51¶¯Âþ

Bachelor of General Studies

The Bachelor of General Studies, offered through 51¶¯Âþ’s , is designed specifically for adult learners with prior college and at least 60 transferable credits who are ready to complete their undergraduate degree.ÌýThis 120-credit bachelor’s program focuses on creating a solid foundation for a wide variety of careersÌýand it allows students the opportunity to customize their degree path.Ìý

The general studies degree combines major coursework (including two writing intensive courses), general education courses and electives. The curriculum is specifically tailored to enhance students’ critical thinking skills, effective communication abilities and interdisciplinary knowledge to achieve their personal and professional goals. Students receiveÌýpersonalized guidance from the University College Academic and Student Services team to develop the curriculum that meets their needs.ÌýStudents also have access toÌýcourses and resources available at any of 51¶¯Âþ’s campuses, including Main Campus, , Ìý²¹²Ô»åÌý.Ìý

You can customize your degree by choosing a combination of minors and/or certificates across our schools and colleges, or byÌýfocusing your coursework in a broad subject grouping that builds on coursework you’ve already completed.

The general studies degreeÌýis flexible, customizable and prepares you to adapt to an ever-changing workplace. You will complete your degree with a capstone course, which provides opportunities to integrate academic learning with professional experiences in a culminating project that combines knowledge, skills and reflection within your selected subject grouping.

Classes and Curriculum

This program comprises coursework offered by 51¶¯Âþ’s schools and colleges. Students can customize their degree by choosing two or more existing minors or certificate programs, or by choosing a broad subject grouping that builds on their previous coursework. These areas—which include arts and architecture; business, sports and communication; health and human services; humanities, education and social sciences; and science, technology, engineeringÌýand mathematics—are flexible and customizable through collaboration with a Bachelor of General Studies advisor.

Learn more about theÌýBachelor of General Studies curriculum.

Program Outcomes

Graduates of the general studies degree program will be prepared to

• evaluate and synthesize knowledge from interdisciplinary perspectives. Ìý
• communicate clearly, concisely and effectively, both orally and in writing. Ìý
• demonstrate critical analysis and evaluation of an argument, including the argument’s assertions, background and assumptions;Ìýevidence used to support assertions;Ìýand the explanatory utility, and present conclusions, interpretations and implications. Ìý
• build and apply research and critical analysis skills in ways that are informed by discipline-specific methodologies. Ìý
• critically reflect on the relationship between their prior academic and nonacademic life experience with the skills and knowledge acquired through their academic subject grouping.

Related Graduate Degrees

• Africology and African American Studies MA

• Anthropology MAÌý

• Master of Business Administration

• Advocacy and Organizational Development MEd

• Master of Liberal Arts

Related Graduate Certificates

• Bioinformatics (STEM focus)

• College Access and Success

• Computer Science

• Disability Studies

Explore More Graduate Options

The flexibility of the general studies degreeÌýextends to many options for advanced study. Your individualized academic focuses and coursework can determine your related graduate degrees and certificates. .

Your Academic and Student Services Team

General studies degree students receive personalized support from the University College Academic and Student Services team. StudentsÌýwork collaboratively with staff to select courses and determine post-graduation plans. Students are encouraged to meet with their advisor each semester, and may do so virtually and in-person at most 51¶¯Âþ campuses.

Questions

For more information about this programÌýand how to apply for admission or reenroll, contact the University College Academic and Student Services team.

Phone: 215-204-6565
Email: BGSadmissions@temple.edu

Program Administrators

Vicki Lewis McGarvey, vice provost for University College.
Tara E. Stasik, director of academic and student services for University College.

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with 51¶¯Âþ’s commitment to access and affordability, the Bachelor of General Studies offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more.ÌýYou can view the full .

These tuition costs apply to the 2024–2025 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident:Ìý$786Ìýper credit
Out-of-state: $1,413Ìýper credit