An education in general studies exposes students to the humanities, sciences, and technologies and prepares them for jobs in a variety of fields. General studies degrees are available to people who seek a broad education and students who are having trouble deciding on a major. Without committing to a particular topic, this track gives students a wide education and gets them ready for a variety of careers that require a general studies degree.

Degrees in general studies emphasize courses in the humanities and sciences and give highly transferable abilities in problem-solving, communication, research, and math. Students pursuing degrees can tailor their coursework to explore several subjects and professions, preparing them for the occupations 

Post-Graduate Career Possibilities in General Studies

Careers in a variety of industries are possible with a degree in general studies. These comprehensive programs give students interdisciplinary expertise for careers in business, information technology, and public health.

While entry-level occupations are the norm for those with general studies degrees, graduates can increase their chances of landing advanced roles by concentrating their training and extracurricular activities. For instance, students who enroll in specialized courses, complete internships, or work study roles in the sectors of finance or communications can compete with graduates in these fields.

A graduate's résumé can benefit from the added experience in these fields, which can also orient them to the field. Students then have the option of majoring in the area, which enables them to transfer credits with ease.

Types of general studies degrees

 Programs in general studies are most prevalent at the associate or bachelor levels. It's less typical to find a general studies program at the master's level because students who pursue graduate degrees typically seek a more specialized education in their field of interest.

• A two-year program leading to an associate degree in general studies consists of both core course requirements and elective courses in predetermined fields of study. A general studies associate's degree holder may later enroll in a bachelor's program and pursue a specialized major.

• A four-year program leading to a bachelor's degree in general studies includes basic coursework, electives in certain fields of study, and frequently a second specialization, minor, or major.

Bachelor’s degree in general studies

Schools of continuing or professional studies at universities frequently host general studies programs. People who want a certification recognizing their proficiency in college-level skills may find a bachelor's degree in general studies to be a good choice. This can include students who are starting their college careers for the first time or who are returning to school with some transfer credits after taking a break from school to work for a while.

A general studies bachelor's degree can be an excellent fit if:

• You want to be adaptable — service members, veterans, and parents who wish to fit a college education into their already hectic life and who have a variety of interests can benefit from a more individually tailored approach.

• To increase your pay or land a promotion at work, you desire a college degree. In comparison to those without a degree, those with a bachelor's degree have lower rates of unemployment and can earn a higher median weekly income.

• Without needing to choose a primary topic of study, you desire a very wide educational background.

• You have some transferable credits as well as some college experience.

• To complete the program as quickly as possible, you would prefer the option to take a course each month.

• You are not yet prepared to select a specific academic or professional focus.

Master's degree in general studies

It is a course intended to increase students' understanding in a range of general subjects, including writing, history, and technical and computer abilities. Other topics that might be covered include math, computer programming, and legal processes.

Selecting a major

Selecting a major may be a thrilling and daunting process. Consider these five questions to help you decide on your major when the time comes:

1. What aspects of my employment experiences have I enjoyed?

1. What do I stand for?

1. What do I find interesting?

1. What's the "big picture" for me?

1. What are my goals?