Free information sessions on Coastal Carolina University's Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (BAIS) degree program will be held Wednesday, June 21 at 7:30 p.m. and Thursday, June 29 at 4 p.m. in the Singleton Building conference room on the Coastal campus.< p> The BAIS program is particularly well suited to individuals who have an associate's degree or at least 30 hours of college credit, according to Peter Balsamo, dean of Coastal's Division of Extended Learning and Public Services, which administers the program.

"The program allows you to design a degree program incorporating prior education and work experiences," said Balsamo. The interdisciplinary studies degree program focuses on skills and knowledge essential in today's workplace such as management, organizational behavior, business and professional writing, human resources, public relations and interpersonal communications.

"The BAIS degree will enhance a graduate's job skills, promotional opportunities and career prospects," said Balsamo. "It is also a good way to prepare for graduate school."

Courses are available during the day and evening on the Conway campus, and beginning in fall 2000 semester, during the evening in Myrtle Beach. In addition, prospective students can complete courses through distance learning.

Also, a new scholarship opportunity is available to students beginning or returning to classes at Coastal to earn an interdisciplinary studies degree. The $500 per semester scholarship is open to students enrolling in the fall 2000 semester who meet the following criteria: (1) have at least 40 credit hours and a cumulative grade point average of 2.5; (2) are first-time Coastal students or are returning to Coastal after an absence of at least four semesters.

To make a reservation for one of the information sessions, call 349-2666 or e-mail: pthomas@coastal.edu. For more information about the scholarship, contact Linda Ford at 349-2093. For specific details about the BAIS degree program visit the Web site at: www.coastal.edu/learn.