Nov 21, 2024  
2024-2025 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2024-2025 Undergraduate Catalog

Interdisciplinary Studies, B.A.


Location: Founders Hall 365D (Program Director), Landrum Hall 330 (Advising)
Telephone: 859-572-1433 (Program Director), 859-572-5494 (Advising)
Fax: 859-572-6185
Email Address: ist@nku.edu
Web Address: http://ist.nku.edu
Program Director: Rhonda Davis
Other Key Personnel:

Undergraduate Advisors: Megan Larkin, Kyle Dorriere

The Interdisciplinary Studies program at NKU offers students educational experiences through which they can find coherence, meaning, and value in rigorous individualized programs of study–programs that address complex, real-world problems that often go beyond the scope of traditional disciplinary or professional programs of study. 

Our department offers flexible degrees that offer students a major in which they can find coherence, meaning, and value in a novel program of study. Working with an advisor you design a plan of study that addresses a complex, real-world problem that goes beyond the boundaries of traditional disciplinary programs of study.  

The diploma says “Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies”, but the resume demonstrates an ability to address complex problems, integrate knowledge from different areas, and take the initiative to design their own rigorous path through college–a path that has pulled together what they care about and what they are good at. Because of its flexibility, the Interdisciplinary Studies degree is ideal for students who want to move beyond narrow traditional programs. It presents an effective opportunity for students who want to change majors while using some of the credit they have already earned. It is perfect for students who have earned credits from another institution that can be transferred to NKU.

Integrative Studies Core (6 credits)


General Studies Track (30+ credits)


  • 1 focus area (in A&S) + electives from any college
  • 2 required IST courses (185/397)
  • 1 capstone course in any discipline (could be IST 497  )
  • Must have earned at least 60 credit hours to apply

Integrative Studies Track (39+ credits)


Integrated Track

General Track
  • Apply anytime
  • Apply with 60+ credit hours
  • Face-to-face classes and online
  • OnlineA 7 week courses only
  • Need 3 focus areas (1 in A&S)
  • Need 1 focus area in A&S
  • 3 required IST courses
  • 2 required IST courses
  • Capstone in IST 497
  • IST 497 or Capstone in A&S focus area