Interdisciplinary Studies Program

List of programs

Location: Founders Hall 365D (Program Director), LA 320 (Advising)
Telephone: 859-572-1450 (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
Academic Advisor: Megan Larkin and Kyle Dorriere
Full-Time Faculty: Rhonda Davis and Lynda Mercer

Thinking about the discipline: Interdisciplinary study involves combining knowledge from multiple disciplines to address complex problems or questions. This approach is used when issues fall between or overlap traditional disciplinary boundaries. Through interdisciplinary learning, students gain a broad and deep understanding, acquiring skills and knowledge that prepare them to tackle multifaceted challenges.

Special opportunities for our students: Interdisciplinary Studies at NKU offers an Associate of Arts Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies (AAIS) and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies (BAIS).

The Associate of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (AAIS) is a flexible, two-year degree ideal for students who are looking for academic accreditation either to advance their employment opportunities or as a stepping-stone toward a four-year degree. This is a 60-credit hour degree program that allows a student to take classes from different programs with some emphasis on an area of interest.

The Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (BAIS) is a flexible degree that offers students a major in which they can find coherence, meaning, and value in a novel program of study. Working with an advisor students design a plan of study that addresses a complex, real-world problem that goes beyond the boundaries of traditional disciplinary programs of study. This is a 120-hour degree program that requires students to design a personalized plan of study with advanced courses from at least three different disciplinary, interdisciplinary, or professional programs.

The associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs for Interdisciplinary studies are both available on campus and online.

Our graduates are equipped with the skills to:

-Collaborate effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives;

-Think critically, creatively, and innovatively;

-Recognize the value of interdisciplinary knowledge in addressing complex real-world challenges.

Upon graduation, our students possess a versatile skill set that makes them highly attractive to a wide range of career opportunities. The interdisciplinary approach fosters a strong resume, showcasing both breadth and depth of knowledge.