The Bridge is the Bridging Disciplines Programs (BDP) newsletter to share news and student stories with BDP friends and alumni. View archived editions of The Bridge.
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Introduction from the BDP Director
Dear BDP students, alumni, faculty, and supporters,
When the Bridging Disciplines Programs were launched over 20 years ago, we began with four interdisciplinary concentrations designed to enrich the undergraduate experience at UT Austin. Today, we serve over 800 current students across 16 different programs, and more than 2,500 alumni have completed BDP certificates. We are proud of our incredible students and alumni, and we are continuing to expand the opportunities we offer UT students to participate in transformative, interdisciplinary learning experiences. In this edition of The Bridge, I would like to share with you some exciting changes coming to the BDPs!
New Endowment Supports Patients, Practitioners & Cultures of Care (PPCC) Certificate
2024 is bringing exciting changes to the Patients, Practitioners & Cultures of Care. A $2 million endowment from Ian Bratcher will expand this interdisciplinary certificate program and rename it in honor of the donor’s father, Joe W. Bratcher III.
Bridging Disciplines Programs Debut New Criminal Law, Justice & Inequality Certificate
The Bridging Disciplines Programs (BDPs) have never rested on their laurels. Since their foundation in 2002, these Undergraduate College programs have offered a steadily increasing number of certificates that allow Longhorns to pursue interdisciplinary learning on a wide range of topics beyond their majors. This spring, the BDPs add a 17th program to their roster: the Criminal Law, Justice & Inequality certificate.
Student Spotlights
Through a research assistantship with the UT Insect Collection, Museum Studies BDP student Abby Jones was able to support the collection and develop lesson plans designed to engage elementary and middle school students in a variety of insect biology topics. Read More >>
Interning with Kids Tooth Team Outreach allowed Ethics & Leadership in Health Care BDP student Alyssa Nunn to gain experience in non-profit healthcare. Read More >>
Alumni Spotlight
BDP alumna Courtney Wiesepape incorporates interdisciplinary skills gained through her Children & Society certificate in her clinical psychology work. Read More >>