The University of Arizona's Graduate Interdisciplinary Programs (GIDPs) report to the Vice President for Research, Graduate Studies, and Economic Development through the Director of GIDPs. GIDPs transcend departmental boundaries by facilitating cutting edge teaching and research where traditional disciplines interface. The fusion of ideas, techniques, and expertise from the traditional academic fields provides for the evolution of modern and imaginative methods of research, and the creation of new fields of endeavor. The high value placed on interdisciplinary research and education is one of the ways that The University of Arizona is fostering innovation and creativity among its faculty and students.

The 15 Graduate Interdisciplinary Programs are an integral part of the Mission Statement of the University of Arizona, and student enthusiasm for the programs is one of their strongest characteristics. Outstanding research and educational facilities attract the best and brightest students. In 2006, GIDPs produced 11% of all Ph.D. degrees at the University of Arizona. Interdisciplinary excellence among faculty is enhanced through GIDPs. Faculty participating in GIDPs develop strong partnerships with academic and research institutes campus-wide, state-wide and nationally. Currently, 661 faculty from 14 colleges and 108 departments are actively involved in GIDPs at the University of Arizona. This strong network of cooperative relationships signifies the Intellectual Fusion put into practice through The University of Arizona’s Graduate Interdisciplinary Programs. GIDP faculty is also significantly successful in obtaining NIH and NSF grants.