Why pursue a Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies at Nelson University?
Many students accumulate graduate credit hours without completing a degree due to changes in academic or professional direction. The Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies offers a strategic solution, allowing students to redeem previously earned graduate hours and apply them toward a completed degree.
This program is particularly advantageous for students who want to:
- Avoid losing time and financial investment from prior studies
- Combine disciplines to support career advancement or personal interests
- Complete a graduate degree that does not fit into a single traditional field
- Interdisciplinary Studies is one of the fastest-growing graduate degree options, reflecting the increasing need for cross-disciplinary knowledge in today’s academic and professional environments.
Program Focus:
Two Areas of Concentration
Customized Degree Design
The defining feature of the Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies is the ability to design a degree around two areas of concentration. This structure allows students to intentionally integrate coursework from different disciplines to meet specific goals.
Students work with academic advisors to:
- Create a cohesive and meaningful graduate program
- Select two complementary or distinct concentration areas
- Align coursework with career, ministry, or academic objectives
Transfer Credit & Degree Flexibility
Graduate transfer credits are accepted from all accredited institutions, making this degree an excellent option for students with prior graduate-level coursework.
This flexibility allows students to:
- Apply previously earned credits that do not fit other degree plans
- Reduce time and cost to degree completion
- Build upon earlier academic efforts rather than starting over
Academic and Program Support
Students enrolled in the Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies receive guidance throughout the program design process.
NGS advisors are available to assist students in:
- Identifying appropriate concentration areas
- Structuring a degree plan aligned with long-term goals
- Navigating transfer credit and program requirements
This collaborative approach ensures that each student’s degree plan is intentional, academically sound, and goal-oriented.
“Interdisciplinary Studies is one of the fastest growing degrees as it allows for cross-disciplinary research to meet the specific needs of students.”
-Bruce Rosdahl, Ph.D.
Dean, Nelson Graduate School
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies must meet the following requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree from a regionally or nationally accredited institution
- Official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities
- A completed application for admission
Admission decisions consider academic preparation, prior graduate coursework, and the student’s readiness for a self-directed, interdisciplinary program of study.
Tuition & Financial Aid
The Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies at Nelson University is designed to be both academically rigorous and financially accessible. Tuition is charged per credit hour, allowing students to pay as they progress through the program.
Nelson University offers a variety of financial aid and scholarship options for qualifying students, including federal financial aid, institutional scholarships, and ministry-related assistance. Graduate students are encouraged to explore all available funding opportunities as early in the application process as possible.
Our financial aid team is available to help students understand tuition costs, payment options, and eligibility requirements, ensuring a clear path forward as you prepare for ministry leadership and further academic study.
Careers and Outcomes
| Possible Careers |
|---|
| Organizational leadership or administration |
| Nonprofit or ministry leadership roles |
| Business, communications, or operations roles |
| Advancement toward doctoral study or further graduate education |
FAQS
Students must complete two areas of concentration as part of the degree.
Yes. Graduate transfer hours are accepted from all accredited institutions.
Yes. NGS provides guidance and support to help students design a degree aligned with their academic, personal, and professional goals.