General Studies Major
What is General Studies?
A degree in general studies provides students with at well-rounded
education that covers many different aspects of a college degree. It is
designed to enable students to combine courses from many different
disciplines, perhaps even courses from different universities and still
obtain a college degree. General studies provides students the ability
to take courses the same way they did in high school, with no one
subject dominating their studies. General studies majors are given an
education to help them advance in the marketplace, without forcing them
to focus on one specific discipline. Additionally, students who are not
sure which field to pursue will begin as a general study major; when a
specific path appeals to them the student may then choose a department.
The precise nature of a general studies degree varies from university
to university.
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What Kinds of Students Major in General Studies?
Some universities restrict enrollment in general studies to adults
over the age of 21 who study on a part-time basis. Others welcome
traditional-aged, college and high school students in some programs.
Typically, students majoring in general studies do so because it allows
them to sample a wide range of disciplines and then to make a decision.
Some general studies degrees require a student to assemble a
concentration of courses in a particular discipline, but not as many
courses as would be required for a major. General studies students are
typically interested in learning a broad range of skills for the
workplace and adapting their coursework to their own decisions as to
what courses will be professionally and personally useful. General
studies may, at some institutions, be useful to students who have
obtained an associates degree in a non-academic area, yet feel a
bachelor’s degree is desirable. Also, many majors will go on to achieve
their teaching certificate.
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What Courses Do General Studies Majors Take?
The required and elective courses you would take for majors vary
considerably among institutions. Courses are listed here that are
illustrative of the breadth of topics you are likely to experience were
you to major in this field.
Basic Writing |
Oral Communication |
Introduction to Philosophy |
Individual Finance |
Studies in Art & Humanities |
Principles of Economics-micro/macro |
Introduction to Psychology |
U.S. History |
Themes in American Literature |
Algebra/Geometry |
Biology I |
Chemistry I |
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What Types of Positions do General Studies Majors Take After College?
General studies is not a vocationally-oriented degree. To the extent
that you concentrate in a professional discipline, your vocational
opportunities increase. Many general studies majors plan to stay within
the career path they are on already. A degree simply enhances their
standing. You should consider the likelihood of employment after
graduation carefully, if you do not plan to go on for graduate work in
a different field. Employment possibilities are often enhanced by the
selecting employment-related courses and by the enrollment in second
major or in a minor.
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Want More Information? Look at major descriptions prepared by university academic advisement staffs.
More on Choosing Your College Major 
