Integrative Studies
The Integrative Studies Program is at the heart of Otterbein’s commitment to liberal learning and is the largest component of general education at the University. The Program aims to prepare Otterbein undergraduates for the challenges and complexity of a 21st century world. It foregrounds interdisciplinary and integrative skills, competencies, and ways of knowing and is committed to the premise that one's learning should serve and shape one's chosen responsibilities in and to the world.
The IS program is guided by a set of five learning goals:
- To inspire intellectual curiosity about the world as it is and a deeper understanding of the global condition.
- To assist students in cultivating intercultural knowledge and competencies.
- To promote active and critical reflection on the human self and its place in the world.
- To challenge students to critically examine their ethical responsibilities and choices in both local and global contexts.
- To encourage purposeful public engagement and social responsibility.
First begun in 1969, the IS program has repeatedly been honored for its commitment to integrative and liberal education. Recent honors include:
- Otterbein's Integrative Studies Program Featured in AAC&U
The program was the feature story in the August edition of the Association of American Colleges & Universities, AAC&U News. Click here to read the article. - McGregor Fund 2008
Received $250,000 grant for The McGregor Fund Transformation Project: Supporting Students' Ability to Integrate Learning. The purposes of this project are to re-envision, re-invigorate, and reinforce an integrative curriculum that invites students to explore questions relevant for today's global society and to focus on the structured integration of students' core curriculum, their disciplinary major and their co-curricular experiences at Otterbein University, giving them a unique position in a competitive world.
Learn more about the national attention that our Integrative Studies Program is receiving here.