Is ISP easy? Lots of people think that because ISP tends not to use textbooks, relying on assessment and evaluation rather than traditional grading, that the Program is "easy." However, a great deal of reading, writing, and discussion is required of students, and the topics are ones that require critical thought. Students are challenged to think about things they might never have questioned before, and to question their position on subjects about which they previously felt strongly.  

Is ISP an honors program? No. Permission of the department is required to register, but students who participate in the program have a wide range of abilities and talents. The close interaction with each other and with the faculty allow the students to be challenged at their own level. ISP does, however, fulfill credits within the Honors Program at UND, so students can choose to participate in ISP and earn credit toward an Honors major at the same time.  

Can I take classes outside ISP? Certainly! Many students do. Some students want to continue their studies in math or a foreign language, or there might be a class a student wants to take to explore an interest in a possible major. There are many classes available outside the Program which meet at times when ISP students are not in class, making it easy to find a class to take while still participating in ISP. Students then get a chance to see what a traditional class is like while still participating in the program.

Can I participate in ISP if I've already taken college classes? Absolutely! If you have taken college classes but still need to work on fulfilling required Essential Studies credits, you can participate in the program to start, continue, or complete your work on Essential Studies course work.