Best Online General Studies Programs

TBS Staff Writers
By
Updated on February 26, 2024

General Studies Degree Online

Earning a general studies degree online allows students to engage with many topics. Furthermore, while students often choose this educational path as a soul-searching adventure, the degree offers many benefits for graduates who wish to turn it into a career. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that business and financial occupations—both of which may employ candidates with broad knowledge — will grow at faster-than-average rates from 2022 to 2032; their median annual salaries represent higher-than-average wages as well.

Students pursuing a general studies degree online build a solid educational foundation and gain knowledge in different fields while creating their own academic path. Some students may pursue a single concentration or complementary specializations, whereas others may choose to prepare for future studies with a mixture of undergraduate courses. Educational freedom allows students to develop a professional expertise wholly designed around their interests.

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The Best Online Bachelor’s in General Studies Programs

The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1 Best Online General Studies Programs

University of South Florida

  • Location-markerTampa, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Tampa-based University of South Florida is a public institution that offers 42 online programs, including a bachelor of general studies. Enrollees benefit from the institution's strong academic record and flexible programs.

Synchronous and asynchronous classes let learners schedule coursework around other responsibilities. Academic advisors and tutors help students master their coursework. Learners can participate in an internship program to gain hands-on experience. Online degree-seekers often meet internship requirements in their local community.

After completing graduation requirements, students receive an accredited bachelor's degree. The general studies program prepares graduates for careers in business, healthcare, education, and other growing fields.

University of South Florida Fast Facts:

Online Student Enrollment: 45,596

Total Bachelor's Programs: 92

Online Bachelor's Programs: 9

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22-to-1

Admission Rate: 49%

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$3,647
  • Out-of-state$11,963
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$8,350
  • Out-of-state$19,048
  • Retention Rate92%
  • Acceptance Rate41%
  • Students Enrolled48,566
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment68%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 Best Online General Studies Programs

University of Central Florida

  • Location-markerOrlando, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

From its campus in Orlando, the University of Central Florida grants degrees as a public institution. Learners seeking an online learning format can choose from 136 online programs, including a bachelor's in integrative general studies. Distance learners benefit from the institution's strong academic reputation.

At the school, online degree-seekers enroll in synchronous and asynchronous classes. Career counselors help students plan their next steps after graduation. Enrollees can engage in hands-on learning opportunities, including internships and practicums. The general studies program works with enrollees to approve local internship sites.

The school awards accredited bachelor's degrees to graduates of its online programs. With a bachelor's degree in general studies, graduates can launch careers in business, education, healthcare, and other in-demand fields.

University of Central Florida Fast Facts:

Online Student Enrollment: 6,367

Total Bachelor's Programs: 94

Online Bachelor's Programs: 26

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 31-to-1

Admission Rate: 45%

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,368
  • Out-of-state$22,467
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$6,916
  • Out-of-state$25,759
  • Retention Rate92%
  • Acceptance Rate43%
  • Students Enrolled68,844
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment9%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 Best Online General Studies Programs

University of Missouri-Columbia

  • Location-markerColumbia, MO
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

The University of Missouri-Columbia enrolls students as a public institution. Learners interested in earning an online degree can choose from 87 options, including a bachelor of general studies. Online degree-seekers benefit from a flexible learning format and the school's strong reputation for academic quality.

Online learners can take classes that require no set meeting times. Virtual tutoring support helps students master academic material, and learners can engage in internships to gain hands-on experience. The institution works with enrollees to find local experiential learning sites.

Students who complete graduation requirements earn an accredited bachelor's degree. With a bachelor's degree in general studies, graduates can work in business, education, healthcare, and other in-demand fields that require a college degree.

University of Missouri-Columbia Fast Facts:

Online Student Enrollment: 27,138

Total Bachelor's Programs: 83

Online Bachelor's Programs: 14

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1

Admission Rate: 82%

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$13,000
  • Out-of-state$33,200
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$12,000
  • Out-of-state$30,000
  • Retention Rate91%
  • Acceptance Rate77%
  • Students Enrolled31,041
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment53%
  • AccreditationYes
#4 Best Online General Studies Programs

Parker University

  • Location-markerDallas, TX
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

A private institution, Parker University offers online degrees from its Dallas, Texas, campus. The school delivers 28 online programs, including a bachelor's in general studies. Online degree-seekers benefit from a flexible format and high academic standards.

At the school, learners can choose classes that do not require live sessions. Academic advisors and career counselors help students reach their goals. Learners can engage in internships to gain hands-on experience. Enrollees work with the institution to find local experiential learning sites.

Students who complete coursework requirements graduate with an accredited bachelor's degree. A degree in general studies can lead to careers in business, healthcare, education, and other in-demand fields.

Parker University Fast Facts:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,225

Online Bachelor's Programs: 10

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10-to-1

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$25,560
  • Out-of-state$25,560
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$14,346
  • Out-of-state$14,346
  • Retention Rate25%
  • Acceptance RateNot provided
  • Students Enrolled2,196
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment32%
  • AccreditationYes
#5 Best Online General Studies Programs

University of Arkansas eVersity

  • Location-markerLittle Rock, AR
  • 4 year
  • Online

Located in Little Rock, the University of Arkansas eVersity enrolls students in online bachelor's programs as a public institution. The school offers 10 online programs, including a bachelor's in general studies. The online programs offer rigorous academics in a flexible format.

At the school, learners can choose classes that do not require live sessions. Online tutoring helps students master academic material. Degree-seekers can engage in hands-on learning opportunities, including internships. The institution works with enrollees to find local experiential learning sites.

After completing at least 120 credits, students can graduate with an accredited bachelor's degree. The general studies degree can lead to job opportunities in business, healthcare, education, and other growing fields.

University of Arkansas eVersity Fast Facts:

Online Bachelor's Programs: 5

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 29-to-1

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$3,675
  • Out-of-state$3,675
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateNot provided
  • Out-of-stateNot provided
  • Retention RateNot provided
  • Acceptance RateNot provided
  • Students Enrolled668
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online EnrollmentNot provided
  • AccreditationNo
#6 Best Online General Studies Programs

Utah Valley University

  • Location-markerOrem, UT
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

Located in Orem, Utah Valley University offers undergraduate degrees as a public institution. Learners interested in an online degree can choose from 22 remote options, including a bachelor's in university studies. The online programs blend flexibility with high academic standards.

Degree-seekers choose from synchronous and asynchronous classes. Academic advisors, tutors, and career counselors help learners reach their goals. Students can complete internships to build their resumes. Enrollees work with the institution to connect with local internships.

After meeting graduation requirements, students earn an accredited bachelor's degree. The bachelor's in university studies meets the requirements for many entry-level roles in business, education, healthcare, and other growing fields.

Utah Valley University Fast Facts:

Online Student Enrollment: 28,671

Total Bachelor's Programs: 95

Online Bachelor's Programs: 11

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 24-to-1

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,614
  • Out-of-state$17,174
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$9,152
  • Out-of-state$22,382
  • Retention Rate70%
  • Acceptance Rate100%
  • Students Enrolled44,653
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment47%
  • AccreditationYes
#7 Best Online General Studies Programs

University of North Texas

  • Location-markerDenton, TX
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

From its campus in Denton, the University of North Texas grants degrees as a public institution. In addition to on-campus options, the school enrolls distance learners in 31 online programs. One option includes a bachelor's in general studies. Those who prefer the flexibility of an online format benefit from the institution's high academic standards.

The school offers both synchronous and asynchronous course schedules. Career counselors help learners plan their next steps after graduation. Students can also participate in hands-on learning opportunities like internships. Enrollees work with the institution to find local experiential learning sites.

The school's online programs award accredited bachelor's degrees. Graduates of the general studies program can pursue jobs in fields such as business, education, and healthcare.

University of North Texas Fast Facts:

Online Student Enrollment: 29,658

Total Bachelor's Programs: 94

Online Bachelor's Programs: 5

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 26-to-1

Admission Rate: 84%

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$8,404
  • Out-of-state$21,004
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,160
  • Out-of-state$14,720
  • Retention Rate77%
  • Acceptance Rate72%
  • Students Enrolled47,507
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment69%
  • AccreditationYes
#8 Best Online General Studies Programs

Trine University

  • Location-markerFort Wayne, IN
  • 4 year
  • Online

From its Fort Wayne, Indiana, campus, Trine University enrolls students as a private institution. At the school, learners can choose from 27 online programs, including a bachelor's in general studies. Those who prefer an online format benefit from the institution's strong academic record and flexible learning options.

The school provides synchronous and asynchronous course options. Majors work closely with academic advisors and career counselors. Learners prepare for the workforce through hands-on learning opportunities and work with the school to identify relevant experiential learning sites in their area.

After meeting graduation requirements, students receive an accredited bachelor's degree. A bachelor's degree in general studies can lead to opportunities in business, healthcare, education, and other in-demand fields.

Trine University Fast Facts:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,040

Online Bachelor's Programs: 16

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 7-to-1

Admission Rate: 39%

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$9,576
  • Out-of-state$9,576
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$10,350
  • Out-of-state$10,350
  • Retention Rate100%
  • Acceptance Rate22%
  • Students Enrolled8,230
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment96%
  • AccreditationYes
#9 Best Online General Studies Programs

The University of Texas at Arlington

  • Location-markerArlington, TX
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

The University of Texas at Arlington is a public institution with an online bachelor's degree in university studies. At the school, learners can enroll in 19 online programs. Those who prefer an online format benefit from the institution's varied options and rigorous academic standards.

At the school, learners can choose classes that do not require live sessions. Online tutoring support helps degree-seekers master academic material. The school's internship programs offer hands-on learning opportunities. Distance learners work with the school to find local experiential learning sites.

Students who complete general education and major requirements graduate with an accredited bachelor's degree. Bachelor's graduates can launch careers in business, education, healthcare, and other in-demand fields.

The University of Texas at Arlington Fast Facts:

Online Student Enrollment: 26,614

Online Bachelor's Programs: 3

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 24-to-1

Admission Rate: 88%

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$9,206
  • Out-of-state$27,138
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$9,015
  • Out-of-state$23,507
  • Retention Rate73%
  • Acceptance Rate81%
  • Students Enrolled43,992
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment53%
  • AccreditationYes
#10 Best Online General Studies Programs

University of Management and Technology

  • Location-markerArlington, VA
  • 4 year
  • Online

A private institution, the University of Management and Technology operates a main campus in Arlington, Virginia. In addition to on-campus programs, the school delivers 38 online programs. One option includes a bachelor of science in general studies. The school's distance programs provide high-quality educational opportunities in a flexible format.

The school offers both synchronous and asynchronous course schedules. Academic advisors, tutors, and career counselors support learners during their studies. Degree-seekers can pursue internships to build career-focused skills. The institution works with enrollees to identify local experiential learning sites.

After completing graduation requirements, students receive an accredited bachelor's degree. Graduates may launch careers in business, healthcare, education, and other growing fields.

University of Management and Technology Fast Facts:

Online Student Enrollment: 293

Online Bachelor's Programs: 8

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9-to-1

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$9,360
  • Out-of-state$9,360
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,020
  • Out-of-state$7,020
  • Retention Rate100%
  • Acceptance RateNot provided
  • Students Enrolled1,167
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment100%
  • AccreditationYes
Rankings Methodology

The Advantages of a General Studies Education

For students looking to obtain a well-rounded education with training in multiple fields, a general studies degree online might represent a good option. These diverse degrees not only prepare graduates for entry-level positions in a number of industries, but they also provide a strong educational foundation for further study.

With an associate degree in general studies, for example, graduates may pursue entry-level careers in business, finance, customer service, or journalism. They might use the degree to discover a field for a bachelor’s degree, further develop a professional skill set, or help them determine the ideal concentration for a master’s degree. And depending on the courses taken, an online bachelor’s degree in general studies can open promising career options for graduates.

Choosing an Online General Studies Degree Program

To choose the best online general studies degree, students should think about a number of factors and how they might impact their educational path. With the proliferation of online programs and advances in course delivery, students now enjoy access to a wider pool of programs, which allows them to be more selective. In the past, for instance, in-state programs offered students the most affordable option (since out-of-state programs typically charge higher tuition rates for nonresidents). But now, many online programs offer a flat rate or discounted tuition for all students.

The list below identifies important factors for potential students to consider as they are deciding between online schools and programs.

  • Program Cost: Students should evaluate the total program cost, considering tuition and required materials, but also facility usages, faculty, and program reputation. Online programs provide students with more choices and often more flexible study options, but students should carefully examine if any additional costs exist for out-of-state students.
  • Transfer Policies: For students with previous education or a desire to study further in the future, a strong transfer credit policy should sit high on the list of priorities. Transfer credits can decrease the length of study time and the cost of a degree dramatically.
  • School Size and Type: Different school sizes and types may offer advantages for certain students or match the preferences for others. Smaller school and class sizes, for example, may offer students more interaction opportunities with teachers, whereas larger schools may provide more diverse programs options.
  • Program Length: Program lengths vary with online programming. While students with flexible schedules may seek the shortest program possible, these accelerated schedules can prove intense. For working professionals, longer, part-time programs may allow for the optimal study/work balance.
  • On-Campus Requirements: Online students should understand on-campus requirements, specifically for out-of-state programs. While online study allows students to access programs from all over the country, mandatory on-campus sessions may limit a student’s choices. Students should know when those sessions take place and how long they last.

Accreditation for Online General Studies Doctoral Degrees

Accreditation offers students quality assurance. Not only does accreditation ensure students that their prospective institution and its programs meet a high educational standard, but it also provides assurances for funding providers, employers, and other institutions granting transfer credits.

For schools, accreditation comes from approved regional accrediting agencies and from privately owned national accreditors.

Approved by the Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, accreditors require institutions to meet high standards. Students should ensure their desired school or program received accreditation through the Database of Postsecondary Institutions and Programs.

While many programs receive accreditation, no single accrediting organization oversees general studies programs. Still, depending on a student’s career interests, certain programmatic accreditations may prove more useful than others. The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, for example, provide accreditations for business schools and programs. In the business environment, certain employers may require or prefer candidates from these programs.

While programmatic accreditation may improve a graduate’s employment chances, students should consider regional and national accreditation a necessity.

General Studies Concentrations

In an online general studies bachelor’s degree, students benefit from concentrations. They may explore topics of interest in more detail or prepare for a specific career choice by way of focused tracks. The following table highlights common concentrations available in an accredited online general studies degree and what students might do with them.

Criminal Justice

In this concentration, students learn foundational concepts from the U.S. legal system (e.g., psychology, juvenile law, and the court system). Students may combine their teachings in other fields—like business or information technology — to apply criminal justice teachings to another field.

Careers this concentration prepares for: Law Office Administration, Paralegal and Legal Assistant.

Information Studies

Students take classes in areas like informatics, database design, programming, and networks. With technological advancements taking place within most industries, information studies skills and training may prove very useful, especially when combined with training in fields like business or communications.

Careers this concentration prepares for: Network Administrator and Web Developer.

Finance

Finance concentrations provide students with training in business finances, budgeting, and purchasing. Courses teach students how to optimize resources and identify inefficiencies within organizations. Students may supplement this training with business, communication, mathematics, or management training to maximize its usefulness.

Careers this concentration prepares for: Personal Finance Advisor, Financial Examiner and Financial Analyst.

Marketing

Within a concentration in marketing, students delve into areas of advertising, public relations, and sales. While primarily business-focused, marketing tracks prepare graduates for careers within a variety of industries by providing an understanding of product and service consumption. Graduates may apply these to several customer-facing careers and industries.

Careers this concentration prepares for: Sales Manager, Advertising Agent and Public Relations Specialist.

Public Health

This concentration provides students with an understanding of the healthcare system, disease, and the delivery of health services. Students may take classes in epidemiology, health records, and healthcare policies and procedures. Combined with the skills and training in business, communication, or information systems, students may expand their career options within the healthcare industry.

Careers this concentration prepares for: Social Service Assistant and Health Services Administrator.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Degree in General Studies?

Most general studies degrees consist of 120 credits and take students an average of four years to complete. The time to completion depends on several factors, including transfer credit policies, course delivery, school terms, and course loads. Some schools offer accelerated programs or courses, whereas others offer more start dates or allow for heavier course loads. Students looking to finish quickly should explore these options.

Students should consider delivery options as well. Online courses, for example, often deliver materials asynchronously, enabling students to create more flexible study schedules. Working professionals can build a study schedule that allows them to work around their jobs while they complete the degree at a comfortable pace. Students with prior undergraduate study might want to explore schools with strong transfer credit policies to reduce the time and cost of the degree.

No matter what a student requires, the number of program options available makes it so everyone can find what they need.

Courses in an Online Bachelor’s in General Studies Program

An online general studies bachelor’s degree is one of the most flexible degree options available. Most programs allow students to customize their degree to fit their prior academic experience and professional aspirations. An online general studies curriculum includes general education requirements and coursework in areas such as research methods, public speaking, and professional writing. Many programs feature interdisciplinary courses with topics in practical philosophy, technology’s impact on society, and strategies for professional success.

  • Social Sciences: While social sciences represent a broad category, many online general studies degrees require students to complete a certain number of credits in this field. Courses may cover topics like economics, American studies, criminology, and psychology. General degrees place importance on the social sciences because they teach students how a society operates, covering the challenges and factors that go into making it work.
  • Humanities: Like social sciences, the humanities play a large role in most general degrees. Humanities courses explore the human side of society and culture, examining various disciplines like English, history, and politics. Courses in the humanities teach students analytical skills and provide foundational knowledge for many potential careers.
  • Communications: Communications courses teach students to communicate clearly and effectively in a number of settings. Courses may focus on professional writing and mass media (e.g., television, radio, and social media). Study options in this field expand as our media and communication methods evolve.
  • Research Strategies: Though research may seem purely academic, these skills transfer to the professional world. By providing students with advanced research skills, these courses prepare them to develop research questions, engage with problems, and arrive at solutions. Students utilize online resources and libraries.
  • Mathematics Foundation: In a mathematics foundations course, students typically learn to use mathematics to solve problems faced in the professional world. Some courses engage with statistics, algebra, or geometry, teaching students how these fundamental branches of mathematics apply to different professions and situations.

General Studies Degree Salary Information

A unique feature of an online general studies bachelor’s degree is its versatility. Students gain a broad general foundation in areas including business administration, early childhood education, and sales management. Below, we have compiled potential careers for students who complete their general studies degree online.

Image Credit: hsyncoban | Getty Images

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