course credit was granted. Final transcripts showing degree completion are required before the student may register for their second term of enrollment. 
  • GPA requirements (a higher GPA may be listed in the Program Requirements)
    • Doctoral programs require a 3.00 overall GPA or a 3.00 GPA in your last 60 hours of undergraduate course work (plus any completed graduate courses).
    • Master’s and Specialist programs require a 2.75 overall GPA or a 2.75 GPA in your last 60 hours of undergraduate course work (plus any completed graduate courses).
    • Post-Baccalaureate programs require a 2.50 overall GPA or a 2.50 GPA in your last 60 hours of undergraduate course work (plus any completed graduate courses).
  • Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited university. (Non-U.S. degrees must be equivalent to a four-year U.S. Bachelor’s degree. In most cases, three-year degrees are not considered. Visit our International FAQs for more information.)

Approved English Proficiency Exam Scores

Applicants are required to submit an approved English proficiency exam score that meets the minimum requirements below unless they have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or the equivalent from a country on our exempt countries list. Some programs may restrict acceptable tests or require higher scores than the institutional scores; this will be noted in the Program Requirements.

  • official TOEFL iBT scores required with a 78 overall if taken on or before January 21, 2026
  • official TOEFL iBT scores required with a 4 overall if taken after January 21, 2026
  • official PTE scores required with a 52 overall
  • official IELTS (academic) scores required with a 6.5 overall and minimum individual module scores of 6.0
  • official Duolingo scores required with a 110 overall
  • official TOEFL Essentials scores required with an 8.5 overall
  • official Texas State Intensive English Program score of 90% or higher in the highest-level course (level 5)

The institution does not offer admission if the scores above are not met.

Application Requirements

Application requirements consist of institutional and program requirements for applicable semesters of entry during the current academic year. Additional information and changes to admission requirements for semesters other than the current academic year can be found on The Graduate College's website.

Unless otherwise noted on The Graduate College program page, AI tools can only be used to correct spelling and grammar errors in application materials.

Institutional Requirements

Institutional requirements are the minimum standards for admission to any graduate program at Texas State. These include:

  • Completed online application
  • Nonrefundable application fee
    • Degree Programs (Doctoral and Master’s)
      • $55 fee, or
      • $90 for applications with international credentials
    • Post-Baccalaureate Programs (Certificate, Certification, Non-Degree, and Visiting)
      • $20 fee, or
      • $60 for applications with international credentials
  • Official transcripts from each institution where course credit was granted. Final transcripts showing degree completion are required before the student may register for their second term of enrollment. 
  • GPA requirements (a higher GPA may be listed in the Program Requirements)
    • Doctoral programs require a 3.00 overall GPA or a 3.00 GPA in your last 60 hours of undergraduate course work (plus any completed graduate courses).
    • Master’s and Specialist programs require a 2.75 overall GPA or a 2.75 GPA in your last 60 hours of undergraduate course work (plus any completed graduate courses).
    • Post-Baccalaureate programs require a 2.50 overall GPA or a 2.50 GPA in your last 60 hours of undergraduate course work (plus any completed graduate courses).
  • Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited university. (Non-U.S. degrees must be equivalent to a four-year U.S. Bachelor’s degree. In most cases, three-year degrees are not considered. Visit our International FAQs for more information.)

Approved English Proficiency Exam Scores

Applicants are required to submit an approved English proficiency exam score that meets the minimum requirements below unless they have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or the equivalent from a country on our exempt countries list. Some programs may restrict acceptable tests or require higher scores than the institutional scores; this will be noted in the Program Requirements.

  • official TOEFL iBT scores required with a 78 overall if taken on or before January 21, 2026
  • official TOEFL iBT scores required with a 4 overall if taken after January 21, 2026
  • official PTE scores required with a 52 overall
  • official IELTS (academic) scores required with a 6.5 overall and minimum individual module scores of 6.0
  • official Duolingo scores required with a 110 overall
  • official TOEFL Essentials scores required with an 8.5 overall
  • official Texas State Intensive English Program score of 90% or higher in the highest-level course (level 5)

The institution does not offer admission if the scores above are not met.

 Program Requirements

  • GRE not required
  • statement of purpose outlining future direction
    • Texas State graduates from the BAAS program with a 3.0 or higher GPA may have the statement of purpose requirement waived

Approved English Proficiency Exam Scores

This program accepts the English Proficiency scores as listed in the Institutional Requirements but would require the following module scores for specific tests:

  • official TOEFL iBT scores required with a 78 overall if taken on or before January 21, 2026
    • 19 Listening
    • 19 reading
    • 19 Speaking
    • 18 Writing
  • official TOEFL iBT scores required with a 4 overall if taken after January 21, 2026
    • 4 Listening
    • 4 Reading
    • 4 Speaking
    • 4 Writing

Degree Requirements

The Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies (M.S.I.S.) degree with a major in Interdisciplinary Studies requires 39 semester credit hours, including the following to ensure interdisciplinary knowledge and perspectives:

  1. Four or more departments must be represented in coursework (represented by prefixes, so CTE and OCED represent two departments)
  2. Two or more colleges must be represented in coursework.

Please consult the advisor for selection and timing of courses.

Course Requirements

Foundations Module
CTE 5303Introduction to Organization, Workforce, and Leadership Studies3
CTE 5360Organization Development in the Workplace3
OCED 5362Leadership Theories and Application in Organizational Contexts 3
Interdisciplinary Academic Module18
Choose from 18 hours of advisor approved courses
Applied Research Module12
The courses in the Applied Research Module (ARM) are sequential, meaning the prior ARM course must be completed before moving to the next ARM course. You may take the ARM courses while taking other courses
Applied Interdisciplinary Research--Part 1 
Applied Interdisciplinary Research Methods--Part 2
Applied Interdisciplinary Research Part 3
Capstone in Organization, Workforce, and Leadership Studies
Total Hours39

Comprehensive Examination Requirement

The Department of OWLS requires both written responses and an oral defense to fulfill the comprehensive examination requirement. Please discuss the nature and repeatability of the comprehensive exam with your graduate program advisor. 

Master's level courses in Organization, Workforce, and Leadership Studies: CTEOCED

Courses Offered

Career and Technical Education (CTE)

CTE 5301. Technology of Teaching and Training.

This course examines research and theories related to educational technology and its role in teaching and training. Students analyze instructional design frameworks, models of learner interaction, and contemporary technologies used to support learning across diverse contexts. Emphasis is placed on evaluating tools, applying technology to instructional problems, and developing a professional plan for ongoing growth in educational technology. The course integrates practical activities, reflective analysis, and evidence‑based approaches to understanding how technology can support effective instruction.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

CTE 5303. Introduction to Organization, Workforce, and Leadership Studies.

This course introduces students to interdisciplinary frameworks used in organization, workforce, and leadership studies. Students examine multiple approaches for analyzing workplace issues, explore potential career paths, and develop an individualized plan of study that aligns with their academic and professional goals. The course provides structured practice in interdisciplinary reading, writing, and research, with an emphasis on using established tools such as research databases and organizational data sources. Students learn methods for integrating knowledge across fields while developing skills in academic communication, including APA style. Throughout the course, students will engage in activities that build a collaborative graduate learning environment and support their transition into advanced study. Prerequisite: Department approval.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

CTE 5306. Instructional Materials and Development.

This course examines principles and practices used to design, analyze, and evaluate instructional materials across education and training environments. Students explore needs assessment, task analysis, curriculum development models, and approaches for evaluating instructional tools in varied professional contexts. Emphasis is placed on applying research-supported methods to assess the effectiveness, organization, and alignment of instructional content. Through readings, applied assignments, and project-based work, students learn to identify instructional needs, develop materials responsive to those needs, and conduct systematic evaluations grounded in established instructional design frameworks.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

CTE 5312. Development, Organization, and Use of Instructional Material.

This course provides an in‑depth exploration of how to design, organize, and evaluate instructional materials that support effective learning in educational, organizational, and workforce settings. Students will examine evidence‑based approaches to selecting and sequencing content, designing learner‑centered lessons, and integrating diverse instructional resources and technologies. Emphasis is placed on applying the theories and principles for instructional design to create materials that enhance engagement, performance, and transfer of learning. Through hands‑on practice, students will learn to assess the quality, relevance, and impact of instructional materials and adapt them for varied learners, settings, and delivery modalities.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

CTE 5313L. Emergent Workplace Perspectives.

This course examines the emergent and evolving nature of the modern workplace. Students will explore topics related to interdisciplinary perspectives in the workplace such as inequality related to gender and race, workers' rights, knowledge, control, the role of technology, and globalization.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing|Topics
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

CTE 5314. Human Relations in the Workplace.

This course introduces students to human relations as a field of study with emphasis on how individuals understand themselves and interact with others in a variety of professional and educational settings. Students analyze theories of self-concept, personality, motivation, perception, emotions, and attitudes while applying research-based strategies for communication, conflict resolution, and collaboration. The course focuses on developing evidence-informed interpersonal competencies through applied learning opportunities, including case studies, reflective journaling activities, experience sharing on discussion boards, and practical skill applications.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

CTE 5315. Strategic Leadership and Capacity Development.

This course examines strategic leadership and capacity development in organizational and workforce settings. Students explore leadership frameworks related to strategic thinking, decision-making, and leadership effectiveness. Emphasis is placed on examining how leaders develop perspective, values, and approaches that shape leadership behavior and strategic action. Through readings, leadership assessments, case analysis, and applied activities, students analyze leadership challenges and evaluate strategies used to strengthen leadership capacity within individuals, teams, and organizations. Students also engage in reflective analysis to examine leadership perspective and development.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

CTE 5320. Effective Methods of Teaching and Training.

This course examines research‑informed methods for facilitating learning in educational, organizational, and workforce settings. Students explore instructional strategies that promote engagement, skill development, and knowledge transfer across various learner populations. Emphasis is placed on designing effective learning experiences, managing learning environments, and delivering effective instruction in face‑to‑face, digital, and/or hybrid modalities. Through applied practice in teaching or training, students will plan, deliver, facilitate, and evaluate instructional sessions that reflect principles of evidence‑based teaching and enhanced performance.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

CTE 5322. Teaching and Training as Professions.

This course examines the professional expectations, theoretical underpinnings, and contextual factors that shape teaching and training across a variety of educational and workplace settings. Students analyze teaching and learning theories and philosophical foundations that influence contemporary educational practices. While maintaining strong emphasis through the development of a literature review, the course also integrates applied learning experiences that connect research to real-world professional settings. Emphasis is placed on evaluating and synthesizing research, comparing multiple perspectives to authentic challenges in teaching and training environments.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

CTE 5323. Technology Applications.

This course explores practical information systems topics for managers, including online information resources, data tools, and current technology trends affecting public organizations. Students review federal and state web-based resources, examine social networking and related legal implications, and discuss smart technologies and cybersecurity. Course sessions include applied presentations and case study work on AI and data analysis strategies, including GIS. Students practice communicating findings and technology considerations in formats suitable for supervisory and stakeholder settings.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

CTE 5324. Human Performance in the Workplace.

This course examines human performance in workplace and organizational settings. Students explore frameworks used to analyze performance challenges and improve organizational effectiveness. Topics include performance analysis, organizational culture, teamwork, leadership, measurement of performance, and strategies for improving workplace systems. Through readings, case studies, and applied activities, students analyze factors that influence individual and organizational performance and evaluate approaches used to improve workplace outcomes. Emphasis is placed on understanding how performance improvement strategies can be applied to support effective work processes and organizational goals.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

CTE 5330. Applied Interdisciplinary Research--Part 1.

This course introduces students to interdisciplinary research with an emphasis on understanding and applying the research process in practical or professional contexts. Students learn about the selection of a research approach, review of the literature, writing strategies, and interpreting quantitative and qualitative research methods. Students will identify the logical connections among the research problem, purpose, questions, relevant literature, and design. In the course, students formulate a study problem, a purpose statement, and identify and analyze relevant literature. Prerequisite: CTE 5303 with a grade of "C" or better and Instructor approval and Department approval required.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

CTE 5332. Program Evaluation in the Workplace.

This course introduces students to the concepts, terminology, and guiding principles used in program evaluation within the workplace. Students examine the foundations and approaches to evaluation, logic models and program representation, implementing and interpreting findings from evaluation, and using data to inform and refine changes to programs. Through readings and critical thinking, students develop foundational knowledge of program evaluation, and in an applied learning project, students develop a formal program evaluation proposal for an existing workplace program.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

CTE 5360. Organization Development in the Workplace.

This course explores organization development (OD) as a discipline focused on improving effectiveness at individual, team, and organizational levels. Students examine OD history, foundational theories, diagnostic tools, and intervention techniques. The course emphasizes developing analytical skills applicable to various workplace contexts and understanding how internal or external OD practitioners support evidence-based change. Practical learning components allow students to analyze scenarios, evaluate readiness for change, and consider ethical implications in OD practice across varied organizational environments.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

CTE 5382. Program Evaluation Methods in STEM Community Contexts.

This course introduces graduate students to methodological approaches used in community‑based program evaluation within STEM education contexts. Students examine frameworks for participatory and context‑responsive evaluation and apply data collection and analysis techniques with a local organizational partner. The course emphasizes research design, evaluation planning, and documentation of findings for external stakeholders. Through guided field engagement, students gain practical experience working with community organizations while developing the skills necessary to produce structured evaluation reports grounded in empirical evidence and established evaluation methods.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

CTE 5390. Independent Study in Career and Technical Education.

This course provides an individualized study experience focused on topics within Career and Technical Education (CTE) or Organization Development. Students work independently under the guidance of a faculty member to investigate a selected subject area, engage with relevant scholarly or professional literature, and complete academic or applied projects suitable to the chosen emphasis. The course supports students in developing deeper knowledge, research skills, and professional competencies within related fields. Learning activities, project parameters, and assessment criteria are established collaboratively with the supervising faculty member. This course may be repeated for credit when topics differ. Prerequisite: Department approval.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Occupational Education (OCED)

OCED 5101. Instructional Skill Development.

This course introduces graduate assistants to foundational instructional practices used in Organization Development, Career, and Technology Education settings. Students examine teaching strategies, lesson planning methods, evaluation design, online instructional approaches, and techniques that support effective learning environments. The course emphasizes practical skill development for facilitating instruction and assisting faculty in classroom, laboratory, and online settings. Participants engage with professional expectations for graduate assistants, explore approaches to motivating learners, and apply research‑supported practices to instructional tasks. This course does not count toward graduate degree requirements and may be repeated with different areas of instructional emphasis. Prerequisite: Department approval.

1 Credit Hour. 1 Lecture Contact Hour. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Graduate Assistantship|Exclude from Graduate GPA
Grade Mode: Leveling/Assistantships

OCED 5300. Applied Interdisciplinary Research Methods--Part 2.

This course builds on students’ foundational knowledge of applied interdisciplinary research with an emphasis on research design and data collection. Students complete a research proposal, which includes an introduction to the study, a literature review situating the study, and a research design. Students engage in collecting data, preparing data for analysis, reflecting through research journal notes, and refining their proposals through structured feedback. Students gain research knowledge and skills and conclude this course with data prepared for analysis. Prerequisite: CTE 5330 with a grade of "C" or better and department approval and instructor approval.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

OCED 5301. Applied Interdisciplinary Research Part 3.

This course builds on students’ knowledge of applied interdisciplinary research with an emphasis on finalizing a research study. Students engage in systematic analysis, interpretation, and documentation of an individualized research project. Through monitored and structured practice, students analyze data, identify findings or results, and reflect on methodological choices while situating their work within relevant scholarly literature. The course supports the development of analytical, organizational, and scholarly communication skills appropriate for advanced academic and professional settings. Prerequisite: OCED 5300 with a grade of "C" or better and department approval and instructor approval.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

OCED 5302. Capstone in Organization, Workforce, and Leadership Studies.

This course serves as the culminating “exit course” for graduate students in the Department of Organization, Workforce, and Leadership Studies. Through guided reflection, discussion, writing, and revision, students connect their graduate studies to career goals and research. Students write and edit a research report or major paper for the written portion of the comprehensive examination and discuss topics related to their program of study, career goals, research, and application of findings or conclusions. Students examine the elements of effective oral presentations and prepare a final presentation. Prerequisite: OCED 5301 with a grade of "C" or better and department approval.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

OCED 5310. Human Problems in the Workplace.

This course examines human problems in the workplace and the role of employee assistance programs (EAPs) in supporting employee well-being and organizational effectiveness. Students explore personal, interpersonal, and systemic challenges that affect performance, including stress, conflict, crisis response, family concerns, financial strain, and legal issues. Through applied learning activities, students critically evaluate research on EAP models, ethical considerations, and workplace interventions. Emphasis is placed on connecting theory to practice, assessing program effectiveness, and developing evidence-informed recommendations.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

OCED 5311. Technology, Change, and Innovation in Organizations.

This course examines how organizations plan for, implement, and evaluate technology‑driven change and innovation across business, nonprofit, governmental, and educational settings. Graduate students analyze foundational and contemporary theories of change, technology adoption, and innovation systems, with attention to the roles of leadership, organizational culture, and structure. Emphasis is placed on ethical reasoning, evidence‑based decision making, and the strategic design of innovation initiatives in complex environments. Students apply theoretical frameworks to real or simulated organizational cases, assess potential risks and benefits of emerging technologies, and develop practical recommendations for implementation. The course prepares students to communicate innovation strategies clearly to stakeholders using professional, data‑informed approaches.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

OCED 5315. Principles of Extramural Funding.

This course introduces the processes involved in identifying, evaluating, and pursuing external funding opportunities relevant to occupational, workforce, and leadership contexts. Students examine professional practices for developing competitive proposals, with attention to multi-, cross-, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The course emphasizes the components of grant planning, including needs assessment, proposal design, budgeting, implementation, and evaluation. Through applied exercises, students study funding mechanisms, agency expectations, and strategies for aligning project goals with sponsor priorities while maintaining academic and professional autonomy.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

OCED 5334. Emergent and Future Workplace Perspectives.

This course examines the emergent and evolving nature of the modern workplace. Students analyze how technological, economic, and global forces are shaping work practices and organizational structures. Emphasis is placed on interdisciplinary analysis of these developments and on evaluating their implications for individuals, organizations, and differing perspectives on the future of work.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

OCED 5361. Human Systems in the Workplace.

This course examines complexity science and systems theory as frameworks for understanding human systems in organizational environments. Students analyze how individuals, groups, and organizational structures interact within complex systems and how these interactions influence workplace dynamics. The course explores methods of systemic inquiry, organizational learning, and the application of systems thinking to practical organizational challenges. Through readings, discussions, and applied assignments, students evaluate theoretical perspectives and use systems frameworks to interpret patterns of behavior, influence, and change within organizations.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

OCED 5362. Leadership Theories and Application in Organizational Contexts.

This course examines leadership theories and their application within organizational and workforce settings. Students analyze how leadership models have been developed, interpreted, and applied across professional environments. Topics include leadership traits, power and influence, ethical leadership, and team leadership. Through readings, case studies, leadership assessments, and applied assignments, students evaluate leadership theories and examine how leadership practices influence individuals, teams, and organizational processes. Emphasis is placed on examining leadership as a field of scholarly inquiry and applying leadership frameworks to organizational situations.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter