Our integrative, cross-disciplinary curriculum goes beyond traditional academic models to include active learning experiences and industry partnerships.
Why the Integrative Sciences Initiative?
Our Integrative Sciences Initiative (ISI) curriculum features inquiry-driven and team science approaches to learning that will prepare you to tackle global challenges alongside a vibrant community of interdisciplinary scholars. You can develop creative research and problem-solving skills through our innovative cross-disciplinary courses and labs, which utilize the advanced technology and equipment found only in Woodson Hall.
Expand your ability to Think and Do through undergraduate research opportunities in areas focused on molecular biomimicry, molecular metabolism, and accelerated and predictive technologies in a high-powered educational and research environment. And one of the best parts? You’ll be prepared to join an increasingly competitive global marketplace in need of your interdisciplinary skills and knowledge. Through professional development opportunities, we’ll connect you with industry partners to set you up for post-graduation success.
You may also be selected to join the Integrative Sciences Scholars, a program that brings together a cohort of multidisciplinary students each year. ISI courses, however, are open to every NC State student interested in embracing connections across courses through interdisciplinary scholarship.
Mentorship
ISI faculty and industry advisors will equip students with the necessary skills and experience to stand out in a competitive job market.
Partnerships
Funded research and internships will further ISI and industry partnerships in North Carolina’s Research Triangle Park and nationally.
Experiential Education
Key partners will expose students to applied science and engineering, while developing molecular-focused education and training campuswide.
Integrative Sciences First Year Program
As part of the Integrative Sciences First Year Experience, you’ll be able to take foundational courses in biological sciences, chemistry and math through an interdisciplinary lens. You’ll gain exposure to active-learning classrooms and collaborative teaching laboratories in Woodson Hall. Our instructors are committed to working across disciplinary boundaries to create a unique experience that connects courses with the common thread of using molecules to tackle grand challenges..
We are developing a new two-credit course that will orient students to NC State and serve as a gateway to the molecular life sciences. Additionally, our faculty are collaborating to design courses beyond the first year that apply concepts from the first year experience to understand more complex systems. Further collaboration with humanities and social sciences programs will provide opportunities to place the molecular sciences within the context of broader societal issues.
“We’re leveraging industry and partners to ensure that our ISI curriculum is preparing the workforce of tomorrow.”
Joshua Pierce
Executive Director Integrative Sciences Initiative
Showcasing Interdisciplinary Possibilities
The Integrative Sciences Initiative (ISI) seeks to transform education through promoting scholarly collaboration across disciplines. In summer 2025, ISI spearheaded efforts for change through a series of workshops designed to bring faculty, staff and students from across the university — as well as from other institutions — together to imagine the future of STEM in higher education.
