Is the BAC an accredited undergraduate program?
Yes, California Institute of Integral Studies and the BAC program are accredited through the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). The school has been accredited since 1981.

What can I do with a Bachelor's of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies?
A Bachelor of Arts degree in Interdisciplinary Studies can offer a wide array of options upon completion of the program. Many of our students continue in advanced programs either at CIIS or through colleges nationwide. The Bachelor's of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies degree prepares students for graduate level studies in diverse fields such psychology, ministry, art therapy, environmental science, or English. Alumni of the BAC program seek employment in fields such as business, performing arts, education, human resources consulting, and law.

What is cohort learning and how many students are in a cohort?
The BAC program utilizes transformative learning principles of group development called cohorts. In this special learning environment, 15 to 22 students are led by two faculty members each semester throughout the academic year. The students in your cohort will remain the same throughout your undergraduate education at CIIS.

How often does the BAC cohort meet?
The BAC Cohort meets 16 times a year (about every 3-4 weeks). These weekends begin on Friday nights from 6:15 p.m.-9:15 p.m. and continues on Saturdays from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Some students may also take a 3-unit class on Sunday morning from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. or an evening class throughout the week.

How many hours a week would I need to plan for studying outside of the cohort weekend?
In addition to class meetings, all students should plan for approximately 20 hours of academic time per week. This time will be devoted to reading, paper writing, art pieces, communication with your cohort through the email list serve, preparation for group or individual presentations and other work as assigned.

Can I take graduate level classes at CIIS while in the BAC program?
Students who have "open" 3-unit elective (math, science and art requirements are already fulfilled) have the option of registering for 3-units of graduate-level coursework. These units will be awarded as undergraduate credits and will be applied toward the BA degree. They cannot be applied toward a Masters degree at a later time.

Can I be enrolled in other schools while attending the BAC?
Once a student enters the BAC program, all units towards a CIIS BA degree must be completed through CIIS. If students enroll in courses outside of CIIS after their entry date in the BAC, those units earned cannot be counted toward the 120 needed for the BA in Interdisciplinary Studies at CIIS.