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In this article, we profile the 30 most affordable master’s in interdisciplinary studies online programs of 2021.

A degree in interdisciplinary studies opens the door to a number of career possibilities. Online degree options are offered from some of the nation’s top-ranked colleges and universities, adding to the degree’s versatility. Interdisciplinary studies graduates have pursued leadership roles in education, human resources, journalism, law, and other fields.

30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs Methodology

We reviewed approximately 75 colleges and universities that offered master’s in interdisciplinary studies online programs, or closely related degrees, such as liberal studies. Selection criteria was based on accreditation and raw affordability. We gathered information from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES College Navigator) and verified accreditation on the school’s website. We then selected programs that cost less than $21,500 per year and ranked them according to raw affordability.

Below is our list of 30 affordable master’s in interdisciplinary studies online programs of 2021.

#30 – University of Richmond

Online Master’s in Liberal Arts

University of Richmond, Virginia

Website

University of Richmond - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
An affordable degree in the liberal arts! University of Richmond.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $24,960

The University of Richmond provides working professionals with an online master’s in interdisciplinary studies. The program is designed for those seeking a self-designed educational experience from one of the top liberal arts institutions in the United States. The program offers courses from various disciplines including anthropology, history, literature, psychology, sociology, and more for a well-rounded education that expands the worldview and knowledge of the student. Admission requires students to have a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, along with a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. No test scores are required to apply. A one-page admission essay is required. The University of Richmond is ranked #22 in national liberal arts colleges by U.S. News and World Report.

#29 – Nova Southeastern University

Online Master’s in Cross-Disciplinary Studies

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Website

Nova Southeastern University - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
Nova Southeastern University – Where you can earn a customizable master’s in interdisciplinary studies online degree!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $21,206

Nova Southeastern University offers a master’s in interdisciplinary studies online for individuals seeking a graduate degree they can self-design to meet their personal and professional needs. The Nova program has a Coastal Environmental and Society track that focuses on the use of coastal data used for political conflict. The degree is a joint effort by the Colleges of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. The program offers great flexibility through online courses along with the option to attend full- or part-time. Full-time students graduate in 19 months, compared to part-time students who can exit in 2.5 years. Nova is ranked #227 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.

#28 – Albertus Magnus College

Online Master’s in Liberal Studies

New Haven, Connecticut

Website

Albertus Magnus College - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
Albertus Magnus College offers an affordable master’s in interdisciplinary studies online degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,704

Ranked as one of the top online interdisciplinary studies programs, Albertus Magnus College offers a rich academic experience designed for the curious learner who enjoys deep inquiry into various disciplines such as arts and humanities, culture, religion, science, and technology. The program is geared towards working professionals who desire a flexible schedule. Students can choose from a mixture of enrollment types including fully online, hybrid, and in-person. Students receive close faculty mentoring, academic advising, and career counseling. Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree at the time of application. No test scores are required to apply. Albertus Magnus is ranked #88 in regional universities North by U.S. News and World Report.

#27 – Rutgers University

Online Master’s in Liberal Studies

Camden, New Jersey

Website

Rutgers University - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
Rutgers – a top ranked university for online master’s in interdisciplinary studies programs.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,145

The online graduate liberal studies program at Rutgers is one of the most prestigious online interdisciplinary studies programs in the country. The program was established in 1984 and features cross-disciplinary coursework in several areas across the institution, which allows for a deeply rich academic experience. The program is available online and attracts students from all over the United States. Faculty that teach online courses also teach on-campus classes and are highly qualified mentors and researchers. The program can be completed entirely online without visiting campus. Rutgers ranks in ten U.S. News and World Report categories including #63 in national universities.

#26 – Hollins University

Online Master’s in Liberal Studies

Roanoke, Virginia

Website

Hollins University - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
A top-ranked university with affordable online interdisciplinary programs.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,804

Hollins University offers a master’s in interdisciplinary studies online for professionals seeking a diverse curriculum delivered in convenient modalities, such as evening and online courses. The program emphasizes the liberal arts tradition of critical thinking, creativity, and writing. These skills can be utilized in a number of career paths. The program requires ten courses, two of which must be in the social sciences and humanities. Courses may include 20th century history, leaders in action, modern analysis, and politics and literature. Hollins University ranks in multiple U.S. News and World Report categories including #102 in national liberal arts colleges and #44 in best value schools.

#25 – University of Toledo

Online Master’s in Liberal Studies

Toledo, Ohio

Website

University of Toledo - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
University of Toledo – affordable options for online liberal studies.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,809

University of Toledo offers a liberal arts program designed for individuals seeking a master’s in interdisciplinary studies online degree. The online master’s in liberal arts requires a minimum of 33 credits of core and elective coursework. A mix of classes with online seminars cover a wide range of topics that help prepare students for careers in an equally wide range of industries. Required seminars cover topics in humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and both visual and performing arts. While the GRE is not required for admission, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. The University of Toledo ranks with U.S. News and World Report among top national universities and offers the #1 most affordable master’s in interdisciplinary studies online program on our list.

#24 – Eastern Mennonite University

Online Master’s in Interdisciplinary Studies

Harrisonburg, Virginia

Website

Eastern Mennonite University - 30 Affordable Masters Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs
Ranked with U.S. News! Eastern Mennonite University – a top choice for affordable master’s in interdisciplinary studies online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,590

Eastern Mennonite University offers an online interdisciplinary studies degree designed for students seeking a customized degree perfectly fit towards their academic or career pursuits. Students can choose from distinct, pre-built pathways, or may choose from courses across the institution’s various graduate departments and schools. Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree with a 2.5 minimum GPA. Application documents include a resume, two reference letters, personal statement, and transcripts. In addition to a generalist curriculum, students can choose to create one of 13 available unique concentrations. Eastern Mennonite University is ranked #31 in regional universities South according to U.S. News and World Report.

#23 – Niagara University

Online Master’s in Interdisciplinary Studies

Niagara University, New York

Website

Niagara University - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
Only 11 courses! Niagara University’s master’s in interdisciplinary studies online degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,525

Ranked as one of the most affordable online interdisciplinary studies programs in the country, Niagara University’s program offers 11 courses (33 credits) across a wide range of disciplines. In addition, the program offers a master’s in interdisciplinary studies in social justice that covers content in economics, history, philosophy, and religion. Admission requirements include an accredited undergraduate degree, personal statement, and two letters of recommendation. Applicants with GPAs under 3.0 are required to submit GRE scores older than five years. Niagara University ranks #23 in regional universities North and #7 in best value schools according to U.S. News and World Report.

#22 – Stony Brook University

Online Master’s in Liberal Studies

Stony Brook, New York

Website

Stony Brook University - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
Ranked and affordable online master’s in liberal studies! Stony Brook University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,558

Stony Brook University’s online interdisciplinary studies degree is an online master’s in liberal studies that is available both as a part-time or full-time program. Students may combine face-to-face with online courses, or take all of their courses online. The curriculum is designed to offer a solid foundation of professional skills that prove useful in a broad range of academic disciplines. In addition to the master’s degree, students may earn teacher certification by meeting requirements for a professional license. All courses are taught by Stony Brook’s esteemed faculty members. Stony Brook is fully accredited and ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, Stony Brook ranks 88th in best national universities and 139th best value schools.

#21 – Louisiana State University

Online Master’s in Liberal Arts

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Website

Louisiana State University - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
LSU – online master’s in liberal studies! Affordable and flexible!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,035

Louisiana State University’s master’s in liberal arts ranks as one of the top online interdisciplinary studies programs due to its diverse coursework and affordable tuition. Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA as well as a combined GRE score of at least 295. Lower GRE scores will be considered, depending on GPA. Students may be admitted on a provisional basis while waiting for GRE scores. Students can choose from career focus areas such as leadership, emerging technology, sport management, and analytics. Louisiana State University is ranked in several U.S. News and World Report categories such as #153 in national universities, #71 in top public schools, and #162 in best value schools.

#20 – Tiffin University

Online Master of Humanities

Tiffin, Ohio

Website

Tiffin University - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
100% online! Tiffin University’s online master’s in interdisciplinary studies program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,000

Tiffin University’s online master’s in interdisciplinary studies program consists of humanities courses tailored for students who are curious about the human condition. The program may be completed 100% online and includes focus areas like art and visual media, communication, creative writing, English, and film studies. Tiffin humanities instructors approach all subjects that deal with big questions about the way people engage the world as citizens. Tiffin is an affordable, accredited institution set in rural Ohio. The school ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 119th-156th best regional university in the Midwest and the 113th best top performer on social mobility.

#19 – SUNY College at Old Westbury

Online Master’s in Liberal Studies

Old Westbury, New York

Website

SUNY College at Old Westbury - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
Choose from various concentrations! SUNY College at Old Westbury’s online interdisciplinary studies programs.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,608

SUNY College at Old Westbury offers one of the top online interdisciplinary studies programs with multiple areas of concentration for working students. Students can choose a concentration in American studies, cultural studies, English literature, history, immigration studies, media studies, modern languages, social justice, and visual studies. Students are also welcome and encouraged to develop their own unique program. To apply, students must possess a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 minimum GPA. Application requirements include transcripts, admission essay, and two letters of recommendation. The GRE is not required to apply. SUNY Old Westbury is ranked ##136 in regional universities North by U.S. News and World Report.

#18 – Arizona State University

Online Master of Liberal Studies

Tempe, Arizona

Website

Arizona State University - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
ASU’s online interdisciplinary studies programs are highly affordable.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,608

For those seeking an online master’s in interdisciplinary studies, Arizona State University offers an online master’s in liberal studies. This fully online degree program consists of 10 classes that each run 7.5 weeks. Students must complete a total of 30 credits to earn their graduate degree. Courses one might choose to take while earning their liberal arts graduate degree at ASU cover topics like ethics, science and culture; film and media studies; religion, health and culture; and writing about social issues. Applicants are eligible for consideration for the program if they have earned a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited college or university and have a 3.0 GPA. ASU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 103rd best national university in the country.

#17 – SUNY College at Brockport

Online Master’s in Liberal Studies

Brockport, New York

Website

SUNY College at Brockport - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
SUNY at Brockport offers a liberal studies graduate degree that is affordable and accredited.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,292

SUNY College at Brockport offers an accredited online master’s in interdisciplinary studies (liberal studies) with a multidisciplinary approach. The degree can be completed entirely online and examines contemporary issues from the perspectives of fine arts, humanities, and social and natural sciences. Students must complete a total of 30 credits to meet degree requirements. The number of credits includes 12 major departmental credits and 18 elective credits. Admission to SUNY College’s master’s in liberal studies requires an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year institution. An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 and three letters of recommendation are also needed. SUNY Brockport ranks #83 in best regional universities in the North and #65 in best value schools.

#16 – Thomas Edison State University

Online Master’s in Liberal Studies

Trenton, New Jersey

Website

Thomas Edison State University - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
A master’s in liberal studies online! Thomas Edison State University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,024

The affordable online master’s in interdisciplinary studies program at Thomas Edison State University yields an MALS degree. The program, designed for working professionals interested in a rigorous liberal arts study, can be completed entirely online. Courses cover topics like digital humanities, industrial organizational psychology, the liberal arts and professional life, and the species and community. A total of 36 credits must be completed to meet the online master’s in liberal studies degree requirements. However, up to 12 credits may be transferred into the program. Thomas Edison State is a fully accredited institution that has also earned recognition from major publications like U.S. News and World Report.

#15 – University of Michigan

Online Master’s in Liberal Studies

Flint, Michigan

Website

University of Michigan - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
University of Michigan’s online master’s in interdisciplinary studies has a specialty in American Studies.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,857

The University of Michigan at Flint offers an online master’s in interdisciplinary studies with a specialty in American Studies. The program offers a unique degree that focuses on the American experience through the lens of culture, philosophy, race, gender, politics, religion, and the like. Students complete a thesis tailored to their personal and career interests and present it to faculty. Learning outcomes include critical thinking, research and analysis, writing, and oral communication. The program is administered by the Rackham School of Graduate Studies and can be completed online. The institution ranks #298 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.

#14 – Kent State University

Online Master of Liberal Studies

Kent, Ohio

Website

Kent State University - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
100% online master’s in liberal studies at Kent Studies University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,766

Kent State University offers a master’s in interdisciplinary studies online program that can be completed 100% online by completing 30 credits. What makes the liberal studies graduate degree at Kent State unique is that you may take courses from any college or university and apply them toward the degree requirements. The program also has among the fewest required courses, and a liberal studies essay course or internship. With minimal core course requirements, students may customize their online degree toward areas of interest and to better align with career goals. Kent State also ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 217th best national university and 109th top public school.

#13 – Indiana University

Online Master’s in Liberal Studies

Bloomington, Indiana

Website

Indiana University - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
Indiana University offers an online master’s in liberal studies. Affordable and flexibly designed.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,873

Indiana University offers an online master’s in interdisciplinary studies consisting of 34-36 credits of diverse coursework. In addition to the general program coursework, students may choose to complete an online certificate in a specific discipline including biology, communication, chemistry, history, literature, mathematics, and political science. The completion of these certificates within the degree allows these professionals to bring new concepts to their teaching and insight into their careers. In addition, these students may become eligible to teach at the two-year college level through certificate completion. Indiana University is ranked #76 in top national universities by U.S. News and World Report.

#12 – University of Memphis

Online Master’s in Liberal Studies

Memphis, Tennessee

Website

University of Memphis - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
University of Memphis requires no GRE for the online master’s in liberal studies.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,746

The University of Memphis offers an online interdisciplinary studies degree that allows students to customize their graduate degrees. The 33-credit program includes a wide range of interdisciplinary classes featuring arts, humanities, and social sciences curriculum designed to increase critical thinking and creativity through deep inquiry and discourse with peers and professors. Admission involves completing the graduate school application in addition to the MALS application. No GRE test scores are required to apply and be admitted. The University of Memphis is a nationally ranked institution according to U.S. News and World Report. It ranks #98 in social mobility and #126 in top public schools.

#11 – University of Southern Indiana

Online Master’s in Liberal Studies

Evansville, Indiana

Website

University of Southern Indiana - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
University of Southern Indiana’s affordable online master’s in interdisciplinary studies is designed for working professionals.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,046

The University of Southern Indiana offers an online master’s in interdisciplinary studies that can be completed entirely online. Designed for the working professional, the program includes an interdisciplinary curriculum that fosters personal and professional development in the liberal arts tradition. Moreover, students can choose specific classes according to their professional needs. In short, the program is completely flexible and diverse in order to meet the needs of a student seeking a rigorous graduate degree. The 33-credit program is divided into 15 core credits and 15-18 elective credits. Southern Indiana is ranked #98 in regional universities Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.

#10 – University of Maine

Online Master’s in Interdisciplinary Studies: Maine Studies

Orono, Maine

Website

University of Maine - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
For under 10K per year, you can earn a master’s in interdisciplinary studies at University of Maine.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,347

The University of Maine offers an accredited online master’s in interdisciplinary studies that emphasizes the study of Maine. In this uniquely designed interdisciplinary studies program, students study the state of Maine through classes in folklore, geography, history, literature, political science, and other disciplines. Students participate in a number of projects and interdisciplinary seminars. Admission to the program requires an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum GPA of 3.0. The University of Maine ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 206th best national university and 105th top public school. Also, several online master’s programs have earned top rankings with U.S. News and World Report.

#9 – University of Maryland Global Campus

Online Master’s in Interdisciplinary Studies in Management

Adelphi, Maryland

Website

University of Maryland Global Campus - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
UMGC offers an affordable online master’s in interdisciplinary studies online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,910

The University of Maryland Global Campus offers a master’s in interdisciplinary studies online degree with a unique specialization in management. The 36-credit hour program covers the fundamentals in human resources, information systems, marketing, and project management. The program prepares students with the essential skills needed for managers in every type of organization. Specialization courses cover topics like employee and labor relations, foundations of project management, marketing management, and organizational development and change. UMGC also ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, recent rankings include #136-#176 in best regional universities in the North and #9 in most innovative schools.

#8 – Texas State University

Online Master’s in Interdisciplinary Studies

San Marcos, Texas

Website

Texas Tech University - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
Texas Tech – a highly ranked school for affordable interdisciplinary studies online programs.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,664

Texas State University offers a master’s in interdisciplinary studies online designed for the working professional. The 39-credit program is individualized for every student based on his or her career and academic needs. Courses cover content in disciplines such as communication studies, criminal justice, philosophy, psychology, sociology, and much more. Students can also earn certificates in certified public management, corporate communications and training, and professional ethics. Applicants are required to have a bachelor’s degree from a nationally or regionally accredited institution. GRE scores are only required for those with a GPA of less than 2.75. TSU is ranked #298 in national universities according to U.S. News and World Report.

#7 – Liberty University

Online Master’s in Interdisciplinary Studies

Lynchburg, Virginia

Website

Liberty University - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
Ranked and affordable! Liberty’s master’s in interdisciplinary studies online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,400

Liberty University offers a master’s in interdisciplinary studies online for those who are interested in a broad-based degree with flexible coursework and online delivery. Liberty’s offering features 31 credits and can be completed in just one year. The program is a great way to explore different disciplines while earning a graduate degree that can increase career mobility and pay. The program requires that students possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. The GRE is not required for admission. Liberty is a Christian institution and infuses religious teachings into its curriculum. The university ranks in four U.S. News and World Report categories, including #389 in national universities.

#6 – Southern Utah University

Online Master’s in Interdisciplinary Studies

Cedar City, Utah

Website

Southern Utah University - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
17 specialty tracks! Southern Utah University’s online master’s in interdisciplinary studies program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,338

Southern Utah University provides working professionals with one of the top online interdisciplinary studies programs due to its affordable tuition and rigorous coursework taught by highly qualified faculty. Students can design their own unique degree according to their interests or career needs, or may choose from 17 specialty tracks across a wide range of disciplines. Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. Application materials include resume, transcripts, and personal statement. Students with GPAs less than 3.0 must submit GRE scores. Students have a maximum of six years to complete the 30-credit program. Southern Utah University ranks in eight U.S. News and World report categories including #62 in regional universities West.

#5 – Texas Tech University

Online Master’s in Interdisciplinary Studies

Lubbock, Texas

Website

Texas Tech University - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
Texas Tech’s online master’s in interdisciplinary studies online degree is highly affordable.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,181

Ranked #5 on our online interdisciplinary studies programs, Texas Tech University offers a 36-credit program that features a broad curriculum modeled in the liberal arts tradition of developing critical inquiry through investigation of several concepts in the arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences. The program may be a good fit for those with broad academic interests and career goals that require a customized degree path outside of the traditional academic model, which requires students to specialize in one discipline. The degree can be completed entirely online. Texas Tech ranks in seven U.S. News and World Report categories including #217 in national universities.

#4 – University of North Texas

Online Master’s in Interdisciplinary Studies

Denton, Texas

Website

University of North Texas - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
UNT offers an affordable liberal studies online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,788

The University of North Texas offers an online interdisciplinary studies degree culminating in a Master of Arts or Master of Science degree. Students can design their own program or choose a concentration in advanced analytics, applied data science, applied gerontology, computational linguistics, interactive and digital communication, or health data analytics. The program provides students with valuable workplace skills and knowledge as they are able to develop insight from multiple perspectives, which increases capacity to innovate and problem solve. The program consists of ten courses (30 credits). The University of North Texas ranks in six different U.S. News and World Report categories including #44 in social mobility.

#3 – Clayton State University

Online Master’s in Liberal Studies

Morrow, Georgia

Website

Clayton State University - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
Clayton State University’s online master’s in liberal studies is an affordable degree!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,234

Clayton State University offers an online interdisciplinary studies degree designed for working professionals seeking a fulfilling academic experience that allows a great deal of latitude in designing a personal curriculum. Students do have the option of choosing a concentration in one of several areas, including English, history, liberal arts, math, and philosophy. Courses include classics in philosophy, great books, great works in art history, and history of mathematics. Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. No test scores are required to apply for admission. Clayton State is ranked #103 in regional universities South by U.S. News and World Report.

#2 – University of South Dakota

Online Master’s in Interdisciplinary Studies

Vermillion, South Dakota

Website

University of South Dakota - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
Full- and part-time options! USD’s online master’s in interdisciplinary studies online degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,043

The online interdisciplinary studies degree at University of South Dakota is an online master’s degree geared toward adult learners seeking career advancement. Students may enroll in the online master’s in interdisciplinary studies program full-time or part-time. Classes are conveniently structured to accommodate working students. Also, classes cover a wide range of disciplines that allow students to gain a solid academic foundation in business, education, and even health services administration. Courses cover topics like ethical leadership, independent study, and research methods. To graduate, students must complete either an internship or master’s thesis. USD ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 249th best national university and 121st top public school.

#1 – Fort Hays State University

Online Master’s in Liberal Studies

Hays, Kansas

Website

Fort Hays State University - 30 Affordable Master’s Interdisciplinary Studies Online Programs 2021
#1 most affordable master’s in interdisciplinary studies online program – Fort Hays State University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $4,356

Fort Hays State University offers a master’s in interdisciplinary studies online featuring 31 credits delivered in a convenient way for working professionals seeking career advancement and personal development offered through a rigorous graduate degree. The 31 credits are composed of 10 credits of core classes and 21 elective credits. Students have a great deal of latitude in choosing courses across the graduate school curriculum. They may also choose from concentrations in corporate communications, global studies, health sciences, literary arts, political leadership, and public administration. Fort Hays State University ranks in three U.S. News and World Report categories including #112 in regional universities Midwest.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do with a master’s in interdisciplinary studies online degree?

With a master’s in interdisciplinary studies online degree, graduates will feel prepared for work in various industries. For example, graduates often go on to work in advertising, education, human resources, journalism, ministry, nonprofit organizations, and publishing, among other fields. Graduates of interdisciplinary programs also seek career advancement within their field, taking on leadership roles, while others pursue post-master’s degrees.

Below are several job opportunities one might seek after earning a master’s in interdisciplinary studies online degree.

Community service manager: Community service managers or social service mangers work with stakeholders to implement social programs for citizens in the area. They often work in managerial roles and graduate degrees are required.

Editor: Whether you work for a publishing agency or magazine, editors review content and implement changes, such as grammar, punctuation, and verification of facts. Editors evaluate submissions for structure and layout, as well as content, and prepare pieces for publication.

News correspondent: Correspondents and news analysts research assigned subject matter and conduct interviews in order to build a narrative and story. They draft articles and scripts, preparing them to be shared to the public.

Postsecondary educator: With a master’s in interdisciplinary studies online degree, you may be qualified to teach. Postsecondary instructors teach students at technical, vocational, and community college settings. A graduate degree is also required.

What is the job outlook for individuals with a master’s in interdisciplinary studies online degree?

Graduates of master’s in interdisciplinary studies online degree programs are often qualified to work in various careers since there is no specialized training in a particular field. In fact, it is the versatility of the degree that helps a graduate’s marketability. Students enrolled in an interdisciplinary studies online program develop communication and critical thinking skills, hone their research and writing abilities, and improve their problem-solving techniques. These skills are important in any area of work.

Since graduates of online liberal studies or interdisciplinary studies programs are qualified for various career paths, the job outlook is favorable. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports employment of social and community service managers is projected to grow 17 percent through 2029, which is much faster than most occupations.

In addition to community and service managers, other career paths for graduates of interdisciplinary studies online programs should also see favorable job growth. In fact, employment of postsecondary teachers is projected to grow nine percent through 2029, though growth varies by academic field.

Editors and news analysts show a slight decline in employment growth over the next decade; however, the outlook varies by profession. Editorial roles at newspapers and magazines will decrease as a decline in traditional print tempers job growth. However, as digital publication grows, social media editors and other occupations should see a more favorable job growth.

How much money can I earn with a master’s in interdisciplinary studies online degree?

There are several career paths one might take with a master’s in interdisciplinary studies online degree. The degree is highly versatile and prepares students for leadership roles in community service, education, human resources, journalism, and publishing, among other industries.

Editors: According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for editors was $61,370 as of May 2019. The lowest ten percent working in this occupation earned less than $33,000, while the highest ten percent earned more than $122,000.

Postsecondary educators: The median annual pay for postsecondary teachers was just under $80,000 per year, according to BLS. The lowest ten percent earned less than $41,000 while the highest ten percent earned over $174,000. The top three highest-paying disciplines for postsecondary teachers are law, economics, and engineering. Law teachers earned median annual wages of $113,530, economics teachers earned $104,370, and engineering teachers earned $101,010.

Social and community service managers: BLS reports the median annual wage for social and community service managers in May 2019 was approximately $67,000. However, wages vary among industry. The top industry employing community service and social service managers was local government, excluding education and hospitals. The median annual wage for this industry is $85,550. Also, the lowest ten percent of earners in this occupation made $41,220, while the highest ten percent earned over $112,000.

What are the admission requirements for master’s in interdisciplinary studies online programs?

Admission requirements for master’s in interdisciplinary studies online programs vary by school and program. While some programs require similar criteria for admission, such as an earned bachelor’s degree, more competitive schools may ask that additional requirements be met. For many of the programs on our list, an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university is a requirement for admission. However, some programs may not require that a regionally accredited college awarded the bachelor’s degree.

Most of the programs on our list require a regionally accredited bachelor’s degree. Few ask for a nationally required bachelor’s degree, though these schools and programs do exist. The bachelor’s degree does not need to be in a particular area of study. In fact, most master’s in interdisciplinary studies online programs ask for only an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. This means any major will be accepted. Students may earn a bachelor’s degree in humanities, natural sciences, or social sciences.

In addition to the bachelor’s degree requirement, the undergraduate GPA is important when evaluating admission to online interdisciplinary studies programs. Some top-tier schools and programs ask for competitive undergraduate GPAs, such as a 3.0 or better.

Other admission requirements for interdisciplinary studies online graduate programs include letters of recommendation, internship or work experience, and a written statement of purpose or goals.

Are there professional associations students enrolled in interdisciplinary studies online programs can join?

While pursuing a master’s in interdisciplinary studies online degree, students may choose to join a professional association to gain valuable networking opportunities and enjoy other benefits. These associations offer opportunities for students to collaborate with fellow students and professionals with similar degrees. The following organizations offer memberships to students enrolled in graduate interdisciplinary studies online programs.

Alliance for Liberal Learning (ALL): The Alliance for Liberal Learning promotes collaboration among liberal learning institutions in cooperation of addressing common issues faced. ALL sponsors workshops and events, offers educational seminars, and provides online networks for members. Also, the organization hosts yearly conferences designed for networking and education.

Association for Interdisciplinary Studies (AIS): The AIS or Association for Interdisciplinary Studies provides a wide range of resources to its members. AIS promotes idea exchange with a collective group of administrators, scholars, and teachers. Membership benefits include access to job listings, newsletters, and scholarly journals.

Association of Graduate Liberal Studies Programs (AGLSP): The Association of Graduate Liberal Studies Programs was founded in 1975. This international organization is made up of more than 85 public and private institutional members, including small liberal arts colleges, mid-sized institutions, and research universities. Members receive access to annual conferences, newsletters, and workshops, as well as networking opportunities.

BCO Staff
November 2020

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This concludes our list of 30 affordable master’s in interdisciplinary studies online programs of 2021.