Programs

The Boston University Prison Education Program currently offers two academic credentials—a Bachelor of Liberal Studies in Interdisciplinary Studies and an Undergraduate Certificate in Interdisciplinary Studies.

Boston University Prison Education Program students who complete the bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies (128 credits) will be able to:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of, and ability to apply, fundamental theories, perspectives, and techniques in the areas of English, mathematics, computer science, natural science, literature, philosophy, and history
  • Display breadth of knowledge by explaining and applying subject-matter content to real-life situations
  • Articulate goals, purposes, and methods used to understand the world in scientific, cultural, historical, ethical, and religious ways
  • Exhibit proficiency in research methods and forms of inquiry that yield results appropriate for quantitative and qualitative data analysis
  • Demonstrate informational and communication competence through written and oral communication consistent with standard academic styles and formats (e.g., research paper using APA style guide; oral presentation of research project)
  • Conduct a literature search, select and critically evaluate valid and appropriate sources, and synthesize an argument that they are able to present in oral and/or written form
  • Analyze complex issues and arguments (e.g., identify assumptions, premises, and conclusions) in intellectual contexts (scientific, technical, ethical, social, and global) and will assess the validity of arguments presented

Boston University Prison Education Program students who complete the undergraduate certificate in Interdisciplinary Studies (32 credits) will be able to demonstrate:

Increased preparedness for further study toward undergraduate degree completion

Critical-thinking skills via analysis and synthesis of interdisciplinary material studied in the classical and contemporary liberal arts

Improved readiness for active citizenship by means of a strong foundation in the liberal arts and an understanding of the connectedness of knowledge and learning