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Individual Major (SOHE)
The Bachelor of Science in Individual Major at the University of Wisconsin’s School of Human Ecology (SOHE) offers a unique and flexible academic path for students with interdisciplinary interests that cannot be fully explored through a traditional major. This four-year, on-campus program empowers students to design a personalized curriculum by combining courses from multiple disciplines that align with their academic goals and career aspirations. With the guidance of faculty advisors and approval from the school, students construct a degree plan that addresses complex, real-world problems through a multidisciplinary lens, blending fields such as social sciences, design, health, business, or education.
This program is ideal for highly motivated learners who are eager to explore innovative solutions to societal challenges through a tailored academic experience. Students learn to integrate diverse perspectives, develop critical thinking and communication skills, and engage in hands-on research or fieldwork that reflects their unique focus. The School of Human Ecology’s collaborative environment provides a strong foundation in social impact, sustainability, and well-being, allowing each student’s journey to be both academically rigorous and personally meaningful. By graduation, students emerge with a distinctive educational portfolio that demonstrates their ability to think across boundaries and lead in dynamic, evolving professional landscapes.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Individual Major (SOHE)
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 January 2026
- Location: University of Wisconsin, United States
- Field of Study: General Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Academic Foundations and Exploration
• Introduction to Human Ecology
• Writing and Communication in the Social Sciences
• Principles of Sociology or Psychology
• Individual Major Planning Seminar
Year 2 – Interdisciplinary Integration
• Research Methods in Human Behavior
• Electives from Chosen Fields (e.g., Design, Health, Education)
• Community Engagement or Service-Learning Course
• Statistics for Social and Behavioral Sciences
Year 3 – Application and Development
• Applied Problem-Solving Seminar
• Internship or Fieldwork in Chosen Concentration
• Leadership and Professional Development
• Electives Supporting Area of Emphasis
Year 4 – Capstone and Synthesis
• Senior Thesis or Final Project
• Seminar in Multidisciplinary Analysis
• Ethics and Social Responsibility
• Portfolio Review and Presentation
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are uniquely positioned to enter careers in nonprofit management, public policy, education, health and wellness, or community development, depending on the focus of their individualized curriculum. The flexibility of the major allows students to pursue positions that require cross-functional knowledge and creative problem-solving skills. Some design pathways that prepare them for graduate study in social work, urban planning, public health, or design thinking. The ability to construct and defend a self-directed academic path signals to employers a high degree of initiative, adaptability, and intellectual curiosity—traits that are especially valued in rapidly changing industries and mission-driven fields.
Why Choose This Program
This program stands out by offering students the freedom to design, build, and own their education within a supportive academic structure. It’s perfect for learners whose goals span across traditional boundaries and who wish to create a degree that truly reflects their passions and career vision. With a strong foundation in human-centered learning, SOHE provides mentorship, experiential learning, and project-based coursework that encourages innovation and social responsibility. Students not only gain a degree but also craft a compelling academic narrative that distinguishes them in graduate admissions and the job market. For those seeking both flexibility and purpose, this program offers a transformative and personalized academic journey.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 608-262-2433
Email: admissions@grad.wisc.edu
Address: 217 Bascom Hall, 500 Lincoln Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA
