General Studies

Study mode:Online Study type:Full-time Languages: English
Local:$ 7.64 k / Year(s) Foreign:$ 18 k / Year(s)  
StudyQA ranking:4762 Duration:48 months

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The Bachelor of Science in General Studies at South Dakota State University offers students a flexible and personalized educational pathway designed to meet a diverse range of academic interests and career goals. This program provides an opportunity for students to tailor their coursework across multiple disciplines, allowing for a well-rounded and comprehensive undergraduate experience. Whether students are exploring multiple fields of study or seeking to combine different areas of knowledge, the General Studies program equips them with critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills essential for success in various professional settings.

The curriculum is highly customizable, enabling students to select courses from across the university’s diverse offerings, including arts, sciences, business, health, and technical programs. This flexibility is ideal for students who have broad academic interests or who are preparing for careers that require interdisciplinary knowledge. Additionally, the program allows students to develop a unique academic plan that aligns with their individual career aspirations, whether they aim to enter the workforce directly after graduation or pursue further education.

Throughout the program, students benefit from academic advising designed to support their educational and career planning. The Bachelor of Science in General Studies emphasizes the development of transferable skills such as research, analytical thinking, and effective communication. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for diverse job markets or for advanced study in graduate or professional schools. The program’s structure encourages independent learning, autonomy, and adaptability—traits highly valued by employers across all sectors.

The university fosters a supportive learning environment, providing resources such as tutoring, career services, and experiential learning opportunities to enhance student success. By completing the Bachelor of Science in General Studies, graduates leave with a versatile and adaptable educational foundation that opens doors to many professional pathways and lifelong learning opportunities. The program is an excellent choice for students seeking a customized undergraduate experience that caters to their unique academic interests and career development needs.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline June for Fall semester; November for Spring semester Tuition fee
  • USD 7635 Year (National)
  • USD 18044 Year (International)
Start date January,September 2015 Credits 120 credits
Duration full-time 48 months Languages Take an IELTS test
  • English
Delivery mode On CampusOnline Educational variant Full-time Structure Fully structured Student interaction Individual work/assignments (with online group discussions) Attendance Regular mandatory meetings Teacher support Continuous support with feedback on request

Course Content

Major Requirements: 48Completion of 15 credits in at least 3 of the designated General Studies focus areas (45 credits):
  • Allied Health (Courses such as anatomy, athletic training, health sciences)
  • Business (Courses such as business administration, consumer affairs, economics, ag econ, entrepreneurial studies)
  • Education (Courses such as early childhood education, art education, ag education)
  • Fine Arts (Courses such as art, art history, interior design, theater, music)
  • Humanities (Courses such as foreign languages, English, religion, philosophy, mass and speech communication)
  • Social Science (Courses such as anthropology, human development, political science, psychology, sociology)
  • Science, Engineering and Mathematics (Courses such as biology, chemistry, construction management, mathematics)
  • Technology (Courses such as agricultural systems technology, computer science, electrical engineering technology)
  • Wellness (health, physical education and recreation; wellness)

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 5.5 TOEFL paper-based test score : 500 TOEFL iBT® test : 61

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

take an IELTS test. More About IELTS

Requirements

  • Applicants should have an above average academic record at least equivalent to a "B-" average (2.60 out of 4.00), or be in the top 60% of their class with suitable academic preparation for the intended major.
  • The SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test), while not required, is encouraged and strongly recommended for freshman applicants. Students who graduated from U.S. high schools must submit an SAT score.
  • Academic Transcripts need to be originals or official certified true copies. If your transcripts are not in English, certified true translations must be attached. All upper secondary school-level work need to be demonstrated through your transcripts. It is common for applicants to submit transcripts prior to completion of their final year of secondary school. If you must submit transcripts prior to completion, please indicate your expected graduation date.
  • Work Experience

    No work experience is required.

    Related Scholarships*

    • Academic Excellence Scholarship

      "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

    • Alumni Study Travel Fund

      Scholarships for students who are already attending the University of Reading.

    • Amsterdam Merit Scholarships

      The University of Amsterdam aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship.

    * The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than South Dakota State University.

    Funding

    SDSU offers a variety of academic scholarships. Awards are based on academic achievement, activities participation and leadership.

    Accreditation

    South Dakota State University has been granted the full, ten-year reaccreditation by the Higher Learning Commission. An accreditation team of representatives from peer institutions commended SDSU for:

    • Dedicated faculty and staff
    • Quality new facilities
    • Excellent student leadership
    • Shared governance
    • Partnerships with local community
    • Robust and Integrated assessment program
    • Successful transition to NCAA Division I Athletics

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