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General Studies Degree Program
 
 
   
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What can I do with a general studies degree?
General studies graduates have pursued careers in dozens of fields and have used their degrees to continue their education in graduate and professional schools.

How long does it take to earn a general studies degree?
The amount of time depends on the number of credit hours you've already earned and may apply toward your general studies degree, the type of general studies degree you're pursuing (associate or bachelor's), and the amount of time you devote to your course work. Your general studies academic advisor can work with you to plan a course of study that suits your schedule.

I've earned college or university credits before. May I transfer these previously earned credits to my Indiana University degree?
Yes, if the college or university you attended is accredited by a regional association (for example, the North Central Association). Once we've received your credentials and the IUSB Office of Admissions has evaluated your official transcripts, you will receive a Credit Transfer Report (CTR). At that time, contact our office to schedule an appointment; we will show you how your previous courses meet degree requirements and indicate the types of courses you must still complete to earn your degree.

I've served in the military. How may credits based on my military service apply toward my degree?
Indiana University adheres to the American Council on Education's Guide to Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Services in granting credit on the basis of education gained through military service. To receive credit for military service, you must submit copies of your official release from the military (DD214) to the IUSB Office of Admissions.

How many previously earned college or university credits may I apply toward the degree?
If you are pursuing an associate degree, you may apply up to 45 transfer credit hours toward your degree. If you are pursuing a bachelor's degree, you may apply up to 90 transfer credit hours toward your degree.
Please note:  We apply transfer credit hours only if they fit into the general studies degree plan.

Does IUSB grant credit for the CLEP or DANTES exams?
IUSB awards credit for certain Advanced Placement Examinations (AP), College-Level Examination Programs (CLEP), Defense Activity for Nontraditional Education Support (DANTES), or Regents (Excelsior) College exams.

I've had significant work experience and informal instruction in particular areas. If I take courses in these areas, I will already be familiar with what is being taught. May I receive credit based on my life experiences?
Yes, you may receive credit for your life experiences, which we call self-acquired competency (SAC) credit. To receive credit, your experience must equate to college level learning.  You will be required to submit a learning portfolio documenting your experience.  The portfolio will be evaluated by a faculty member in the corresponding field of study.

What are course distribution requirements, and which courses must I take to fulfill them?
The phrase "course distribution requirements" indicates that, to earn a general studies degree, you must earn credits in three learning areas: arts and humanities, science and mathematics, and social and behavioral sciences. You must also earn elective credits.

Indiana University South Bend
1700 Mishawaka Ave. P.O. Box 7111
South Bend, IN 46634
Phone: (574) 520-IUSB
(574) 520-4872

Last updated: 06 July 2004
Comments: intouch@iusb.edu
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