Nontraditional Studies

Who We Are

The Department of Nontraditional Studies is designed for students who want a more flexible and personalized academic experience. Whether you’re interested in creating a customized major, preparing for a graduate or professional program that crosses multiple fields, or completing your degree to support your personal or career goals, Nontraditional Studies offers pathways to help you succeed.

Our Mission

The Department of Nontraditional Studies oversees the general and interdisciplinary studies degree programs, experienced learners programs, and academic outreach. The primary mission of Nontraditional Studies is to engage students in creative, flexible, and individualized learning pathways that promote innovation, successful degree attainment, and professional development.

A Message From the Director

Welcome to the Department of Nontraditional Studies. I am so privileged and delighted that I get to serve as program director. I am tremendously proud of our department and its vital contributions to the overall mission of Undergraduate Studies and Arkansas State University. The core of our mission is to create a learning environment that educates, enhances, and enriches. Everything we do aims toward one outcome: student success.

The Department of Nontraditional Studies is experiencing an exciting time of growth and progress. Opportunities are limitless for our students as we foster their potential and brilliance. With our emphasis on transformative learning, study abroad opportunities and community service, students in our program experience the world beyond traditional classroom settings.

Together our faculty, staff, students and graduates comprise a vibrant community of scholars dedicated to academic excellence, global and civic engagement, and impactful and innovative change.

I am eager that you have taken the time to learn more about us. It is my hope that you find your academic home with us. I invite you to explore the rest of our website or connect with us via social media to see what exciting options Nontraditional Studies has to offer you.

Dr. Shaquita Renelique,

Program Director

Dr. Renelique serves as the Associate Dean of University College and Director of the First Year Experience and Nontraditional Studies programs. A proud alumna, she completed her bachelor's, master's, specialist, and doctoral degrees at Arkansas State University.

Older graduate smiles at camera in cap and gown.

Prior Learning Assessment

At A-State, we know learning doesn’t only happen in class. Through Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), you can earn college credit for knowledge gained from work, military service, training programs, certifications, and more.

General Studies

The Bachelor of General Studies is a multidisciplinary degree that helps you build practical skills and knowledge for today’s job market. You create your own course of study by choosing two concentrations from majors or minors across A-State.

Twins do homework on a computer in the library.

Interdisciplinary Studies

As an Interdisciplinary Studies major, you design a personalized academic path built around a central theme that matters to you. This program helps you develop problem-solving skills by connecting ideas from multiple disciplines beyond traditional majors.

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