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General Studies Degree Online Bachelor of Arts Program
Program Overview Why get a general studies degree online?
If you have previously earned college credits, an online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in General Studies from Southern New Hampshire University could be your fast track to a 4-year degree. With 63 elective credits, it's easy to maximize your transfer credits and get a degree in the shortest amount of time – especially if you're already working in a field you love. And coursework can be customized to your previous college experience and career goals.
Skills you'll learn:
- Principles of social justice and civic responsibility
- Effective communication tools
- Creative expression and critical thinking
- Intercultural collaboration
- Problem-solving techniques
- Data-driven analytical reasoning
Courses & Curriculum Online general studies classes that help you cross the finish line
Southern New Hampshire University's general studies degree curriculum includes general education classes, elective classes and classes to help you earn a concentration in 1 area of study. This combination provides a solid liberal arts foundation, while allowing you to customize your degree to your interest and career goals.
To earn a general studies degree at SNHU, you’ll need to earn 42 credits of core general education courses. These courses are the foundation for your learning and cover everything from writing and humanities to mathematics, history and science.
General Studies Degree Concentrations
The BA in General Studies program includes a 12-credit area of concentration that aligns with your coursework, interests and career goals.
You can see a full list of concentrations in the course catalog, but some of our most popular general studies concentrations are:
Business Administration
Develop the fundamental skills needed to succeed in a wide variety of fast-paced business environments with an online bachelor's in general studies with a concentration in business administration.
Courses may include:
- Financial Accounting
- Principles of Management
- Applied Marketing Strategies
Coding Basics
Learn the fundamentals of object-oriented programming that can help you enter one of the nation's fastest growing fields with an online bachelor's in general studies with a concentration in coding basics.
Courses may include:
- Introduction to Scripting
- Foundation in Application Development
Communication
Attain the knowledge, competencies and confidence required to kickstart your career in the rapidly changing industry of communication with an online bachelor's in general studies with a concentration in communication.
Courses may include:
- Visual Communication and Design
- Social Media Strategy
- Organizational Branding
Criminal Justice
Develop strong interpersonal skills and a deep understanding of our legal system with an online bachelor's in general studies with a concentration in criminal justice.
Courses may include:
- The United States Judicial System
- Technology in Criminal Justice
- Introduction to Homeland Security and Counterterrorism
Entrepreneurship
Gain the skills you need to start and manage your own business with an online bachelor’s in general studies with a concentration in entrepreneurship.
Courses may include:
- Small Business Management
- Entrepreneurship
- Business Plan Preparation
Psychology
Immerse yourself in cutting-edge theories to develop a skill set that translates to any field where understanding human behavior is important with an online bachelor's in general studies with a concentration in psychology.
Courses may include:
- Lifespan Development
- Abnormal Psychology
- Foundations of Addictions
Online General Studies Courses
You'll start you general studies bachelor's degree program with a 3-credit degree planning course to help you establish goals and outline your coursework with clear path to graduation. Then you'll need 42 general education credits, 12 credits in a concentration of your choice and 63 elective course credits to round out the 120-credit program.
Courses may include:
Strategies for Specialization Planning
Course ID:
IND 299
Develop an academic plan of study in alignment with a selected specialization within the General Studies major. Establish a rationale for specialization selection reflective of previous education experience, interest, and background toward future career goals.
Visit the course catalog to view the full BA in General Studies curriculum.
The Commons: SNHU's gen ed program
All undergraduate students are required to take general education courses, which are part of SNHU's newly redesigned program, The Commons. The goal of The Commons' curriculum is to empower you with some of the most in-demand skills, so you can succeed not only in your academic career, but in your personal and professional life too.
Courses may include:
Cultural Awareness and Online Learning
Course ID:
IDS 105
This course introduces students to the skills relevant to university learning, and the foundational knowledge and values of intercultural fluency needed to understand and effectively navigate the complexities of contemporary society. Students will examine the various factors that influence an individual's perception of justice and the impacts that cultural and social diversity have on collaboration and communication processes. Through the application of interpersonal communication strategies, students will also learn to navigate various interpersonal conflict situations.
Self, Society, and the Humanities
Course ID:
HUM 102
In this course, students explore the interaction between individuals and society as a framework for understanding cultural inquiry. Through the examination of the scientific, creative, cultural, and historical humanities, students develop a practice of reflexivity to describe conceptions of self, others, and systems and their interconnectedness.
Foundations of Written Communication
Course ID:
ENG 130
This course focuses on written communication and writing practice. Students will gain the critical reading and information literacy related skills vital to academic and workplace success. Students will explore methods to analyze, summarize, and evaluate written works to isolate key ideas and information. Students will examine how to adapt the writing process to a variety of writing situations and present their own perspectives in written form.
Mathematical Reasoning for Modern Problem-Solving
Course ID:
MAT 126
In this course, students learn about the use of mathematical reasoning and the practical application of quantitative techniques to inform their decision-making process. Students will develop the skills to critically examine elements of a problem they might face in their day-to-day personal and professional lives, solve for various outcomes using quantitative techniques, and make informed decisions.
Ethics in Global Society
Course ID:
PHL 218
In this course, students explore various ethical frameworks from a cultural and global perspective. Students examine the ways that ethics influence actions, decisions, and perceptions. Furthermore, students develop associated skills related to critical thinking, such as awareness of bias, to analyze issues from an ethical standpoint.
STEM Principles and Problem-Solving
Course ID:
SCI 260
In this course, students learn to apply science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) methodologies to a wide variety of contemporary issues and complex challenges within society to obtain knowledge and use that knowledge to develop recommendations and propose solutions. Students will leverage a scientific mindset to gather information, analyze data, and communicate information in varying ways based on their intended audience.
Social Issues and Decision-Making
Course ID:
SCS 260
In this course, students use social science methodologies to analyze various sociocultural issues and their impacts on society. In their exploration of the concept of society and how it manifests in different cultures, students learn to contextualize themselves within society, examine the relationship between the individual and society, and analyze the ethical implications of decision-making related to contemporary social issues.
Minimum Specifications:
- CPU: Intel Core i7 12th Gen or AMD Ryzen 7 5000 series
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3070 (Laptop GPU) or AMD Radeon RX 6750M+
- RAM: 16GB DDR4 (32GB recommended for multitasking and creative work)
- Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD (1TB recommended for longevity)
- Display: 15.6” FHD (1920x1080), 60Hz+ (QHD optional for creative/visual work)
- OS: Windows 11 Home or Pro
- Internet/bandwidth: 5Mbps download, 1Mbps upload and less than 100ms latency
Additional Information:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Where to purchase: You may purchase any computer brand you wish from any location/reseller, relying on the minimum specs provided to ensure the acquisition of an appropriate machine. We recommend asking your preferred vendor if they offer a student discount, since many do.
- Mac users: You must verify your machine offers comparable specs.
- Devices that don’t meet minimum requirements: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device.
- Microsoft Office software: Office 365 is available to all students for free. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion.
- Antivirus software: This is strongly recommended for online students. Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Licensure and Certification Disclosures
SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page.
Apply for free in minutes
Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!
Upcoming term starts: October 27, 2025 | January 5, 2026
Next term starts:
September 1, 2025
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 91.6% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2024 survey with 8,000+ respondents.
What to expect:
8-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
Dedicated to your success
Our instructors are at the heart of SNHU's mission of student success. With passionate dedication to our students and their learning, our faculty are with you every step of the way. Whether they are engaging with students on discussion boards, communicating concepts and ideas, or helping you explore your passion, SNHU instructors strive to make your learning experience valuable and memorable.
Featured Faculty
Priscilla Hobbs
Prior to coming to SNHU, Priscilla Hobbs taught general education humanities at Austin Community College and Lone Star College in Texas. Hobbs is a cultural mythologist and interdisciplinary scholar who authored works such as “Walt’s Utopia: Disneyland and American Mythmaking” and “Harry Potter and the Myth of Millennials: Identity, Reception and Politics.” She's a peer reviewer for The Journal of Popular Culture.
Position
Senior Associate Dean, General Education
Joined SNHU
2016
Education
- PhD and MA in Mythological Studies from Pacifica Graduate Institute
- MA in Humanities from Union Institute & University
- BA in Anthropology from the University of Houston
What our instructors have to say
“The general studies degree is designed to help students achieve their goal of a degree without having to start over because they transferred universities."
Priscilla Hobbs
"In the first-year experience, we have a mantra of persist, engage and network - or PEN. The mantra guides our approach to ensuring that we keep our students first and support their progress at SNHU."
"To me, letting students know you are a real person and have empathy and respect for their educational journey is key."
"What is most rewarding is the end of the semester, when students will send me an email, leave a note in the comments section of the final project, write a statement on the discussion board, or leave feedback in my evaluation with specific moments that mattered to them."
What does an online course look like?
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
- Schedule of weekly assignments
- Discussion boards
- Grades
- Instructor announcements
What support services are available?
- Chat with your advisors
Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors. - Drop in for tutoring
Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary. - Learn from industry professionals
Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away. - Use the online library
Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7. - Reach out for accessibility help
Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities. - Focus on your well-being
Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
Why SNHU?
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report
Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North - The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology - Google.org
Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 250,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
Step 1: Complete the online application – it only takes minutes.
It's easy, fast and free.
Step 2: Submit additional forms.
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)
Step 3: Make your decision.
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
Online undergraduate tuition
Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 120-credit degree*
Full- and part-time students
$330
$990
$39,600
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students**
$231
$693
$27,720
*before previously earned credits are applied
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
**Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:
$9,900 $14,850 $19,800 $24,750 $29,700If 30 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $29,700
If 45 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $24,750
If 60 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $19,800
If 75 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $14,850
If 90 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $9,900
How we estimate your tuition cost:
We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for a bachelor's degree. Most bachelor's degrees require 120 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 90 credits, requiring a minimum of 30 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator, and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.
Ways to save on online tuition
Transfer your credits
Transfer up to 90 credits toward your bachelor's degree program at SNHU. If you’ve taken one course or many, we’ll evaluate them for you.
Apply for financial aid
Fill out the FAFSA to see if you’re eligible for grants or work-study. (You could also be offered loans, though you’ll have to pay those back later.)
Military discounts and credit
Earn credits in leadership, technology and more – while taking advantage of tuition discounts for active-duty service members and spouses.
Explore scholarships
Getting free money for college – from SNHU or an outside organization – could help you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Earn credit for exams and certificates
Bring in credits from popular options like CLEP, Sophia Learning, Google and other common credit for prior learning (CPL) experiences.
Tuition Reimbursement
Learn how you can save money with tuition reimbursement from your employer.
Benefit from your employer
Take advantage of an online tuition discount through your organization’s partnership with SNHU. Check with your employer to see if your organization partners with us and if you’re eligible for additional tuition savings and partner education benefits.
Career Outlook What can I do with a general studies degree?
A bachelor's degree in general studies can give you the well-rounded education you need to get started in entry-level and management positions or to move ahead in your current career. Many jobs today require a 4-year degree, and earning a bachelor's degree can help you develop the communication, critical thinking and problem solving skills that employers are looking for.
66%
Higher median weekly wages nationally for those with a bachelor’s degree, compared to working with only a high school diploma, according to 2023 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).1 Statistic not based on wage data for SNHU graduates.
2.2%
Unemployment rate for bachelor's degree holders nationally in 2023 (vs. 3.9% for those with only a high school diploma), according to the BLS.1
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections are based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data, not on SNHU graduate outcomes, and do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
What SNHU students are saying
I had a lot of credit hours in other majors, so being able to tie all of that into a degree that would also open up doors in my current career was a major plus
Cody McKee '20
Find out more about an online general studies degree
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do with a degree in general studies?
Earning a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in General Studies can help you find a new career or advance in your current job. In a general studies degree program, you can gain career skills that are sought after by employers, including communication, critical thinking and problem-solving. And you’ll be able to tailor your learning toward subjects that align with your career goals.
Bachelor’s degrees are in high demand. Workers with bachelor’s degrees are more likely to earn more – and have lower rates of unemployment – than those without a 4-year degree.1
According to 2023 median weekly earning data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), bachelor’s degree holders earned about 51% more than workers with some college experience but without a 4-year degree.1 Unemployment rates for workers with a bachelor’s degree were 2.2% in 2023, compared to 3.3% for workers with some college courses but no degree and 3.9% for workers without education beyond a high school diploma.1
A general studies degree can also act as a stepping stone to a more advanced degree. You can earn your undergraduate degree faster and move on to a more specialized online master's degree – boosting your salary and career prospects even more.
The BLS reports master's degree holders earned a median weekly income of $1,737 in 2023 – 16% more than bachelor's degree holders.1
Can you earn a general studies degree online?
Of course. Earning a general studies degree online means you’ll have 24/7 access to course materials. You can complete your coursework when it’s convenient for you, whether that's noon or midnight.
Southern New Hampshire University's online general studies degree was designed for flexibility. Six 8-week terms each year mean you can earn your degree at your own pace, even while balancing a career and family obligations.
Academic advisors can ensure you make the most of any prior education and professional experience. Their guidance can help you earn your bachelor’s degree in the shortest amount of time possible.
As an online student, you’ll still have access to networking opportunities and learning services. Online student services include online clubs, tutoring, writing help and career counseling.
What does a general studies degree mean?
With a general studies degree, you can explore a variety of courses and apply them to a bachelor’s degree. General studies courses include history, natural and social sciences, technology, and humanities.
A general studies degree is particularly helpful if you've already completed some college coursework and want to finish your degree. You can focus your degree on an area of concentration that interests you and aligns with your chosen career path.
With a general studies degree, you can gain career skills and a broad base of education. You can apply your learning to advance your career or start a new one.
"For students to be adequately prepared to do well in their chosen career, they need to have not only the rigor of an academic education but also an applied, relevant and practical curriculum that focuses on the development of these core skills," said Anthony Siciliano, Southern New Hampshire University’s associate vice president of general education programs.
Is general studies the same as liberal arts?
A general studies degree is a type of liberal arts degree and is often a direct extension of an associate of arts degree. Liberal arts also encompasses a number of other majors, usually focused on literature, humanities and social sciences. Liberal arts programs provide general knowledge on a subject, rather than technical skills.
With a bachelor of general studies degree online, you’ll gain a broad base of liberal arts education, exploring social sciences, natural sciences, history and humanities.
Your general education courses can also help you develop key career skills that are in high demand across many industries. You'll develop communication, critical thinking and problem solving skills that you can apply to any career.
How long does a general studies degree take?
It depends. A bachelor’s degree typically takes about 4 years to complete as a full-time student. But a general studies degree can be a faster path to graduation if you’ve already completed some college courses.
The bachelor of general studies was designed to help you leverage past college credits and earn a degree. Southern New Hampshire University accepts up to 90 transfer credits toward a bachelor’s program. This means you could take as few as 10 courses – or 5 terms – to get your degree.
"I was attracted to the general studies program because it utilized most of the credits I have collected throughout the years," said Kaylee Castillo '21.
Our admission team tries to make sure no transfer credits are left behind. And your academic advisor offers guidance and support throughout your degree program to get you to graduation faster.
Is a general studies degree worth it?
Absolutely — it's especially worth it if you're a transfer student, because it could be your fastest path to completing your degree.
Thanks to Southern New Hampshire University's (SNHU) generous transfer policy, which accepts up to 90 transfer credits toward an online bachelor’s degree program, you could take as few as 5 terms – or 10 courses – to earn your general studies degree after transferring.
And even if you aren't a transfer student, a general studies degree can be extremely worthwhile, since bachelor’s degree holders earned median weekly wages 66% higher than workers with only a high school diploma, according to 2023 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.1
Additionally, a general studies degree can further specialize your education or be a springboard for one of SNHU's many graduate degrees.
Why do people get a general studies degree?
Everyone's education journey is different, but one of the most popular motivations for earning a general studies degree is so you can utilize previously earned credits to advance your career.
On the other hand, Kaylee Castillo '21 was motivated to enroll in Southern New Hampshire University's general studies program because it let her earn a degree on an accelerated timeline.
"It allowed me to not only take classes related to my desired job, but it also allowed me to move up my graduation date," she said.
Regardless of your reasoning, a general studies degree can offer a multitude of benefits.
What is another name for general studies degree?
Other names for general studies degree include interdisciplinary studies, liberal studies and liberal arts. These names interchangeably describe a flexible degree that allows a high number of transfer credits and free electives.
Can you put general studies on a resume?
You can without a doubt list a general studies degree on your resume.
Just like a bachelor's in psychology or a bachelor's in business, a bachelor's in general studies from Southern New Hampshire University is an accredited degree from a respected university that can help you stand out amongst the competition when applying for jobs.
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Sources & Citations
1 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/emp/chart-unemployment-earnings-education.htm (viewed April 24, 2024)
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.