Exploring Real-World Challenges Through Baylor’s Interdisciplinary Studies Program
The Interdisciplinary Studies (IDS) program at Baylor University’s Diana R. Garland School of Social Work empowers students to explore multiple interests and prepare for diverse career paths through an interdisciplinary approach to education. By combining coursework across fields such as social work, business, healthcare and education, students can build a degree plan tailored to their individual interests, professional aspirations and long-term goals.
This flexibility encourages students to connect knowledge across disciplines, explore complex social issues, and develop practical skills they can apply to their future careers. For IDS student David Mead, this interdisciplinary approach provided an opportunity to examine a pressing issue at the intersection of public policy, social services and aging: the future of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for older adults.
Through his capstone project, “The Impact of Aging Adults on SNAP Eligibility Requirements, " Mead explored how the legislation commonly known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” could affect older adult SNAP recipients, particularly those who rely on food assistance to meet their basic nutritional needs.
By examining the potential implications of changes to SNAP eligibility and benefit access, his project highlighted the importance of understanding how public policy decisions affect vulnerable populations. His work also underscored the value of an interdisciplinary education in connecting policy, community well-being, and social work to better understand the challenges facing older adults.
Through his research, Mead explored potential solutions that encourage businesses, community organizations, and social service providers to work together to strengthen food security. His recommendations included expanding support for food banks and creating opportunities to integrate social workers and caseworkers into food assistance settings.
By helping individuals navigate benefit applications, identify additional sources of assistance, and connect with community resources, these professionals can provide more comprehensive support to older adults facing food insecurity. These collaborative approaches aim to address gaps in food access, protect the health and nutritional well-being of older adults, and help communities respond to the potential effects of reductions in food assistance programs.
Interdisciplinary solutions that combine business efficiency with social work advocacy can reduce harm and strengthen community well-being.
Mead’s capstone project exemplifies the value of the Interdisciplinary Studies program at the Garland School, where students can bring together their interests to explore meaningful solutions to real-world challenges. By connecting public policy, social services, and community well-being, IDS students have the opportunity to pursue questions that matter to them while developing knowledge and skills that support their professional goals.
Whether you are interested in healthcare, business, education, social work or the connections between these fields, the IDS program offers the flexibility to shape your education around your passions and aspirations.