Bachelor’s in General Studies Program Guide

A bachelor’s degree in general studies includes a multidisciplinary curriculum. Students explore the arts, sciences, and humanities to gain a well-rounded and balanced education. A general studies program focuses on marketable and transferable skills like analytical thinking and communication.

This degree can lead to entry-level careers in many fields, including business and education.

In this guide, readers can discover how to choose the right program, how long it will take to complete their degree, and what to expect in terms of admission requirements. Readers can also find information about potential classes, concentrations, and careers for a general studies major.

Students who earn an on-campus or online degree in general studies develop many skills, such as those related to oral and written communication, critical thinking, data analysis, and research. Students can select courses based on themes or topics that appeal to them.

The curriculum of a general studies program often includes science, arts, math, and humanities courses.

A bachelor’s degree in general studies prepares students for several entry-level careers, including legal assistant, lobbyist, and administrative assistant. Because general studies programs take a multidisciplinary approach, students are less restricted in their career choices after graduation.

General studies programs teach critical skills in communication and critical thinking that employers seek in potential applicants. Graduates enter the workforce with competencies in math, science, and the humanities.

General studies degrees also offer a high level of customization. If students know their target career path, they can choose courses that teach career-specific skills and competencies. Alternatively, if learners are unsure about the type of job they want to pursue, they can select a broad course of study.

Below, readers can find information about potential courses and concentrations for general studies programs. They can also discover potential careers for general studies majors.

Students pursuing a bachelor’s in general studies have ample customization options. Students can pursue topics that interest them and build skills for whatever career path they want to pursue. Typically, students take courses across many disciplines, including math, science, and the humanities.

Below are examples of courses and concentrations that students may encounter while earning an on-campus or online degree in general studies. Keep in mind that different general studies programs may offer different courses and customization options.

Students who earn a degree in general studies prepare for careers in many fields, including business, education, politics, and law. Skills learned in a general studies program translate to almost any entry-level job that does not require highly specialized training.

Below are several examples of potential careers for general studies graduates.

Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics and PayScale

Students should always research potential general studies programs before applying. First, applicants should look for institutional or programmatic accreditation to ensure that the college meets the educational standards set by the U.S. Department of Education.

Next, students should research program length, curriculum, and the format of the program (online, on-campus, or hybrid delivery) to make sure the program meets their specific needs.

Readers can find more information about choosing an online bachelor’s degree in general studies on this page.

Students interested in earning a bachelor’s in general studies should have a high school or GED diploma. Some institutions may also utilize a minimum GPA cutoff, which is typically between 2.0 and 3.0.

In general, applicants must submit official transcripts from previously attended institutions, standardized test scores, and letters of recommendation. Colleges that do not require standardized test scores often ask applicants to take a placement test instead.

Students can find more information about a college’s application requirements by visiting its webpage or reaching out to its admissions department.

Most full-time students complete their bachelor’s degree in general studies in four years. Part-time students need more time to complete their degree; however, they can continue to work while enrolled.

Students with transfer credits from previous institutions, certain work or life experience, or military training can often graduate more quickly. Some colleges offer accelerated programs, which allow full-time students to take more credits each year and expedite graduation.

Depending on their target career path, students may need to earn certification or licensure after graduation. Readers should research specific job requirements before applying.

The cost of a bachelor’s degree in general studies differs depending on the type of institution (public vs. private or in-state vs. out-of-state schools) and a student’s enrollment status (full-time vs. part-time learning). Students interested in an online bachelor’s degree in general studies may qualify for in-state tuition, even if they live in a different state.

In-state public universities often offer the lowest tuition rates. According to CollegeBoard, in-state undergraduate students paid an average of $10,440 in tuition at public universities during the 2019-2020 school year. Their out-of-state counterparts paid an average of $26,820.