The General Studies Degree
The General Studies Degree gives you a unique opportunity to develop a multi-disciplinary and carefully focused course of study which fulfills traditional university requirements while meeting your specific goals for a college degree. General Studies Degrees consist of a required number of credit hours earned in the College of Arts and Sciences complemented by a full range of electives earned in any of the colleges of the University.
Associate of Arts in General Studies
Earning the Associate of Arts in General Studies (A.A.G.S.) may help you advance in your professional or military career, receive certification, expand your employment options, take the first step toward advanced studies, and build your confidence. Once you have completed your A.A.G.S., you may decide to complete the Bachelor of General Studies (B.G.S.).
Bachelor of General Studies
Completing the B.G.S. gives you basic preparation for many careers and graduate programs. B.G.S. graduates work in various professional fields, including education, law, government, health care, real estate, social service, and private industry. Many B.G.S. students have gone on to graduate programs such as anthropology, business, divinity studies, education, fine arts, international affairs, law, library science, management, nursing, public health, and social work. B.G.S. graduates have earned master's degrees and doctorates at Indiana University and other universities.
Your Goals
Students enter the General Studies Degree program at various points in their personal, academic, and work lives. Similarly, they have a wide range of reasons for needing the degree.
Where are you on your educational path?
I need a bachelor's degree to qualify for professional certification.
I need a credential to get a job or advance in my career.
I plan to go to graduate or professional school at some point down the road.
I want the sense of achievement and personal satisfaction that comes with earning a degree.
Your Pathway
If you're thinking about earning your bachelor's degree, consider the IU South Bend General Studies Degree program.
Transfer up to 64 college credits from most community college associate degree programs. A completed associate degree is a strong indicator of future success in completing a general studies degree.
Transfer credits, or take additional courses, from an accredited four-year institution.
Supplement credits you earn from your course work with credits for exams and military or life experience.
Take courses online to supplement your campus experience.
Pursue a minor or concentrate in a field that best suits your needs and interests.
Your Success
However you define success, the General Studies Degree Program can help.
Become knowledgeable in arts and humanities, science and mathematics, and social and behavioral sciences. General studies is a multidisciplinary degree, making you competitive in many job markets.
Prepare for post-baccalaureate study. More than 40 percent of those completing the B.G.S. go on for advanced degrees. Fields include law, theology, library or museum management, adult education, teaching, health and life sciences, social work, business, computer science, and more. More than 80 percent of B.G.S. alumni who go to graduate or professional school complete their degree.
Contact Information
General Studies Degree Program
Wiekamp Hall 2216
(574) 520-4260
intouch@iusb.edu
If you have a disability and need assistance, special arrangements can be made to accommodate most needs.
