This track helps you to explore the interconnectedness between communication and creative expression and their relevance to individuals and to modern society. Relevant disciplines include Art, Art History, Communication, English, Comparative Humanities, and Theatre Arts.
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Jacob Wolfe
Online Enrollment Counselor
Online Bachelor of Science in General Studies
The online Bachelor of Science in General Studies is designed for adult students with previous college credit, pursuing the completion of their first undergraduate degree and ready to maximize and capitalize on their previous learning experiences—on the job and in the classroom.
UofL’s online general studies bachelor’s is a student-focused, degree-completion program, with six interdisciplinary tracks available. Our degree is structured so you can customize your learning experience to gain additional skills and the education required for advancement in today’s competitive workforce. You can also earn up to 27 tuition-free credits toward your degree for occupational learning through the Prior Learning (optional) Assessment component.
The Bachelor of Science in General Studies is offered by the College of Arts & Sciences at the University of Louisville
Academic Year Tuition
$540 per credit hour
$250 per credit hour active-duty tuition rate
This program is a Title IV federal financial aid eligible program. Tuition rate does not include costs associated with a specific course or program, such as textbooks.
Please note that other fees apply – check our tuition page for all applicable costs.
Tuition, fees, and charges are subject to change and effective on the date enacted.For additional information on educational expenses and the Cost of Attendance, please visit the Student Financial Aid Office website.
Online BS in General Studies Program Highlights
- Build on your knowledge and customize your bachelor’s degree by combining different areas of interest into one of five thematic tracks, or a sixth option to earn two minors or certificates.
- Take advantage of an online program—designed to fit your life with 24/7 access to most classes and coursework completed when it’s right for you.
- Earn up to 27 credits (tuition-free) for on-the-job learning and save time and money with the optional Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) class.
- Learn from faculty with distinguished academic credentials, industry experience and a strong commitment to applied research.
- Transfer in credit hours from prior college courses completed at an accredited institution.
START YOUR APPLICATION REQUEST INFORMATION
10% JOB GROWTH
An online bachelor’s degree from UofL sets you up for success in today’s job market.
6 TRACKS
Customized tracks let you build the degree that suits your interest and experience.
SAVE UP TO $14K+ IN TUITION
Save up to $14,580 in tuition for workplace learning and training with our Prior Learning Assessment (PLA).
"The BS in General Studies is the ideal program for anyone ready to turn their college credits into a degree. Complete the BS in General Studies online or on campus and help achieve your personal and professional goals."
Glynis Ridley, PhD
Program Director
Online Bachelor’s in General Studies Tracks
UofL’s online bachelor’s in general studies offers superior flexibility by allowing you to tailor your education to your personal interests and career goals. Through a track, you can customize your learning experience by focusing on specific knowledge, skill sets and industries.
Completion of a minimum of 36 credit hours is required for each track, within the minimum of 120 total credit hours required for degree completion and graduation.
Track courses must be taken across at least three listed disciplines. Related courses from other disciplines may be approved on a case-by-case basis by the program director.
-
Communication and Creative Expression
-
Health and Human Studies
This track explores scientific, social and environmental aspects of health and wellness, and can be customized to prepare you for professional healthcare programs like Physician’s Assistant, Physical Therapy and Speech Language Pathology. Your academic advisor can offer guidance for a more personalized interdisciplinary pre-health pathway. Track disciplines include Anthropology, Biology, Geographic and Environmental Sciences, Psychology, Sociology and Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies.
-
Ethics, Justice and Society
This track helps build knowledge on the relationship between the ethical principles and values that govern our social institutions and the challenges and issues faced in creating a morally just society. Track disciplines include Criminal Justice, Pan-African Studies, Peace Studies, Philosophy, Political Science, Social Change and Sociology.
-
Culture and Community
This track explores cultural and social contexts and how culture interacts with an individual’s experience and perception of the world. Track disciplines include Anthropology, Deaf Studies, Disability Studies, Pan-African Studies, Religious Studies, Sociology and Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies.
-
Global Studies
This track analyzes global issues and cultural perspectives, preparing you to live and work in settings with diverse ethnic and cultural populations and to function more effectively as a citizen of an increasingly interconnected world. Track disciplines include Anthropology, Art History, Asian Studies, Classical and Modern Languages, History, Humanities, Jewish Studies, Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies, Latin American and Latino Studies, Linguistics, Pan-African Studies and Political Science.
-
Dual Concentration
Students pursuing the dual concentration track are expected to complete either 2 minors, 2 certificates or the combination of a minor and a certificate.
What Can I Do with a BS in General Studies?
Completing a bachelor’s degree can vastly improve your employment outlook and earning potential. Employment in bachelor’s-level occupations is projected to grow by 10% from 2016 to 2026, faster than the 7% average projected growth for all occupations. Additionally, in 2017, the median annual wage for occupations requiring a bachelor’s degree was $36,730 more than those required to hold a high school diploma or similar (bls.gov).
Depending on your focus areas, organizations hiring bachelor’s in general studies graduates include but not limited to:
- Advertising agencies
- Federal, state, and local government agencies
- Event companies
- Businesses and trade associations
- Colleges, universities and schools
- Not-for-profit and special interest groups
- Public relations firms
- Political organizations
- Real estate management firms
- Healthcare organizations
Online BS in General Studies Application Deadlines
| Application Deadline | Term | Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| August 1 | Fall | August |
| December 1 | Spring | January |
| April 1 | Summer | May/June |
Note: We admit students on a rolling basis. The preferred deadlines help you complete the application process on time, be notified of acceptance and enroll before the term begins. We review applications as they become complete, and admit students for a specific term up to the day classes start. We recommend you work on and submit your complete application well in advance of the preferred deadline, as obtaining transcripts and other materials may take more time.
How to Apply for the Online BS in General Studies
- Start your application for undergraduate admission
- Submit $30 non-refundable application fee
- Complete any checklist items listed on your Application Portal*
- Request official transcripts from all previously attended institutions. Transcripts are only accepted directly from the institution(s) by email: adetran@louisville.edu (recommended) or mail: University of Louisville, Office of Admissions, Dept AO, Louisville, KY 40292
- Create a financial plan
START YOUR APPLICATION REQUEST INFORMATION
Online Bachelor of BS in General Studies Admissions Requirements and Materials
New Students and Transfer Students with less than 24 transferable credits from accredited institutions must have:
- Not eligible for the General Studies program; applicants must have earned at least 40 accredited college credits hours
Transfer Students with 24 or more transferable credits from accredited institutions must have:
- Minimum college GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale (applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)
*Your Application Portal:
Once you have started an undergraduate application, you can check the status and review any additional checklist to-do items. Log in to your application using the email address you used to apply for admission and your password. Your checklist items may include additional materials or documentation that facilitate a smooth admissions process. You will also have access to important contact information and next steps after an admissions decision is made.
International Students
If you live outside of the United States and intend to complete an online academic program from your home country, be sure to view special requirements for international students.
Online BS in General Studies Courses
Courses must be taken across at least three listed disciplines. Related courses from other disciplines may be approved on a case-by-case basis by the program director.
Completion of a minimum of 36 credit hours is required for each track.
Core Courses
| Courses | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| General Education Requirements * | 31 |
| Arts & Sciences Requirements | 12-14 |
| Foreign Language | 6-8 |
| Electives in Natural and/or Social Sciences OR electives in Humanities (depending on the areas of focus) at 300 level or above | 6 |
| WR Courses - two approved courses at the 300 level or above | |
| Program/Major Requirements | 77-80 |
| GEN 205 Introduction to General Studies | 3 |
| GEN 305 Prior Learning Assessment (optional) | 0-3 |
| GEN 401 General Studies Captstone | 1-3 |
| Interdisciplinary Track Requirements | 3 |
| Courses must be taken across at least three listed disciplines. Related courses from other disciplines may be counted on a case-by-case basis.3 |
1 Requires completion of the second semester of a single foreign language; hours will vary depending on the language taken.
2 Requirement may be met by completing other courses designated WR.
3 At least 24 hours must be taken at the 300 level or higher. At least 12 hours must be taken in Arts & Sciences.
START YOUR APPLICATION REQUEST INFORMATION
Online BS in General Studies FAQ
-
What can I do with this degree?Depending on your focus areas, organizations hiring bachelor’s in general studies graduates include but are not limited to advertising agencies; federal, state, and local government agencies; businesses and trade associations; colleges, universities, and schools; not-for-profit groups; political organizations; and more! For more information about the career outlook for the BS in General Studies, check out our Outcomes tab. For more information on the focus areas, view our Courses tab.
-
How many credits can I earn from the Prior Learning Assessment?The Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) is completed as part of the GEN 305 course in the General Studies major. Based on past work experience and training illustrated within the course, you can earn up to 27 credit hours tuition-free toward completion of your bachelor’s degree.
-
What are the focus areas I can choose from?The BS in General Studies has 6 track options that let you focus on specific areas of interest or experience to build a degree that suits your unique goals. Tracks include:
- Communication and Creative Expression
- Health and Human Studies
- Ethics, Justice and Society
- Cultural and Community
- Global Studies
- Dual Concentrations
-
How does the Prior Learning Assessment work?The Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) is completed as part of the GEN 305 course in the General Studies major. Through the course, students create a prior learning assessment portfolio and become acclimated to writing requirements and style guidelines within the major. Based on past work experience and training illustrated within the course, students can earn up to 27 credit hours tuition-free toward completion of their bachelor’s degree.
-
Is financial aid available for this program?Yes, there is financial aid available for this program. You can learn more by visiting our Financial Aid tab on the tuition page.
Online BS in General Studies Success Team
-
-
-
Danielle DolanAssistant Dean and Director of Advising in the College of Arts & Sciences
Academic Year Tuition
$540 per credit hour
$250 per credit hour active-duty tuition rate
This program is a Title IV federal financial aid eligible program. Tuition rate does not include costs associated with a specific course or program, such as textbooks.
Please note that other fees apply – check our tuition page for all applicable costs.
Tuition, fees, and charges are subject to change and effective on the date enacted.For additional information on educational expenses and the Cost of Attendance, please visit the Student Financial Aid Office website.
Online BS in General Studies Program Highlights
- Build on your knowledge and customize your bachelor’s degree by combining different areas of interest into one of five thematic tracks, or a sixth option to earn two minors or certificates.
- Take advantage of an online program—designed to fit your life with 24/7 access to most classes and coursework completed when it’s right for you.
- Earn up to 27 credits (tuition-free) for on-the-job learning and save time and money with the optional Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) class.
- Learn from faculty with distinguished academic credentials, industry experience and a strong commitment to applied research.
- Transfer in credit hours from prior college courses completed at an accredited institution.
START YOUR APPLICATION REQUEST INFORMATION
10% JOB GROWTH
An online bachelor’s degree from UofL sets you up for success in today’s job market.
6 TRACKS
Customized tracks let you build the degree that suits your interest and experience.
SAVE UP TO $14K+ IN TUITION
Save up to $14,580 in tuition for workplace learning and training with our Prior Learning Assessment (PLA).
"The BS in General Studies is the ideal program for anyone ready to turn their college credits into a degree. Complete the BS in General Studies online or on campus and help achieve your personal and professional goals."
Glynis Ridley, PhD
Program Director
What Can I Do with a BS in General Studies?
Completing a bachelor’s degree can vastly improve your employment outlook and earning potential. Employment in bachelor’s-level occupations is projected to grow by 10% from 2016 to 2026, faster than the 7% average projected growth for all occupations. Additionally, in 2017, the median annual wage for occupations requiring a bachelor’s degree was $36,730 more than those required to hold a high school diploma or similar (bls.gov).
Depending on your focus areas, organizations hiring bachelor’s in general studies graduates include but not limited to:
- Advertising agencies
- Federal, state, and local government agencies
- Event companies
- Businesses and trade associations
- Colleges, universities and schools
- Not-for-profit and special interest groups
- Public relations firms
- Political organizations
- Real estate management firms
- Healthcare organizations
Online BS in General Studies Application Deadlines
| Application Deadline | Term | Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| August 1 | Fall | August |
| December 1 | Spring | January |
| April 1 | Summer | May/June |
Note: We admit students on a rolling basis. The preferred deadlines help you complete the application process on time, be notified of acceptance and enroll before the term begins. We review applications as they become complete, and admit students for a specific term up to the day classes start. We recommend you work on and submit your complete application well in advance of the preferred deadline, as obtaining transcripts and other materials may take more time.
How to Apply for the Online BS in General Studies
- Start your application for undergraduate admission
- Submit $30 non-refundable application fee
- Complete any checklist items listed on your Application Portal*
- Request official transcripts from all previously attended institutions. Transcripts are only accepted directly from the institution(s) by email: adetran@louisville.edu (recommended) or mail: University of Louisville, Office of Admissions, Dept AO, Louisville, KY 40292
- Create a financial plan
START YOUR APPLICATION REQUEST INFORMATION
Online Bachelor of BS in General Studies Admissions Requirements and Materials
New Students and Transfer Students with less than 24 transferable credits from accredited institutions must have:
- Not eligible for the General Studies program; applicants must have earned at least 40 accredited college credits hours
Transfer Students with 24 or more transferable credits from accredited institutions must have:
- Minimum college GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale (applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)
*Your Application Portal:
Once you have started an undergraduate application, you can check the status and review any additional checklist to-do items. Log in to your application using the email address you used to apply for admission and your password. Your checklist items may include additional materials or documentation that facilitate a smooth admissions process. You will also have access to important contact information and next steps after an admissions decision is made.
International Students
If you live outside of the United States and intend to complete an online academic program from your home country, be sure to view special requirements for international students.
Online Bachelor’s in General Studies Tracks
UofL’s online bachelor’s in general studies offers superior flexibility by allowing you to tailor your education to your personal interests and career goals. Through a track, you can customize your learning experience by focusing on specific knowledge, skill sets and industries.
Completion of a minimum of 36 credit hours is required for each track, within the minimum of 120 total credit hours required for degree completion and graduation.
Track courses must be taken across at least three listed disciplines. Related courses from other disciplines may be approved on a case-by-case basis by the program director.
-
Communication and Creative Expression
This track helps you to explore the interconnectedness between communication and creative expression and their relevance to individuals and to modern society. Relevant disciplines include Art, Art History, Communication, English, Comparative Humanities, and Theatre Arts.
-
Health and Human Studies
This track explores scientific, social and environmental aspects of health and wellness, and can be customized to prepare you for professional healthcare programs like Physician’s Assistant, Physical Therapy and Speech Language Pathology. Your academic advisor can offer guidance for a more personalized interdisciplinary pre-health pathway. Track disciplines include Anthropology, Biology, Geographic and Environmental Sciences, Psychology, Sociology and Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies.
-
Ethics, Justice and Society
This track helps build knowledge on the relationship between the ethical principles and values that govern our social institutions and the challenges and issues faced in creating a morally just society. Track disciplines include Criminal Justice, Pan-African Studies, Peace Studies, Philosophy, Political Science, Social Change and Sociology.
-
Culture and Community
This track explores cultural and social contexts and how culture interacts with an individual’s experience and perception of the world. Track disciplines include Anthropology, Deaf Studies, Disability Studies, Pan-African Studies, Religious Studies, Sociology and Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies.
-
Global Studies
This track analyzes global issues and cultural perspectives, preparing you to live and work in settings with diverse ethnic and cultural populations and to function more effectively as a citizen of an increasingly interconnected world. Track disciplines include Anthropology, Art History, Asian Studies, Classical and Modern Languages, History, Humanities, Jewish Studies, Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies, Latin American and Latino Studies, Linguistics, Pan-African Studies and Political Science.
-
Dual Concentration
Students pursuing the dual concentration track are expected to complete either 2 minors, 2 certificates or the combination of a minor and a certificate.
Online BS in General Studies Courses
Courses must be taken across at least three listed disciplines. Related courses from other disciplines may be approved on a case-by-case basis by the program director.
Completion of a minimum of 36 credit hours is required for each track.
Core Courses
| Courses | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| General Education Requirements * | 31 |
| Arts & Sciences Requirements | 12-14 |
| Foreign Language | 6-8 |
| Electives in Natural and/or Social Sciences OR electives in Humanities (depending on the areas of focus) at 300 level or above | 6 |
| WR Courses - two approved courses at the 300 level or above | |
| Program/Major Requirements | 77-80 |
| GEN 205 Introduction to General Studies | 3 |
| GEN 305 Prior Learning Assessment (optional) | 0-3 |
| GEN 401 General Studies Captstone | 1-3 |
| Interdisciplinary Track Requirements | 3 |
| Courses must be taken across at least three listed disciplines. Related courses from other disciplines may be counted on a case-by-case basis.3 |
1 Requires completion of the second semester of a single foreign language; hours will vary depending on the language taken.
2 Requirement may be met by completing other courses designated WR.
3 At least 24 hours must be taken at the 300 level or higher. At least 12 hours must be taken in Arts & Sciences.
START YOUR APPLICATION REQUEST INFORMATION
Online BS in General Studies Success Team
-
-
- Danielle Dolan
Assistant Dean and Director of Advising in the College of Arts & Sciences
