Best Online Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online interdisciplinary studies degree program? 

In an online interdisciplinary studies degree program, you’ll complete a flexible core curriculum, typically a mix of general education courses, electives, and focused classes in your chosen study areas. Most programs include a capstone project where you synthesize what you’ve learned, and many require internship or field experience hours to give you hands-on skills.

Tuition generally ranges from $295 to $495 per credit, with total costs varying based on the number of credits and your pace. Classes are delivered online, often as a mix of live (synchronous) sessions and self-paced (asynchronous) coursework, allowing you to study from anywhere while balancing other commitments. You’ll work with advisors to tailor your degree and have support throughout your online journey.

Where can I work with an online interdisciplinary studies degree? 

An online interdisciplinary studies degree opens doors to many fields. Graduates work in corporate offices, government agencies, nonprofit groups, and can even launch their own businesses. Roles include management, consulting, project coordination, research, and positions tailored to each person’s areas of study.

Many also find opportunities in education, technology, healthcare, and creative industries. According to recent data, around 62% of interdisciplinary studies graduates work in business, education, or healthcare sectors. 

How much can I make with an online interdisciplinary studies degree? 

The average annual salary for professionals with an online interdisciplinary studies degree in the U.S. is about $74,440 as of July 2025. Entry-level graduates can expect salaries ranging from $47,000 to $55,000, while experienced professionals may earn up to $92,000 or more, with the top 10% earning above $115,000. 

Salaries vary by industry and location. For example, project managers and human resources managers often see higher salaries, and the highest-paying cities (such as Green River, WY, and San Mateo/San Francisco, CA) can offer 15–20% above the national average.

Those in management or business roles tend to have stronger earning power. Gaining advanced degrees or relevant professional certifications can further boost income potential, helping move into leadership or specialized positions with higher pay.

List of the Best Online Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Programs for 2025

Online interdisciplinary studies programs offer a unique way to combine multiple academic interests into a single degree. Students can customize their coursework across various disciplines, preparing for diverse career paths or advanced studies. Some programs are as flexible and fast-paced as the shortest biochemistry online degree, allowing quicker entry into the workforce.

1. Arizona State University - Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies

This 100% online program at Arizona State University is ideal for students seeking a flexible, customizable education, allowing them to combine two academic disciplines from over 40 options. The curriculum focuses on developing versatile skills, including critical thinking and analytical reasoning, culminating in an experiential learning project. Graduates are prepared for diverse career paths such as Marketing Manager or Human Resources Manager.

• Program length: 4 years 
• Cost per credit: $561–$661
• Total credits: 120 
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. Eastern Oregon University - Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies

Eastern Oregon University offers a personalized degree for students aiming to align their education with career goals. It allows for a customized study plan through combining minors or an individualized plan, culminating in a portfolio. The program features a generous transfer policy and career support, preparing graduates for diverse roles in fields like business, education, and marketing.

• Program length: N/A 
• Cost per credit: $329
• Total credits: 180 
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

3. East Tennessee State University - Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies

This flexible program from East Tennessee State University caters to students with diverse interests and obligations, offering 100% online, hybrid, or on-ground options. Students actively design their curriculum, integrating liberal arts with professional skills like critical thinking and communication. Though an internship is optional, the program's three customizable paths prepare graduates for various career roles, from Corporate Trainer to Social Services Worker.

• Program length: 4 years 
• Cost per credit: $464 (TN residents) 
• Total credits: 120 
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

4. Georgia State University - Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies

Georgia State University’s online Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies, with a concentration in Arts and Sciences, is designed for students who have completed 60 or more credit hours. It offers a flexible, customizable curriculum across various subjects, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. The program includes an experiential learning component, like an internship or capstone, to prepare students for diverse careers.

• Program length: 4 years 
• Cost per credit: $299
• Total credits: 120
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

5. Liberty University - Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies

Liberty University's Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies offers a fully online pathway that allows students to tailor their education by combining diverse fields. This program is ideal for individuals with varied experiences and career goals, equipping them with integrated skills for multidisciplinary professions. It features convenient 8-week courses and accepts substantial transfer credits, including those earned through military service or professional experience.

• Program length: 4 years 
• Cost per credit:  $390
• Total credits: 120
• Accreditation: SACSCOC 

6. Louisiana State University - Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies

LSU Online offers a customizable Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies, ideal for non-traditional students and working professionals. This 100% online program allows students to combine three minors from diverse fields, such as business, IT, and humanities. It focuses on developing job-ready skills like leadership and critical thinking, taught by expert professors.

• Program length: 4 years 
• Cost per credit: $445
• Total credits: 120
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

7. Oklahoma State University - Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies

Oklahoma State University offers a 100% online Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies, perfect for students seeking a customizable education to align with their unique career goals. This flexible program allows students to combine two or three areas of study, accommodating those with busy schedules. Courses are taught by the same quality faculty as on-campus programs.

• Program length: 4 years 
• Cost per credit: $180.55 (Oklahoma residents) 
• Total credits: 120
• Accreditation: HLC 

8. University of Arkansas - Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies

The University of Arkansas offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies, designed for motivated students whose unique interests and talents extend beyond traditional majors. This customizable program allows students to combine coursework from multiple disciplines, preparing them for diverse employment opportunities or further graduate studies. Students work with advisors to craft a personalized degree plan.

• Program length: 4 years 
• Cost per credit: $269.75 (in-state); $971.53 (out-of-state) 
• Total credits: 120 
• Accreditation: HLC 

9. University of Central Florida - Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies

The University of Central Florida offers a flexible online Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies. This program allows students to design their own degree by combining two or three academic areas, catering to individual interests and career goals. It emphasizes academic flexibility and includes a capstone experience with options like service-learning or internships. 

• Program length: 4 days
• Cost per credit: $179.19 (in-state); $715.80 (out-of-state)
• Total credits: 120
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

10. University of Virginia - Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies

The University of Virginia offers a flexible online Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies, designed for working adults seeking to complete their degree while balancing commitments. This program provides a broad liberal arts education, allowing students to choose a concentration and complete a two-semester capstone project. It offers individualized advising and allows up to 60 transfer credits.

• Program length: Typically 3-4 years (max 7 years)
• Cost per credit: $499
• Total credits: 120
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

How long does it take to complete an online interdisciplinary studies degree program?

The time to complete an online interdisciplinary studies degree program generally ranges from about two to four years, depending on factors like transfer credits, course load, and program specifics.

• Many online bachelor's programs in interdisciplinary studies require around 120 credit hours, typically completed over 40 courses or so.
• Most full-time students finish the degree in about three to four years, which is similar to a traditional bachelor's degree timeline.
• Some programs offer accelerated options or flexible pacing. Course lengths vary from roughly seven to eight weeks per course, and multiple start dates throughout the year can enable faster completion if desired.
• If you start with many transfer credits, this can shorten the time to degree significantly; some institutions allow transferring more than 100 credits toward the degree.

Generally, online interdisciplinary studies degrees are designed to be flexible to fit the schedules of working adults, so part-time options may extend completion time. This flexibility is particularly valuable for students considering specialized or condensed programs like the shortest MDiv degree online.

How does an online interdisciplinary studies degree program compare to an on-campus program? 

An online interdisciplinary studies degree program generally offers similar academic content, faculty access, and degree requirements as an on-campus program but differs mainly in delivery format, flexibility, and student experience. Key differences include:

• Delivery and Flexibility: Online programs provide 100% remote, often asynchronous learning, allowing students to complete coursework on their schedule without commuting. On-campus programs require in-person attendance and fixed class times, which may better support students who thrive with face-to-face interaction and structured environments. Some institutions also offer hybrid options combining online and in-person elements.
• Faculty and Curriculum: Many online interdisciplinary studies programs are taught by the same faculty as on-campus courses and maintain the same academic standards, curriculum, and degree requirements. 
• Interaction and Engagement: On-campus programs allow for direct, real-time interaction with professors and peers, access to campus resources, labs, and extracurricular activities. Online programs may rely on virtual discussions, video conferencing, and digital resources. Some online formats are synchronous (live virtual classes), offering real-time engagement, while others are asynchronous, enabling self-paced study.
• Customization and Transfer Credits: Both online and on-campus interdisciplinary programs offer personalized degree plans combining multiple concentrations or fields of study. Online programs often emphasize transfer credits and flexible pacing to accommodate adult or part-time learners, sometimes allowing transfer of a large number of credits to shorten degree time.
• Student Support: On-campus students have immediate access to physical campus resources and networks. Online students rely on virtual support services, academic advising, and career services designed for remote access, which some schools successfully provide with equal effectiveness. 

The chart below shows the projection of traditional-aged undergraduate distribution by delivery mode in 2025. Such flexibility has made online study attractive even to students pursuing focused credentials like the shortest graduate certificate in biotechnology online.

What is the average cost of an online interdisciplinary studies degree program?

The average cost of an online interdisciplinary studies degree program varies by institution but generally falls in the range of about $295 to $495 per credit hour. Below are the key factors that affect the cost of the program:

• Total Credit Requirement: The total number of credits needed to graduate influences overall cost. Most programs require around 120 credits, but some may have more.
• Transfer Credits: The amount of transfer credits a student can apply reduces the credits they need to take and pay for, thereby lowering costs. Some programs allow transfer of many credits (up to 135 credits), significantly impacting total cost and time to degree.
• Residency Status: Some universities differentiate in-state and out-of-state tuition rates, affecting per-credit cost and the total price students pay.
• Pacing and Course Load: Accelerated or heavier course loads can shorten time to degree, potentially reducing costs related to tuition and living expenses over time, while part-time study extends the timeline and total costs.
• Program Customization: Some interdisciplinary studies programs are highly flexible and allow students to tailor their course selections or concentrations, which can influence costs depending on selected courses and departments.

In some cases, choosing specialized, streamlined programs like the shortest online medical billing and coding associates degree can provide an even more cost-efficient route toward meeting career goals.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online interdisciplinary studies degree program?

Students enrolling in an online interdisciplinary studies degree program have access to a variety of financial aid options similar to those available in many online college programs. Key financial aid options include:

• Federal Financial Aid: Most students qualify for federal aid such as Pell Grants, Direct Loans, and work-study programs. These require filling out the FAFSA form.
• Scholarships: Many universities offer scholarships specifically for online students or for interdisciplinary studies majors. For example, Eastern Oregon University (EOU) reports that about 92% of their online students receive financial aid and scholarships, including military-related scholarships such as the Active Duty Scholarship and Veterans United Foundation Scholarship for veterans and military families.
• Military and Veteran Benefits: Military service members, veterans, and their families often have access to additional scholarships, tuition assistance programs, and benefits like the GI Bill.
• Transfer Credit Savings: Students can reduce costs substantially by transferring prior college credits or qualified training/work experience credits, decreasing the number of credits needed (some programs accept up to 135 transfer credits).
• Institutional Scholarships and Discounts: Many universities offer their own scholarships or financial aid opportunities for online students.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online interdisciplinary studies degree program?

The prerequisites for enrolling in an online interdisciplinary studies degree program typically include:

• Prior College Credit or High School Diploma: Many programs require applicants to have a high school diploma or equivalent, but most online interdisciplinary studies degrees are targeted at transfer or adult students who already have some college credit. 
• Minimum GPA Requirements: Most schools set a minimum cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) for admission, generally around 2.0 to 2.75, depending on the institution and transfer status. 
• Transcripts Submission: Applicants must provide official transcripts from all previously attended institutions and high schools.
• Specific Credit or Coursework Requirements: Some programs accept a large number of transfer credits (up to 135 credits), reducing the time to degree. Some bachelor's degree programs require a certain amount of upper-division credits to be completed at the institution.
• English Proficiency: For international students, proof of English proficiency via the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an equivalent test may be required.
• Application Process and Fees: The application process typically involves submitting an online application and paying a non-refundable application fee. However, in some cases, fees may be waived for military-affiliated students.
• Additional: Some programs encourage students to work with an academic advisor to develop an individualized plan that suits their career or educational goals. 

The following chart illustrates the most prevalent degree types among the working population with interdisciplinary studies backgrounds in 2023.

What courses are typically in an online interdisciplinary studies degree program?

Typical courses in an online interdisciplinary studies degree program combine core interdisciplinary coursework with customizable courses based on chosen concentrations. Common elements across programs include:

• Core Interdisciplinary Courses: Foundational courses focus on skills like critical thinking, research methods, communication, analytical reasoning, and experiential learning. 
• General Education: Broad courses in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, mathematics, and English to build foundational knowledge and skills.
• Electives: Chosen to support the student’s interdisciplinary focus. These may cover specialized topics like Food, Commodities, and Cultures; Science, Technology, and Innovation; or digital marketing, depending on the school.
• Capstone or Integrative Project: Most programs require a culminating project or portfolio showcasing integration of interdisciplinary learning.

What types of specializations are available in an online interdisciplinary studies degree program?

Online interdisciplinary studies degree programs offer a high degree of flexibility, allowing students to choose from a wide range of specializations and often combine two or more to create a customized degree. Here are common types of specializations available across various universities:

• Business and Management: Accounting, business administration, marketing, management, economics, finance, leadership, entrepreneurship. For professionals seeking top-tier leadership roles, some universities also offer an accelerated online Doctor of Business Administration in Management, providing advanced expertise and research skills.
• Communication and Media: Communication studies, media, public relations, digital marketing, journalism.
• Liberal Arts and Humanities: English, philosophy, history, foreign languages, religious studies, classics, literature, and art history.
• Social Sciences: Psychology, sociology, anthropology, political science, international studies, gender studies, African American studies.
• Education: Elementary or secondary education, educational studies, early childhood education, curriculum design. For those eager to enter the classroom quickly, some institutions offer a fast-track online elementary education degree as an accelerated pathway to licensure.
• Health and Wellness: Health sciences, health informatics, public health, gerontology, kinesiology, wellness promotion.
• Applied Sciences and Technology: Information technology, information systems, computer science, cybersecurity, cloud solutions, and operations.
• Environmental and Natural Sciences: Biology, environmental science, ecology, chemistry, earth science, physics.
• Fine Arts and Applied Arts: Visual arts (studio art, art history), performing arts, digital arts, music, theater, design. This category may also encompass programs that are considered the best fashion design programs, offering comprehensive curricula in areas like textile science, garment construction, and fashion illustration.
• Professional and Career-Focused Tracks: Administrative sciences, hospitality and tourism, criminal justice, emergency medical services, military studies, technical studies, human resources, social work, community services.

How to Choose the Best Online Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Programs

Choosing the best online interdisciplinary studies degree program involves considering a combination of academic quality, flexibility, relevance to your goals, and support services. Here’s a practical step-by-step guide to making an informed selection:

Accreditation and Academic Quality

To ensure your degree is widely recognized and meets high educational standards, choose an accredited institution. Always verify institutional accreditation before enrolling. Programs recognized by credible ranking organizations or with strong faculty are often a safer choice due to their reputation and rankings.

Program Structure and Customization

Opt for programs that allow you to tailor your degree, choosing concentrations or areas of study that fit your career aspirations or academic interests (e.g., business and communication, health science and psychology); this is referred to as degree customization. 

Seek out programs that maximize your prior college or work credits, as transfer credit policies can save significant time and money. Programs offering a capstone project or integrative research experience give you a portfolio-ready project for jobs or graduate school applications. These are known as capstone or integrative experiences.

Flexibility and Learning Format

Consider whether courses are asynchronous (fully self-paced) or synchronous (set meeting times) when looking at the online delivery format. True flexibility is key for working adults or those balancing other commitments. Some schools have multiple start dates per year, so you don’t have to wait to begin or progress. The ability to attend part- or full-time lets you better balance work, study, and personal life, offering part-time and full-time options.

Specializations and Curriculum

Strong programs offer a wide array of concentration or specialization choices, including emerging fields like digital marketing, cybersecurity, and health informatics, providing breadth and depth of specializations. 

Examine course lists for subjects and skill development matching today’s workplace needs (e.g., critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, data analysis) to assess the relevance of course content.

For those with aspirations for advanced practice in psychology, understanding how to get a PsyD in clinical psychology would involve looking for programs with strong psychology concentrations that can serve as a foundational step toward a doctoral degree, including relevant coursework and practical experiences.

What career paths are available for graduates of an online interdisciplinary studies degree program?

Graduates of an online interdisciplinary studies degree program have access to a wide variety of career paths across numerous industries. The best-suited roles often depend on the specific concentrations chosen during the degree, but overall, career opportunities span business, education, public service, healthcare, the arts, and more. 

Business and Management

• Project Manager: Lead and coordinate projects across industries, using organizational and problem-solving skills developed through interdisciplinary studies.
• Sales Manager: Oversee sales strategies and teams.
• Human Resources Specialist/Recruiter: Manage hiring processes, employee relations, and workplace policies.
• Marketing Coordinator/Account Executive: Plan and execute marketing campaigns, analyze market trends, and integrate communication strategies.

Education and Training

• Teacher/Educator: Teach in schools or adult education programs, often in specialized or interdisciplinary subjects.
• Admissions Counselor or Career Advisor: Advise students on academic and career decisions.
• Curriculum Designer or Trainer: Develop educational materials for schools, companies, or organizations.

Community, Social Services, and Advocacy

• Social Worker: Support individuals and communities through counseling, advocacy, or resource management.
• Counselor or Program Coordinator: Guide individuals or run programs in non-profit, educational, or community organizations. For those specifically aiming for a counseling career, exploring fast-track online counselor education programs can provide an accelerated path to licensure and professional practice.
• Nonprofit Administrator: Manage operations or outreach for nonprofit organizations.

Creative Arts and Communication

• Journalist or Communication Specialist: Write and edit news articles, manage corporate communications, or handle public relations.
• Media, Design, or Digital Marketing Roles: Work in content creation, media management, or digital campaigns.

Science, Technology, and Emerging Fields

• IT or Tech-Related Roles: Positions such as IT support, digital marketing in technology businesses, or roles in environmental or sustainability sectors.
• Policy Analyst or Researcher: Work in government, think tanks, or NGOs analyzing and recommending policy.

Healthcare and Human Services

• Healthcare Administration: Manage medical offices, healthcare programs, or community health initiatives.
• Health Educator or Community Outreach Specialist: Promote wellness and public health in educational or nonprofit organizations.

Government, Law, and Public Service

• Public Service or Government Roles: Positions may include administrative roles, policy making, community advocacy, or public relations.
• Law or Graduate Study Preparation: The degree can serve as a pathway to advanced studies in law, counseling, business, or public administration.

Entrepreneurship and Self-Designed Careers

• Entrepreneur: Start your own business or consultancy by leveraging interdisciplinary skills and perspectives.
• Freelance Roles: Interdisciplinary backgrounds are beneficial for flexible, gig-based work across a range of fields.

Is an online interdisciplinary studies degree worth the investment?

When evaluating an online interdisciplinary studies degree, consider both the upfront costs and the long-term career benefits. Analyze tuition expenses alongside potential salary increases and the diverse skill set the program offers. A thorough cost-benefit analysis should account for enhanced job flexibility, advancement opportunities, and the ability to pivot between industries. Additionally, comparing program structures and duration can help you determine which educational path best aligns with your career goals, such as reviewing options like the shortest online EdD programs for accelerated career advancement.

What is the job market for graduates with an online interdisciplinary studies degree?

Graduates with an interdisciplinary studies degree, including those earned online, are prepared for a diverse range of career opportunities due to the broad skillset and adaptable knowledge gained from studying multiple disciplines. 

The chart below shows the top-employing occupations for workers with an interdisciplinary studies degree:

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say about Their Online Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Programs 

Other Things You Should Know About Online Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Programs

What is the purpose of interdisciplinary studies?

The purpose of interdisciplinary studies is to integrate knowledge and methods from different disciplines to address complex problems that cannot be solved by a single field alone.

This approach fosters critical thinking, creativity, and innovation by encouraging collaboration across diverse academic areas. It enables students and researchers to gain a broader perspective, develop versatile skills, and create more comprehensive solutions to real-world issues, enhancing their ability to adapt in a rapidly changing and interconnected world.

What’s the biggest advantage of your interdisciplinary studies degree?

The biggest advantage of an interdisciplinary studies degree is its flexibility in combining diverse fields to create personalized and relevant expertise. This degree allows students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals, fostering adaptable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication across multiple disciplines.

Graduates are better prepared to tackle complex, real-world challenges, making them attractive to employers seeking innovative thinkers who can work collaboratively across various sectors in an ever-evolving job market.

Which interdisciplinary course is best?

The best interdisciplinary course depends on your interests and goals. Still, environmental studies is widely regarded as one of the top choices due to its blend of science, policy, and social impact for addressing real-world challenges. Other strong options include international business, human biology, and individualized majors that let you design your own combination of disciplines. 

Why is interdisciplinary learning important? 

Interdisciplinary learning is important because it enables students to develop critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills by integrating knowledge from multiple disciplines.

This approach fosters a holistic understanding of complex real-world issues, encourages collaboration, and cultivates adaptability and versatility. It prepares learners to navigate diverse perspectives, think innovatively, and address multifaceted challenges effectively, which is essential in today’s interconnected and rapidly changing world.