Why Choose General Studies at Bethel University?
General Studies is the most flexible degree Bethel University offers, built for students who want a broad, well-rounded college foundation without committing to a single major right away. In 60 to 61 hours, you build real breadth across the liberal arts, from writing and history to science, math, social science, and the fine arts, while keeping room to explore your interests through electives. It is a smart, adaptable path that fits a lot of different goals.
The degree works especially well as a launching point. Earn it as a two-year credential and step into the workforce, or use it as a strong, transfer-ready foundation toward a bachelor's degree at Bethel or elsewhere. Offered as either a Bachelor of Arts-track associate or a science-focused associate, it lets you lean toward the humanities and language or toward the sciences, so the degree can bend to match where you are headed.
What You’ll Learn
In this program, you will learn:
- Strong college-level writing skills across composition and literature
- A foundation in college mathematics
- Knowledge of the natural sciences through laboratory coursework
- An understanding of history at the collegiate level
- A grounding in religion or philosophy and the questions they explore
- Exposure to the fine arts, social sciences, and human behavior
- The breadth, critical thinking, and communication skills that transfer across fields and careers
Courses You'll Take
General Studies is built on a broad liberal arts foundation rather than a single subject major. Core coursework includes:
COE 102, College Orientation Experience
ENG 101, Expository Writing and ENG 111, Writing about Literature
ENG 201 and ENG 202, Western Literature and the Arts I and II
Mathematics (MTH 111 or higher)
Laboratory Science
History (6 hours, 200 level)
Religion or Philosophy (6 hours)
Beyond the liberal arts core, the program core adds a social science, health, fine arts, physical activity, and language component, along with elective hours you choose to round out the degree.
Career Possibilities
Transfer to a Bachelor's Program
Uses the degree as a transfer-ready foundation toward a bachelor's in a chosen field.
Administrative or Office Professional
Applies strong writing, communication, and organizational skills in an office or support role.
Customer Service or Client Relations Associate
Works directly with customers or clients, drawing on communication and problem-solving skills.
Retail or Sales Associate
Supports sales and operations in a retail or business setting.
Community or Nonprofit Support Staff
Contributes to the programs and operations of a community organization or nonprofit.
Entry-Level Business or Government Worker
Steps into an entry-level role that values a broad, well-rounded education.
General Studies is designed for flexibility, so graduates pursue a wide range of paths depending on the electives and interests they build the degree around.
Related Degrees and Programs
If you’re interested in this degree or program, here are others you might find intriguing.
