Best Online General Studies Degree Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online general studies degree?

An online general studies degree is a flexible, interdisciplinary credential that lets students blend courses across humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and practical electives to build a customized education. It’s designed for people who want breadth over narrow specialization—undecided students, working adults, transfer credit holders, or those preparing to pivot into a more focused field later.

Core concepts include foundational general education, elective customization, and optional concentration tracks (like pre-law, business, or health) that signal intent without locking you into a single major. Many programs accept prior credits and offer capstone or integrative experiences to tie learning together.

Delivered online, the degree adds scheduling freedom, accelerated pacing, and accessibility for nontraditional learners while still enabling transfer into advanced study or entry into generalist career roles.

Where can I work with an online general studies degree?

Graduates with an online general studies degree often land in industries that value adaptability, communication, and broad problem-solving skills. Common sectors include education support (tutoring centers, school administration, academic advising), nonprofit and human services (community outreach, program coordination, case management support), and business operations (administrative support, project coordination, customer service, and sales/marketing support roles). These employers prize the generalist background because graduates can wear multiple hats, learn on the job, and bridge gaps between departments.

Other frequent workplaces include healthcare administration (scheduling, patient services, support roles that don’t require clinical credentials), government and public service agencies (clerical, constituent services, policy support), and small to mid-sized companies that need flexible staff for operations or client relations.

Many grads also use the degree as a stepping stone—transitioning into specialized fields via additional certificates or transferring into bachelor’s/graduate programs—so you’ll see them in entry-level roles while they build toward more targeted careers.

How much can I make with an online general studies degree?

Graduates with an online general studies degree often land in generalist and support roles where broad skills matter more than deep specialization. Typical positions include administrative assistants, customer service representatives, and operations or project support—roles with solid demand but moderate pay.

For example, the median annual wage for secretaries and administrative assistants was $47,460 in May 2024, and customer service representatives earned about $20.59 per hour (roughly $42,800 annually). The wider office and administrative support group had a median annual wage of $46,320, reflecting the kind of entry-to-mid-level jobs many general studies grads take.

On the broader spectrum, holders of liberal arts or general studies bachelor’s degrees earn a median annual wage of around $55,000, with starting salaries often near $52,000; outcomes improve when graduates add targeted certificates or relevant experience. That interdisciplinary foundation lets some pivot into higher-paying directions or ladder up internally, especially if they combine the degree with in-demand skills or clear career-focused storytelling.

Best Online General Studies Degree Programs for 2025

1. University of Central Florida

University of Central Florida offers an online Bachelor of Integrative General Studies (BGS). This flexible and self-designed curriculum is for degree-seeking students who want a multidisciplinary education. The program, which requires 120 credit hours, is delivered fully online and is designed for students to refine and demonstrate their attainment of six learning outcomes that are in high demand in the workforce.

• Program Length: 2-4 years
• Program Cost: Starts at $179 per credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credit hours
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

2. Minot State University

Minot State University provides a Bachelor of General Studies (B.G.S.) program online. The program is designed for students who want a flexible and personalized approach to their education, allowing them to choose courses from various departments. This 100% online program is delivered asynchronously, with no scheduled class times, and is especially geared toward students in the U.S. Air & Space Force through the AU-ABC program.

• Program Length: 2-4 years
• Program Cost: $283 per credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credit hours
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

3. Trine University

Trine University offers an online Associate of General Studies degree program. This program is for students seeking a broad-based education and skills in critical thinking and communication. The curriculum requires 60 credit hours and is delivered asynchronously, allowing students to log in at their convenience with new classes starting every eight weeks.

• Program Length: 2-4 years
• Program Cost: $299 per credit hour
• Required Credits to Graduate: 60 credit hours
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

4. Oklahoma State University-Main Campus

Oklahoma State University-Main Campus offers a Bachelor of University Studies, an online degree for motivated and mature students who want to tailor their education to their specific objectives. This program, which requires a minimum of 120 credit hours, is designed for self-motivated, goal-oriented students seeking a skill set not offered by existing majors. The delivery is flexible, with opportunities to take classes on campus as well.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Program Cost: Varies. Starts ats $421.40 per credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credit hours
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

5. Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University provides an online Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) program that allows students to design a degree to fit their passions and career goals. This interdisciplinary program is designed for working adults and transfer students who want to finish their degree on their terms. The 120-credit program is delivered in a 100% online, asynchronous format with eight-week accelerated courses.

• Program Length: 2-4 years
• Program Cost: The average is $415-500 per credit hour
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credit hours
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

6. University of Louisiana at Lafayette

University of Louisiana at Lafayette offers an online Bachelor of General Studies designed for working adults and transfer students. This interdisciplinary degree allows students to build a customized plan that aligns with their professional goals. Courses are delivered 100% online in either 8-week or 16-week terms, and the program requires 120 credit hours for completion.

• Program Length: 2-4 years
• Program Cost: $380 per credit hour
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credit hours
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

7. University of Nebraska at Omaha

University of Nebraska at Omaha offers an online Bachelor of General Studies designed for students interested in integrating various academic disciplines. The program is designed to provide unique and diverse educational experiences to help students explore a wide range of scholarly endeavors. The major is not directed toward a specific vocation but is designed to prepare students for many different career paths. Most courses follow a traditional semester schedule, but eight-week sessions are also available.

• Program Length: 2-4 years
• Program Cost: Starts at $285 per credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credit hours.
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

8. University of North Dakota

University of North Dakota offers a Bachelor of General Studies (B.G.S.) degree program online. This 120-credit program is designed for students who want to personalize their education and choose courses from a variety of academic departments. The program can be completed fully online through two asynchronous options: self-paced courses that can be enrolled in at any time or semester-based courses that follow the standard university schedule.

• Program Length: 2-4 years
• Program Cost: Starts at $356 per credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

9. Arkansas State University

Arkansas State University offers an online Bachelor of General Studies program. This tailored and flexible program is designed for working adults and those with prior college credits who want to maximize their past education. Requiring 120 credit hours, the program is delivered with accelerated coursework and multiple start dates per year, allowing students to earn their credentials in a convenient online format.

• Program Length: 2-3 years
• Program Cost: $282 per credit hour
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credit hours
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

10. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University provides an online Bachelor of Arts in General Studies, a degree completion program that can be a fast track for those with prior college credits. This flexible and customizable curriculum allows students to design their own degree and choose a concentration in one area of study, such as business administration or psychology. The program is offered in a fully online, asynchronous format with multiple term starts throughout the year.

• Program Length: 2-4 years
• Program Cost: $342 per credit hour
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credit hours
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

How long does it take to complete an online general studies degree program?

A general studies degree program is a flexible college program that allows students to explore multiple fields instead of committing to a single major. It combines courses from areas such as humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and sometimes business or technology.

This interdisciplinary approach is designed for students who want to keep their career options open, transfer credits from previous studies, or pursue a degree that fits a nontraditional schedule. The program emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills, which are useful in various careers and further studies.

• An online associate degree in general studies typically takes about two years to finish for full-time students and requires around 60 credits. However, some schools offer accelerated programs that allow students to graduate in 12 to 18 months, especially if they bring in transfer credits.
• A bachelor’s degree in general studies usually requires 120 credits and takes about four years to complete with full-time study. Students who already hold an associate degree or have a substantial number of transfer credits can often complete their bachelor’s in two to three years.

Employers highly value a college education that emphasizes skills such as critical thinking, complex problem-solving, and communication. For instance, 51% hire in majors that fall outside the realm of their industry. A general studies degree, with its interdisciplinary nature, helps develop these transferable skills that are applicable across various professions.

The actual timeline for completing an online general studies degree depends on factors such as enrollment status, transfer credits, and the program’s structure. Full-time students progress faster than part-time learners. Some colleges also offer self-paced or accelerated formats, including eight-week courses, which allow motivated students to graduate more quickly.

How does an online general studies degree program compare to an on-campus program?

Flexibility and Schedule

Online programs, whether you’re pursuing a general studies degree or an online cosmetology program, win on flexibility. You can often access lectures, readings, and assignments on your own schedule, which helps if you work, have family obligations, or live far from campus. On-campus programs have fixed class times and require physical presence, which gives structure but less scheduling freedom.

Pace and Format

Many online programs offer self-paced or accelerated options (e.g., 8-week terms), letting motivated students move faster. On-campus programs typically follow a standard semester calendar with less ability to compress or stretch timelines without special arrangements.

Interaction and Community

On-campus students get face-to-face interaction with professors and peers, which can build deeper relationships, spontaneous collaboration, and easier networking. Online students interact via discussion boards, video calls, and email; effective but often less personal unless the program invests heavily in cohort-building.

Learning Style and Discipline

Online learning demands higher self-discipline and time management. If you thrive in independent study and can stay accountable, it works well. In-person classes help students who learn better with real-time feedback, immediate clarification, and external structure.

Access to Resources

On-campus students usually have direct access to libraries, tutoring centers, career services, labs (if applicable), and campus events. Online programs increasingly offer virtual equivalents—online tutoring, digital libraries, and career coaching—but the experience can vary in quality and immediacy.

Cost

Online programs can be cheaper overall (less commuting, no campus fees, potentially lower tuition at some schools), though not always. On-campus may have additional costs (housing, parking, activity fees) but sometimes offer scholarships or bundled services that offset those.

Accreditation and Quality

Both formats can be equally rigorous if the institution is properly accredited. You should verify that the program—online or in-person—is regionally or nationally accredited and that credits transfer if you plan to move between formats or pursue further education.

Networking and Career Services

In-person programs often provide more organic networking (events, clubs, faculty connections). Online programs can offer networking too, especially if they have active alumni communities or virtual industry events, but you may need to be more proactive.

With a curriculum focused on developing a broad range of transferable skills, a general studies degree can open doors to numerous high-paying professions. The following chart lists some of the most lucrative career paths for graduates of these flexible programs.

What is the average cost of an online general studies degree program?

The average cost of an online general studies degree program—or other online programs like biotechnology graduate certificate online programs—depends on the degree level, the type of school, and whether you qualify for in-state tuition or financial aid.

Associate Degree (2-Year)

• Tuition range: About $6,000 to $15,000 total for most online community colleges or public schools.
• Per credit cost: Typically $100 to $300 per credit, with around 60 credits required.
• Savings tip: Community colleges often offer lower tuition, and transferring credits to a bachelor’s program can reduce the overall cost.

Bachelor’s Degree (4-Year)

• Tuition range: About $20,000 to $45,000 total for the entire program at accredited public universities.
• Per credit cost: Typically $200 to $500 per credit, with around 120 credits required.
• Private schools: Can charge $50,000 or more for the full program, though financial aid may lower the net cost.

Other Cost Considerations

• Books and materials: Online courses may use e-textbooks or open educational resources to save money.
• Fees: Some programs charge technology or distance-learning fees, usually between $50 and $150 per term.
• Financial aid: Federal aid, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance can significantly reduce the out-of-pocket cost.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online general studies degree program?

Students enrolling in an online general studies degree program have access to most of the same financial aid options as on-campus students, as long as the program is offered by an accredited institution.

What makes general studies unique among other degree programs? Employers believe a well-rounded education is very important for graduates to possess. They value degrees that expose students to a wide variety of topics and disciplines, including the liberal arts, humanities, and social sciences, in addition to STEM knowledge.

This makes general studies a strong foundation for every student. Among employers, 40% agree that critical thinking is crucial for college students’ preparedness in entering the workforce.  A general studies degree can also be a great foundation for a variety of careers, including some public policy careers.

Here are the main options for financing:

1. Federal Financial Aid

The U.S. Department of Education offers aid to eligible students who submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Options include:

• Pell Grants: Need-based grants that do not need to be repaid, available mainly to undergraduates.
• Federal Student Loans: Includes subsidized and unsubsidized loans, which must be repaid with interest.
• Federal Work-Study: Some online students may qualify for part-time remote or local work-study opportunities.

2. State Financial Aid

Many states offer grants, scholarships, or tuition assistance to residents attending in-state schools. Eligibility and aid amounts vary by state, and some programs extend to online students.

3. Scholarships

• Merit-based scholarships: Awarded for academic performance, leadership, or talents.
• Need-based scholarships: Based on financial need.
• Online student or adult learner scholarships: Some organizations specifically support distance learners or nontraditional students.

4. Employer Tuition Assistance

Many employers help pay for employees’ degrees, including online programs. This can come in the form of tuition reimbursement or direct payment to the school.

5. Military and Veteran Benefits

Active-duty service members, veterans, and eligible family members can use GI Bill® benefits, Tuition Assistance (TA), or Yellow Ribbon Program benefits for online programs.

6. Institutional Aid and Payment Plans

Some colleges offer internal scholarships, grants, or tuition discounts for online students. Many also provide interest-free monthly payment plans to spread out tuition costs.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online general studies degree program?

The prerequisites for enrolling in an online general studies degree program—or related programs like an online bachelor's in applied sciences—depend on the degree level you’re pursuing. Here’s a clear breakdown:

Associate Degree in General Studies (2-Year Program)

Most online associate programs have minimal entry requirements. Typically, you need:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Official transcripts from high school or previous colleges (if transferring credits)
• Placement tests for math or English at some schools, unless you provide SAT/ACT scores or previous college credits
• Minimum GPA (usually 2.0 or higher, if transferring credits)

Many community colleges offering online associate degrees have open admissions policies, meaning anyone who meets the basic education requirement can enroll.

Bachelor’s Degree in General Studies (4-Year Program)

Entry requirements are slightly higher for online bachelor’s programs. Most schools require:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Official transcripts from all prior schools
• SAT or ACT scores (some online programs are test-optional)
• Minimum GPA (commonly 2.0–2.5 for incoming freshmen, or higher if transferring credits)
• Transfer credits: If you are entering as a junior with an associate degree or previous coursework, schools may have additional GPA requirements for those credits to count.

Additional Considerations

• Technology requirements: Reliable internet and a computer that meets the program’s specifications.
• Orientation or placement exams: Some programs require an online orientation or skills assessment before starting classes.
• English proficiency: International students may need TOEFL or IELTS scores.

In addition, experiences such as work-study positions, internships, and leadership roles as integrated in general studies programs make a candidate more attractive to employers. These opportunities provide hands-on application of ideas and community-based experiences, which are highly valued.

What courses are typically in an online general studies degree program?

A general studies degree's transferable skills can make graduates well-rounded candidates for a variety of roles. While programs like an appliance repair course online focus on specific technical skills, an online general studies degree provides broader academic foundations. Here are the courses and content areas you will typically see in an online general studies degree program, for both associate and bachelor’s degree programs:

Core General Education

These are foundational courses meant to give you broad exposure:

• English Composition / Writing: Courses in college writing, rhetoric, critical reading, and sometimes technical or professional writing.
• Mathematics / Quantitative Reasoning: Options might include college algebra, statistics, or logic.
• Natural Sciences: Introductory biology, environmental science, physical science, or astronomy—usually with or without lab components (labs may be virtual or local partnerships).
• Social Sciences: Psychology, sociology, anthropology, political science, or economics.
• Humanities / Fine Arts: History, philosophy, literature, cultural studies, ethics, or art appreciation.
• Communication: Public speaking, interpersonal communication, or media literacy. A degree with a focus on communications can provide a solid foundation for many careers. For more information, you may want to explore an accelerated communications degree.

Electives and Customization

General studies programs let you choose a sizable block of electives to tailor the degree. Common elective areas include:

• Business basics: Introduction to business, personal finance, entrepreneurship.
• Health and wellness: Health science fundamentals, nutrition, public health.
• Technology / Computer literacy: Intro to computers, digital literacy, basic information systems.
• Creative / Applied fields: Creative writing, graphic design fundamentals, problem-solving courses.

Some programs offer concentration tracks where electives cluster around a theme without locking you into a traditional major.

Capstone or Integrative Experience

Many bachelor’s-level programs include a capstone project, portfolio, or senior seminar that asks you to synthesize learning across disciplines—often with a real-world or applied component.

Transfer and Prior Learning Credits

Because flexibility is a hallmark, these programs often accept transfer credits (from AP, community college, military, or work/life experience) to satisfy some of the above areas, letting you skip redundancies.

Based on insights from employers, certain skills are highly sought after and signal a strong job candidate. The following chart outlines the key proficiencies that hiring managers value most when evaluating recent graduates.

What types of specializations are available in online general studies degree programs?

You will usually see specializations or concentration tracks in online general studies programs that let you signal interest or build depth without committing to a traditional major. Common ones include:

Liberal / Interdisciplinary Studies

A broad, customizable track combining humanities, social sciences, and arts. Good if you want wide exposure or are undecided.

Business Foundations

Covers basics like management, marketing, personal finance, and entrepreneurship. Useful if you want a generalist business prep or plan to transfer into a business major later.

Health and Wellness

Includes introductory health science, public health, nutrition, and wellness topics. It’s a springboard for allied health pathways or administrative roles in healthcare.

Social Sciences

Focuses on psychology, sociology, political science, and related fields. Helps if you’re aiming toward community services, human services, or further study in behavioral fields.

STEM Preparation / Science & Technology

Offers a mix of math, basic science, and digital literacy—sometimes tailored to prep for technical degrees or careers that value analytical thinking.

Digital Media / Communication

Emphasizes writing, media literacy, digital content creation, and interpersonal communication. Good for marketing support roles, content work, or remote coordination positions.

Education / Teaching Prep

Geared toward future educators or support staff—covers foundations in learning theory, child development, and communication. Often used as a stepping stone into teacher licensure tracks.

Human Services / Public Service

Prepares students for roles in nonprofits, government, or support services with courses on ethics, community outreach, and program basics.

Environmental & Sustainability Studies

Blends science, policy, and ethics around environmental issues; useful for entry-level sustainability roles or transfer into environmental degrees.

Pre-Professional Tracks

Some programs let you tailor a general studies degree to feed into professional schools (e.g., pre-law, pre-business, pre-health) by selecting appropriate prerequisite clusters.  This can include a project management major that covers the skills necessary to pursue a career in the field.

How do you choose the best online general studies degree program?

Choosing the best online general studies degree program requires balancing accreditation, flexibility, cost, and long-term goals. Here’s how to evaluate your options:

1. Verify Accreditation

Choose a regionally accredited school to ensure your degree is widely recognized and eligible for federal financial aid. Nationally accredited schools can be valid but may have transfer limitations. Check the U.S. Department of Education or CHEA database for confirmation.

2. Align the Program With Your Goals

Decide what you want from the degree—career advancement, a transfer pathway, or skill-building. If you’re planning to transfer or pursue graduate studies, ensure the courses and credits are widely transferable.

3. Review Curriculum and Specializations

Examine the required courses and elective options. Look for programs with concentration tracks (e.g., business, health, social sciences) or flexibility to tailor electives toward your career interest.  You may find programs that offer specializations in areas like environmental policy, so a general studies degree can be a stepping stone to one of the top environmental policy degree programs.

4. Compare Program Length and Format

Check the average completion time and delivery style. Accelerated or self-paced formats are ideal if you want to finish quickly, while structured semesters may offer more support. Make sure the course schedules fit your work or family obligations.

5. Evaluate Cost and Financial Aid

Compare tuition per credit, technology fees, and potential hidden costs like proctoring or lab fees. Confirm that the school participates in federal and state financial aid programs and check for scholarships or tuition discounts for online students.

6. Assess Support Services for Online Students

Good online programs provide academic advising, tutoring, library access, and career services remotely. Responsive technical support and online orientation programs also make a big difference for first-time online learners.

7. Check Reputation and Student Outcomes

Look for graduation rates, job placement stats, and alumni feedback. Schools with a strong track record for online learning and positive student reviews are safer bets.

What career paths are available for graduates of online general studies degree programs?

Graduates of online general studies degree programs have broad, flexible options. The degree builds transferable skills such as writing, critical thinking, communication, and analysis, so it’s often paired with experience, certifications, or further education.

Employers believe a student's workforce success is enhanced by exposure to a wide range of viewpoints and that all topics should be open for discussion on college campuses. This free exchange of ideas, a core tenet of liberal education, not only aids learning but also makes graduates more marketable and employable.

Common career paths include:

1. Administrative & Office Support

Roles like administrative assistant, office coordinator, or executive assistant. These jobs value organization, communication, and the generalist knowledge you gain in a general studies program.

2. Customer Service & Client Relations

Positions in customer support, client onboarding, or account coordination. Employers look for strong verbal/written communication and problem-solving—core outcomes of general studies curricula.

3. Sales & Marketing Support

Entry-level roles such as sales associate, marketing coordinator, or social media assistant. A general studies background pairs well with foundational business/elective coursework; adding a short certificate (e.g., digital marketing) boosts prospects.

4. Human Services / Nonprofit Support

Jobs like caseworker assistant, community outreach coordinator, program support specialist, or development/fundraising assistant. The interdisciplinary and ethical reasoning components fit these environments.

5. Education & Academic Support

Opportunities include paraprofessional, tutoring support, academic advising assistant, or education program coordinator—especially if you add coursework in learning theory or communication.

6. Entry-Level Project/Operations Roles

Project coordinator, operations assistant, or logistics support roles where general organizational and analytical ability is valued over deep specialization.

7. Transfer & Further Education Pathways

Many use the degree as a stepping stone: transferring into specialized bachelor’s, graduate programs, or professional schools (pre-law, public administration, health services) by pairing it with appropriate prerequisites.  This could include some of the shortest public policy masters programs online.

8. Freelance / Gig Work

Content writing, virtual assistance, research support, or small business consulting—leveraging the writing, synthesis, and adaptability trained in the program.

What complementary credentials can boost my career after an online general studies degree?

In today's competitive job market, supplementing an online general studies degree with additional certifications or advanced credentials can significantly enhance your career prospects. Targeted credentials can deepen expertise in a specific area and signal a commitment to continuous professional development. For instance, exploring accelerated graduate pathways—such as the shortest online EdD degrees—can offer a rapid transition into leadership and specialized roles. These credentials not only build on your broad academic foundation but also provide tangible evidence of advanced skills that employers value.

What is the job market like for graduates of an online general studies degree?

The job market for graduates with an online general studies degree is mixed but workable, depending heavily on how you package the degree and what you add to it. Nearly three-quarters of college students (73%) who are about to graduate believe their major will be very useful for finding job opportunities. This sentiment is reflected in the low rate of regret, with only 27% expressing dissatisfaction with their field of study, a notable decrease from the 30% reported in 2023.

Overall, recent college graduates face a tougher market in 2025: the labor market weakened in early 2025 with the unemployment rate for recent grads rising to about 5.8% and underemployment climbing. Expectations remain high—around 82% of the class of 2025 expect full-time work soon after graduation—but only roughly 77% of recent grads have achieved that, signaling some friction between outlook and reality.

That said, a degree like general studies (often grouped with liberal/interdisciplinary arts in labor data) still provides value because it builds broadly transferable skills—writing, critical thinking, communication, and adaptability—that employers across sectors seek. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that people with liberal arts-related bachelor’s degrees hold hundreds of thousands of jobs, with a median annual wage around $55,000, though they’re less likely than some specialized fields to end up in occupations that strictly “require” the degree.

Online general studies grads typically enter generalist and support roles (administrative, customer service, sales/marketing support, human services, education support, operations/project coordination) where the breadth of knowledge is an asset. Because the degree isn’t narrowly technical, outcomes improve significantly if graduates supplement it with targeted credentials, internships, portfolio work, or a clear articulation of how their interdisciplinary background applies to the role. One example of a targeted credential that complements a general studies degree is an online project management degree.

Here's What Professionals Have to Say About Their Online General Studies Degree

Other Things You Should Know About the Best Online General Studies Degree Programs

Who should pursue an online general studies degree?

An online general studies degree suits students who want broad academic exposure without committing to a narrow major, such as undecided learners, working adults, or those building a flexible transfer pathway. It also fits people with prior credits (from community college, military, or varied coursework) who need a customizable degree to consolidate those credits.

If you value skill-building in critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving over technical specialization, this degree gives you a foundation to pivot or continue education. It’s also practical for someone balancing life responsibilities who needs the scheduling flexibility online delivery offers.

Can I transfer community college credits into an online general studies degree?

Yes, most online general studies programs are built to accept community college transfer credits, especially if the courses align with general education or elective requirements. Many students use an associate degree or individual credits to jumpstart a bachelor’s in general studies, often entering as juniors.

You’ll need to check the specific transfer policies of the receiving institution—some require minimum grades or have limits on how many credits apply. It helps to get transcripts evaluated early and work with an academic advisor to map which credits will count.

Can I transfer from an online general studies program into graduate school?

Yes, most online general studies programs are built to accept community college transfer credits, especially if the courses align with general education or elective requirements. Many students use an associate degree or individual credits to jumpstart a bachelor’s in general studies, often entering as juniors.

You’ll need to check the specific transfer policies of the receiving institution—some require minimum grades or have limits on how many credits apply. It helps to get transcripts evaluated early and work with an academic advisor to map which credits will count. 

Are pre-professional concentration options available in general studies?

Many online general studies degree programs offer pre-professional concentration options. These tracks allow students to tailor their curriculum with a cluster of electives and prerequisite courses that prepare them for professional schools. Common examples include pre-law, pre-business, and pre-health tracks, which serve as a stepping stone toward a specialized graduate or professional degree.