Interdisciplinary minors


Interdisciplinary Minors

An interdisciplinary minor allows you to explore a special interest and have a more enriching experience at the University of North Texas.

An integral aspect of the interdisciplinary approach is that the course work is taught by faculty members representing multiple departments, colleges and schools. They can offer different viewpoints and deeper understanding of particular subjects based on their research and other scholarly activities.

Pursuing an interdisciplinary minor is useful for careers in business, government, education and public service. Our interdisciplinary minors include:

  • African American Studies
  • Asian Studies
  • Classical Studies
  • Jewish Studies
  • Mexican American Studies
  • Peace Studies

Interdisciplinary minors are also available in Alternative Dispute Resolution; International Studies; Religion Studies; Social Science; Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Studies; and Women's Studies. More information about these minors is available on our website.

Completing an interdisciplinary minor requires finishing 18 credit hours of course work.

What to expect in each minor

African American Studies

In three core history courses, you'll acquire a general background in African history. You'll also learn about defining events in African American social, cultural and political history from the time of the transatlantic slave trade to the present.

The remaining three courses are electives. At least one course must be taken outside of the history department. You may take any course that focuses substantially on the African American experience. Topics include, but are not limited to:

  • Music Cultures of the World
  • Ethical Issues in Criminal Justice
  • Race, Gender and the Media
  • African American Politics
  • Modern Africa

For more information

African American Studies
Dr. Jennifer Jensen Wallach
940-565-3395

Asian Studies

You'll learn about the world's most dynamic and significant areas: East Asia and South Asia. The curriculum focuses on the culture, history, languages and politics of some of the world's oldest civilizations and rapidly developing new economic and military powers. This includes India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, China, Korea and Japan.

Courses are taught by internationally recognized experts in Chinese and South Asian history, philosophy and art history. Students are encouraged to take advantage of study abroad opportunities to Asia.

The new perspectives you gain will help you in the professional work environment and in everyday life as our world and nation become more diverse and interconnected.

For more information

Asian Studies
Dr. Harold Tanner
940-565-2288

Classical Studies

In this minor, you'll receive an in-depth understanding of the ancient Greek and Roman civilizations. Course topics range from the civilizations' art, culture and language to their literary, philosophical and religious influences.

Two Latin or ancient Greek language courses are required in addition to two other courses chosen from a designated list of classes.

This minor is best for those pursuing careers in law, library and information sciences, the ministry, politics, teaching, writing and graduate study in the humanities.

For more information

Classical Studies
Dr. Christopher J. Fuhrmann
940-565-4527

Jewish and Israel Studies

UNT offers the only Jewish and Israel Studies Program at a public university in the Dallas-Fort Worth region and will:

  • Broaden your understanding of Judaism, ancient Israel and modern Israel
  • Enhance your understanding of a major world religion that has helped shape Western civilization and significantly influenced world events

The program features 47 courses on Jews and Judaism, including 12 on the State of Israel. Our 27 faculty members offer expertise on the Hebrew Bible, the Holocaust, anti-Semitism, philosophy, theology, film, literature, music and other topics.

We also award numerous scholarships to qualified students and bring multiple speakers to campus, primarily from Israel.

For more information

Jewish and Israel Studies
Dr. Richard Golden
940-369-8926

Mexican American Studies

This field of study dates to the 1960s. It examines the social, cultural, political and economic experience of Mexican Americans, who currently comprise 11 percent of Americans.

You'll gain increased knowledge of Mexican Americans' historical contributions and past, present and future political needs.

In its near future and beyond in the 21st century, Texas faces a Mexican American (and Latino) demographic majority. This makes Mexican American Studies relevant and practical to public policy in every way.

For more information

Mexican American Studies
Dr. Roberto R. Calderón
940-369-8929

Peace Studies

We're the only university in the southern United States that offers a minor and a concentration in this rapidly growing area of study. Course work focuses on why violence occurs and how conflicts may be brought to an earlier and less destructive conclusion. You can study subjects focusing on terrorism, interstate and civil war, ethnic conflict, peacekeeping, mediation and human rights, among others.

Our graduates have pursued careers in foreign service, international and human rights law, the Peace Corps, and organizations concentrating on Third World issues. Many have enrolled in graduate or law schools.

Required courses include Introduction to Peace Studies and at least one course focusing on each of the following areas: determinants of violence, conflict resolution and issues of justice.

Scholarships are available if you decide to pursue this minor. Scholarship information and the application are available at the program's website.

For more information

Peace Studies
Dr. T. David Mason
940-565-2386

How to enroll at UNT

High school students

We encourage you to fulfill the graduation requirements for the distinguished level of achievement under the Texas Foundation, Recommended or Distinguished Achievement high school program or the equivalent.

In your junior year, take the SAT or ACT and have your scores sent to UNT.

In your senior year, apply for admission at ApplyTexas.org by March 1 and request that your high school transcript be sent to the UNT admissions office.

Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate courses can count toward college credit at UNT.

Transfer students

If you're attending a Texas community college, you should consult our online transfer guides, the UNT Undergraduate Catalog and an academic counselor or advisor to review your degree plan. Proper planning will allow you to receive the maximum amount of transfer credits.

Our Transfer Center will help you make a successful transition to college life at UNT by connecting you with a peer mentor and other campus resources. Each year, 3,900 students transfer to UNT.