Interdisciplinary Studies, M.A.

Rhonda D. Davis, Ph.D., Graduate Program Director

Introduction

Program Description

The Interdisciplinary Studies program empowers students to chart their own academic journeys, blending flexibility with intellectual rigor. Here, you won’t just follow a prescribed path-you’ll collaborate with faculty mentors to design a personalized plan of study that tackles a complex, real-world challenge, one that defies the boundaries of any single discipline.

Our students draw from graduate courses across two or more fields, weaving together diverse perspectives and methodologies. This cross-pollination of ideas culminates in a capstone project or master’s thesis that is as unique as each student’s vision and aspirations.

Whether you’re seeking to deepen your expertise, pivot in your career, or simply feed your intellectual curiosity, this program is your launchpad. Our graduates emerge as “T-shaped professionals”-individuals with both the broad adaptability and deep expertise today’s world demands. They are creative problem solvers, critical thinkers, and skilled communicators, ready to innovate and lead in a rapidly changing landscape.

Join us and become the kind of thinker and leader the future needs: interdisciplinary, innovative, and prepared to make a difference.

Office of the MAIS Program

The program office is located in FH 365. For more information call (859) 572-1433, email ist@nku.edu or visit our website at https://www.nku.edu/academics/artsci/programs/graduate/interdisciplinary-studies.html.

Program Admission Process

In order to be considered for regular admission to the MAIS program, applicants will need:

An application for graduate admission to Northern Kentucky University.
A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Official transcripts for all undergraduate and graduate work.
Two letters of reference from persons qualified to evaluate potential for successful performance in the graduate program.
A personal resumé that reflects both work and academic experience.
A written statement of purpose indicating professional or personal goals, the intended academic focus for the plan of study, and the relevant knowledge or skills that might figure into the anticipated interdisciplinary research.

♦ Indicates prerequisite.

Program Curriculum

IST 585 Introduction to Graduate Interdisciplinary Studies (3 credits) ♦
24-27 credit hours of electives in at least two disciplines at the graduate level.
Choose one of the culminating experiences:
IST 793 Integrative Studies: Capstone (3 credits)
OR
IST 797 Applied Research: Capstone Thesis (3-6 credits) ♦

Total Hours: 33

Graduation Requirements

Candidates are required to take at least thirty-three (33) credit hours of graduate level coursework in at least two disciplines. At least 15 credit hours must be taken at the 600-level or above. The total 33 hours includes the required three hour IST 585 , which is taken in the first year, and either the three hour Capstone course (IST 793 ) or the six -hour thesis option (IST 797 ). Only 6 credit hours of independent study or directed readings will count toward the degree. Students can include up to 9 hours of graduate coursework from the Greater Cincinnati Consortium of Colleges and Universities (GCCCU). Transfer credits may not constitute more than 9 credit hours. We strongly encourage internships and study away opportunities for course credit. Students who earn over 6 credit hours with the grade of C or lower will be removed from the program.