Bachelor in Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies (Bachelor's)

For Bachelor in Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies (Bachelor's), tuition is Tuition and fees are subject to change and are based on the number of credits taken per semester..

This bachelor's degree allows students to design a custom major combining multiple disciplines. The programme is intended for topics not covered by existing majors at the college. Students create a focused study plan around a specific theme or set of questions. The approach emphasizes self-directed learning and interdisciplinary integration.

The major requires a minimum of 120 credits. Students develop a personalized course plan approved by faculty advisors, including coursework from multiple departments.

Graduates are prepared to pursue careers or further study in fields aligned with their customized academic focus.

Applicants must be admitted to Simpson College. A formal proposal for the independent major must be submitted and approved by the academic department and the academic review committee.

The programme totals about 120 credit hours. on-campus, full-time, typical duration four years. For international students, tuition is well above the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 89% of applicants.

Simpson College’s liberal arts tradition provides the foundation for a broad academic offering across on-campus, online and graduate study. Undergraduate students can choose from more than 80 majors, minors, concentrations and pre-professional programs. Academic areas include business and economics, chemistry and physics, life sciences, mathematics and computer science, media and communication, music, theatre arts, teacher education, and political science, sociology and criminal justice. Honors students add interdisciplinary courses and research fellowships, while the Center for Exploratory Studies helps undecided students find an academic direction.

Learning combines theory with practical application through research, study abroad, internships and other immersive experiences. A 13:1 student-teacher ratio supports personalized attention, while faculty and staff assist students with classroom work and career planning. The 85-acre campus sits in the heart of Indianola, a central Iowa city with housing, dining, clubs, performing and creative arts, 22 varsity sports, intramural activities, parks and trails. Des Moines is about 20 minutes away, giving students access to Iowa’s capital city while retaining a residential campus setting.

International students can engage with Simpson’s Office of International Education and Study Abroad through May Term travel courses and semester programs. Simpson offers access to more than 60 ISEP programs in dozens of countries, plus faculty-led courses in locations including Brazil, Italy, Japan, Spain and New Zealand. Study-abroad scholarships include more than 40 Walt Scholarships annually. Horizons supports program applications, passport and health information, and scholarship submissions. Provider deadlines vary, so early planning matters.