Bachelor of Arts [BA] (Interdisciplinary Social Sciences- History)
Field of Study:
$18,874 /Yr
University of South Florida Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Education - History is a four-year undergraduate programme designed to prepare educators and history specialists. The degree combines rigorous historical study with pedagogical training, preparing graduates for teaching roles in secondary education or history-focused careers. International students pay approximately USD 28,018 (INR 26.75 Lakhs) per year in tuition, with Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 intakes available year-round. The programme requires strong English proficiency and a high school diploma or equivalent.
This programme stands apart through its integrated approach: students master historical methodologies while developing teaching competencies required for modern classrooms. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, historical analysis, and communication skills valued by educational institutions and cultural organizations. Ideal applicants are intellectually curious, passionate about history, and committed to educational impact.
- Bachelor of Arts degree in four years of full-time study in Tampa, Florida.
- International-friendly curriculum with F-1 visa pathways and post-study work authorizations available.
- Access to USF’s strong faculty network and partnerships with leading educational institutions across the United States.
Current Admission Status
Applications for the Fall 2026 intake are Open. International student deadline: 01 November 2026.
Indian applicants should submit their applications well before this deadline to allow time for document verification and processing through educational credential evaluators like NACES or WES.
Also Check: University of South Florida BA Admission Requirements and Process
University of South Florida BA Interdisciplinary Education Fees and Living Costs 2026
The total annual cost for international students at USF includes tuition, mandatory fees, health insurance, and technology charges. All amounts below are confirmed for the 2026-27 academic year.
| Fee Component | USD | INR |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Tuition (International) | 28,018 | 26,75,037 |
| Student Services Fee | 1,200 | 1,14,312 |
| Technology Fee | 600 | 57,156 |
| Health Insurance (Annual) | 1,500 | 1,42,890 |
| Total First Year Cost | 31,318 | 29,89,395 |
Tuition has increased approximately 15% effective Fall 2026 for international students, now USD 466.97 per credit hour.
- Tuition covers classroom instruction, academic advising, and access to university libraries and computer labs.
- Health insurance is mandatory for international students and covers emergency medical care and preventive services.
- Technology fees provide access to learning management systems, online course materials, and institutional software licenses.
- Student services fees support student organizations, career development, and campus facilities.
All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of USD 1 = INR 95.26 as of June 2026. Rates fluctuate daily; verify before applying.
Cost of Living in Tampa for BA Interdisciplinary Education Students
Tampa is one of Florida’s most affordable major cities for international students, with moderate housing costs and reasonable daily expenses compared to northern U.S. cities.
| Expense Category | Monthly USD | Monthly INR | Annual USD | Annual INR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (Shared Apartment) | 700-900 | 66,682-85,734 | 8,400-10,800 | 8,00,184-1,02,881 |
| Food and Groceries | 400-500 | 38,104-47,630 | 4,800-6,000 | 4,57,248-5,71,560 |
| Transport (Bus Pass/Car) | 150-250 | 14,289-23,815 | 1,800-3,000 | 1,71,468-2,85,780 |
| Utilities (Electricity, Water) | 100-150 | 9,526-14,289 | 1,200-1,800 | 1,14,312-1,71,468 |
| Personal and Miscellaneous | 200-300 | 19,052-28,578 | 2,400-3,600 | 2,28,624-3,42,936 |
| Total Monthly | 1,550-2,100 | 1,47,653-2,00,446 | 18,600-25,200 | 17,72,436-2,40,265 |
Key insight: Total annual costs for international students at USF average USD 50,000 to USD 57,000 (INR 47.65 Lakhs to INR 54.35 Lakhs), making it one of the more accessible U.S. universities in a major metropolitan area.
Read More: Cost of Living Across Major U.S. Study Cities
University of South Florida BA Interdisciplinary Education Admission 2026
USF welcomes international students into its BA Interdisciplinary Education programme with competitive but achievable admission standards. The university evaluates applicants holistically on academic credentials, English proficiency, and demonstrated commitment to education.
The QS World University Rankings 2026 position University of South Florida at #654 globally and #351-400 in the Times Higher Education 2026 rankings, reflecting strong performance in teaching and research excellence.
| Intake | Application Deadline | Intake Date | International Eligible |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall (August Start) | 01 November 2026 | August 2026 | Yes |
| Spring (January Start) | 01 October 2026 | January 2027 | Yes |
- Fall intake is the primary intake with more course variety and stronger financial aid availability.
- Spring intake is available but with reduced scholarship funds and limited course selection.
Academic Eligibility Requirements
| Criterion | Requirement | For Indian Applicants |
|---|---|---|
| High School Diploma | Required (or equivalent) | 12th standard with 60% minimum (Boards or CBSE) |
| Cumulative GPA | 3.0 or higher (on 4.0 scale) | Roughly equivalent to 75-80% average |
| High School Subjects | English, History, Social Studies | Relevant board exam subjects preferred |
| Standardized Tests | SAT or ACT (optional for some); evaluated holistically | SAT 1050-1250 range or ACT 21-28 range typical |
- USF requires official high school transcripts verified by credential evaluation services like WES or NACES.
- A GPA of 3.0 or above significantly strengthens your candidacy; most admitted students exceed this threshold.
English Language Proficiency Requirements
All international students must demonstrate English proficiency through standardized testing unless English-medium education was completed in secondary school.
| Test | Overall Minimum | Component Minimums |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 61 overall | Reading 15, Writing 15, Speaking 15, Listening 15 |
| IELTS Academic | 5.5 overall | No single band below 5.0 |
| Duolingo English Test | 90 overall | Accepted as alternative |
| PTE Academic | 48 overall | Accepted alternative |
- TOEFL iBT at 61 overall is achievable with focused eight-week preparation; most Indian applicants score 65-75.
- IELTS 5.5 band score is equivalent to pre-intermediate proficiency; expect three to four months of consistent study.
- Writing and speaking sections are most challenging for non-native speakers; allocate extra preparation time here.
- USF accepts test scores from the past two years; retakes are allowed and encouraged if initial scores fall short.
Tip for Indian students: Most Indian applicants strengthen applications with IELTS bands of 6.0 or TOEFL 70+, placing them well above minimum thresholds and improving scholarship consideration odds.
Also Check: USF BA Education Programme Full Admission Guide
University of South Florida BA Interdisciplinary Education Application 2026
USF uses the Common Application for undergraduate admissions, streamlining the process for international students applying to multiple U.S. universities. Application timelines and supporting documents are standardized for all intake cohorts.
| Phase | Expected Timeline | Status for Fall 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Application Portal Opens | August 2025 | Open |
| Early Action / Regular Deadline | 01 November 2026 | Open |
| Application Decisions Released | January-February 2027 | Expected |
| Acceptance Deposit Due | 01 May 2027 | Expected |
| Housing Application Opens | April 2027 | Expected |
| Orientation and Arrival | August 2027 | Expected |
- Applications submitted before October 1 are reviewed on a rolling basis with faster decisions possible.
- I-20 documents for F-1 visa processing are released only after admission confirmation and enrollment deposit.
Required Application Documents
- Common Application form with personal essays and activity list detailing academic and extracurricular engagement.
- Official high school transcripts evaluated through WES, NACES, or similar NACES-member evaluators.
- TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or PTE English proficiency test scores sent directly to USF.
- One to two teacher recommendation letters addressing academic strengths and classroom contributions.
- Statement of Financial Support confirming ability to fund USD 31,318 annual costs plus living expenses.
Application tip: Indian applicants should finalize credential evaluation at least three weeks before the deadline to avoid processing backlogs; delays past mid-October reduce decision-making speed.
Check Out: Complete F-1 Visa Application Process for U.S. Studies
University of South Florida BA Interdisciplinary Education Scholarships 2026
USF offers merit-based and international-specific scholarships to qualified undergraduate students, reducing the total cost of attendance for strong academic performers. Approximately 15% of incoming international undergraduates receive merit scholarships.
| Scholarship | Annual Amount (USD) | Annual Amount (INR) | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Excellence Award | 3,000 to 6,000 | 2,85,780 to 5,71,560 | 3.5+ GPA, strong essays |
| Green and Gold Scholars | 5,000 | 4,76,300 | GPA 3.6+, test scores |
| Green and Gold Directors Award | 9,000 | 8,57,340 | GPA 3.7+, demonstrated leadership |
| Green and Gold Presidential | 11,000 | 10,47,860 | GPA 3.8+, extraordinary achievements |
| General Merit Award | 2,000 to 5,000 | 1,90,520 to 4,76,300 | 3.0+ GPA, competitive profile |
- Most scholarships are renewable annually if cumulative GPA is maintained at the award level.
- Scholarship consideration is automatic upon application; no separate application required.
- Merit awards reduce tuition burden: USD 6,000 award reduces annual cost to approximately USD 25,318 (INR 24,15,237).
For a BA Interdisciplinary Education student receiving an International Excellence Award of USD 5,000, the net cost after scholarship is approximately USD 26,318 (INR 25,08,381) per year. Over four years without additional aid, total cost is roughly INR 1 Crore 0.33 Lakhs (USD 1,00,472). This makes USF competitive relative to private institutions charging USD 50,000+ annually.
Scholarship reality: Securing a scholarship above USD 5,000 is possible but competitive; most Indian applicants receive USD 2,000-5,000 annually, offsetting approximately 6-16% of total costs.
Also Check: Complete Scholarship Database for Indian Students Studying in the USA
University of South Florida BA Interdisciplinary Education Salary and Placements 2026
Graduates of the BA Interdisciplinary Education programme pursue diverse career paths in secondary education, educational administration, museum curation, and policy roles. Placement data reflects outcomes for education and social science graduates across USF.
| Career Path | Entry Salary (USD) | Entry Salary (INR) | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Secondary School Teacher (Public) | 35,000 to 45,000 | 33,41,000 to 42,86,700 | Immediate post-graduation |
| Private School Educator | 32,000 to 40,000 | 30,51,200 to 38,10,400 | Within 3 months |
| Educational Coordinator | 38,000 to 48,000 | 36,26,800 to 45,72,480 | Within 6 months |
| Museum or Cultural Institution | 33,000 to 42,000 | 31,40,580 to 40,00,920 | Within 6-9 months |
- USF reports an 88% placement rate within six months of graduation for undergraduate degree holders.
- Secondary teaching positions often require state teacher certification; many graduates pursue certification during the first year post-graduation.
- Gross salaries in the USD 35,000-45,000 range translate to take-home pay of approximately 65-75% after federal, state, and local taxes.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Florida Department of Education salary surveys, and USF graduate employment surveys.
ROI reality: A BA Education graduate earning USD 40,000 (INR 38,10,400) annually takes approximately four years to recover the four-year cost of USD 1,00,472 (INR 95,80,000 approximately). Career earnings potential and professional growth accelerate after five years in-role.
Read More: USF Graduate Outcomes and Career Support Services
USA Visa and Post-Study Work for BA Interdisciplinary Education Students
Indian students require an F-1 Student Visa to pursue undergraduate studies in the United States. This visa is specifically designed for full-time academic programmes and permits limited on-campus work.
- F-1 visa allows enrollment in your designated academic programme with authorization to work up to 20 hours per week on campus during the academic term.
- Optional Practical Training (OPT) permits up to 24 months of full-time post-graduation work in the United States in your field of study.
- STEM-designated programmes qualify for an additional 24-month OPT extension, allowing up to 36 months total post-study work authorization.
- H1-B skilled worker visa sponsorship is available after OPT completion, typically requiring employer sponsorship and annual lottery selection.
The BA Interdisciplinary Education programme is not STEM-designated; graduates qualify for the standard 24-month OPT window. Many education graduates use this period to secure work experience or transition to graduate programmes in the United States or return to India.
Visa reality: F-1 status and OPT are robust pathways for Indian students, but teaching positions typically require state licensure and permanent residency sponsorship is limited in non-shortage occupations; plan accordingly.
Also Check: OPT and H1-B Visa Pathways for International Graduates
University of South Florida BA Interdisciplinary Education Ranking 2026
University of South Florida does not appear in subject-specific QS, THE, or FT rankings for Education or History disciplines; however, the university maintains strong overall global standing.
The QS World University Rankings 2026 place University of South Florida at position #654 globally. Times Higher Education 2026 rankings position USF in the #351-400 band internationally. These overall rankings reflect the institution’s breadth across multiple disciplines including education, business, engineering, and sciences.
Key insight: USF’s lack of a subject-level education ranking does not diminish programme quality; many strong, job-focused programmes operate outside top 100 subject rankings and deliver excellent outcomes for practitioners in teaching and educational leadership.
BA Interdisciplinary Education FAQs
Ques. What is the difference between the BA Interdisciplinary Education and a traditional BA in History?
Ans. The BA Interdisciplinary Education integrates historical content with teacher education methodology and pedagogy. Students develop both disciplinary expertise in history and practical classroom skills, making the degree ideal for secondary education careers. A traditional BA in History emphasizes research and scholarly analysis without teaching-focused training.
Ques. Is on-campus housing available for international students throughout the four-year programme?
Ans. Yes, USF guarantees on-campus housing for first-year international students and allocates housing space for upper-class international students as capacity permits. Most years, international students secure on-campus housing all four years; applications are competitive. Off-campus housing in Tampa is abundant and affordable, averaging USD 700-900 monthly for shared apartments.
Ques. Can I work while pursuing the BA Interdisciplinary Education degree on an F-1 visa?
Ans. Yes, F-1 visa holders can work up to 20 hours per week on campus during academic terms and full-time during official university breaks. This employment is limited to university departments, libraries, or contracted service providers. Off-campus employment requires prior USCIS approval and is rarely granted during studies unless authorized through Curricular Practical Training (CPT), which is uncommon for education majors.
Ques. What teaching licenses do BA Interdisciplinary Education graduates hold after completing the degree?
Ans. The BA Interdisciplinary Education prepares students for teacher certification eligibility in Florida and most U.S. states; however, completion of the degree alone does not grant a teaching license. Graduates must pass the Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE) or equivalent state tests and complete fingerprinting and background clearance to obtain licensure. Many states reciprocally recognize Florida licenses, simplifying interstate employment.
Ques. Are there opportunities to specialize within history or education during the BA programme?
Ans. Yes, students select concentrations or electives within history (e.g., American, European, Asian history) and education (e.g., secondary methods, curriculum design, special education). USF allows up to four elective courses outside the core curriculum, permitting customization. Internships in schools, museums, or educational nonprofits further personalize the degree path.
The BA Interdisciplinary Education at University of South Florida offers a practical, career-focused pathway for aspiring educators and history professionals. With transparent costs around USD 31,318 annually, accessible English language requirements, and robust post-study work authorization, USF is a realistic choice for Indian students seeking U.S. teacher education credentials. The four-year commitment yields both disciplinary mastery and teaching competency, positioning graduates for immediate employment in schools and educational organizations worldwide.
Important Alert
- Early Action Application Deadline For 2027 Intake - Nov 1, 2026
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $18874 |
Other Expenses
| Head | Avg Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| Room and Board | $12256 |
| Books and supply | $728 |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2024 | $17324 |
| 2023 | $17324 |
| 2021 | $17324 |
Important Dates
| Event | Application Date |
|---|---|
| Early Action Application Deadline For 2027 Intake | Nov 1, 2026 |
| Regular Decision Application Deadline For 2027 Intake | Dec 15, 2026 |
| Rolling Application Deadline For 2027 Intake | Mar 1, 2027 |

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Key Resources for Your Study Abroad Journey
Course Guides
Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BeArt Presets-Academic Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 2,500/Yr$2,500 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Chuan Ai Lu Engstrom Memorial Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,000/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Jagdish Bhagwati Fellowship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Comindware Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 4,000/Yr$4,000 | Level Of StudyApprenticeship | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Forktip Women’s- Innovation Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Program | Scholarship per student$ 10,000/Yr$10,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based |
Similar Programs
| Program | Important Date | Total Fees | Median Exams Score | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Early Action Application Deadline For 2027 Intake (1st Nov 2026) Regular Decision Application Deadline For 2027 Intake (15th Dec 2026) Rolling Application Deadline For 2027 Intake (1st Mar 2027) | USD 18,874 /Yr | |||
-- | USD 158,130 /Yr |
| ||
-- | USD 49,037 /Yr | |||
Early Action Application Deadline For Fall 2027 Intake (1st Nov 2026) Regular Decision Application Deadline For Fall 2027 Intake (15th Jan 2027) | USD 30,900 /Yr |
| ||
-- | USD 40,882 /Yr |
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