Students seeking an interdisciplinary degree that would prepare them for a number of different careers might be interested in an online general studies bachelor degree. As the name implies, there isn’t necessarily one specific subject that general studies majors study. Rather, they can gain knowledge in a variety of disciplines in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences fields. This can ultimately prepare them for many different careers and graduate programs in professional fields like education, law, government, healthcare, real estate, and social service.
Why a Bachelor’s Degree?
There are many reasons why students pursue online general studies degree programs. They might need a bachelor’s degree to qualify for professional certification or to advance in their career. They might have an associate degree
or are a few credits shy of their bachelor’s and finally want to finish it. Or, they might be planning on earning a master’s degree or going to a professional school. A bachelor’s degree in general studies can help lay the foundation for these career and personal goals.
Getting Into a Bachelor’s Degree Program
Each school has its own requirements for application. Though this is what you can generally expect to need for a bachelor’s degree in general studies:
- High school diploma or its equivalent
- SAT or ACT score
- Transcripts from any previously attended institutions
- Letters of recommendation
Inside a General Studies Bachelor’s Degree Program
Bachelor’s degree programs take about four years to complete, though this may be longer or shorter depending on the student’s prior education and work experience. During a general studies program, also sometimes called liberal studies, students can expect to take courses in a variety of disciplines, including business, computer science, criminal justice, English, foreign language, history, math, fine arts, natural sciences, and social sciences. They may also have the opportunity to specialize in a particular field, or tailor the program to fit their needs or interests.
Students can expect to take writing- and research-intensive courses during a bachelor’s in general studies. Assignments, lectures, and communication between professors and students can be completed online through an online learning platform like Blackboard. Depending on the course, lectures may be live or available online for viewing on the student’s own time.
What’s Next for General Studies Bachelor’s Degree Holders?
Graduates of general studies bachelor’s degrees have cultivated a breadth of knowledge in the social sciences, natural sciences, and humanities fields. This can lend itself to any number of entry-level positions, especially those where communication and problem-solving skills are needed, in fields such as education, government, or business. Those already in the field may be able to leverage their degree for a promotion or pay raise.
Graduates would also be prepared for continued study in a graduate program of professional field. Potential areas include education, law, government, business, computer science, public health, social work, library science, or management. This is a common path for graduates. At the Indiana University South Bend, for example, more than 80% of its Bachelor of General Studies alumni go to graduate or professional school.