For those who have considered pursuing an associate degree that’s versatile while building the foundation for a future career, an associate in general studies could be ideal. With a focus on developing valuable, transferable skills across a wide range of industries, a general studies associate degree can build the groundwork for your professional or educational goals.
So, what is a general studies degree, and what are the key benefits of pursuing one?
What Is a General Studies Associate Degree?
A general studies associate degree is a program designed to be completed in an average of two years (though completion time can vary depending on your enrollment status and other factors). As the name implies, a general studies degree is interdisciplinary in its design—covering courses across a variety of fields and subjects that suit the individual student’s interests and goals.
Core Components and Curriculum of an Associate in General Studies
The core components and specific curriculum of a general studies associate degree can vary from one school to the next. It will likely cover a well-rounded diversity of subjects, including (but not limited to):
- Humanities
- Psychology and human relations
- Mathematics
- Natural and social sciences
- Communications and English composition
For instance, at Baker College, the associate in general studies degree consists of 60 credit hours. Within this program, students can choose from 15 hours of elective credits, 15 hours of general education credits, and 30 hours of Michigan Transfer Agreement courses.
Practical Skills Developed Earning an Associate in General Studies
By completing coursework across a range of fields and disciplines, students gain a number of transferable and technical skills that can serve them well in their careers.
- Transferable skills – Graduates of a general studies associate degree program can apply critical thinking, problem-solving, communication (written and oral), interpersonal, and collaboration skills to their professional lives.
- Technical skills – As part of a general studies associate degree program, students can also gain a basic proficiency in relevant software and technology that may serve them well in their future careers, as well as research and data analysis skills. Additionally, project management and organizational skills can benefit graduates who go on to work in leadership, managerial, or similar roles.
6 Benefits of Earning a General Studies Associate Degree
There are numerous benefits of a general studies degree that can make this a compelling option for students from all walks of life.
Cost-Effective Education
First, consider that an associate degree comes with significantly lower tuition costs when compared to a “traditional” four-year degree. This makes an associate degree in general studies a practical and cost-effective option for those who don’t want to accumulate substantial student loan debt to earn a degree.
Plus, many associate degree programs have financial aid options available, including grants and scholarships (which do not need to be paid back). Learn more about financial aid options at Baker College, as well as application deadlines for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) here.
Time Efficiency
While a typical bachelor’s degree takes around four years to complete, an associate degree in general studies is designed to be completed in two years (or even less, in some cases). This may be beneficial to those who are eager to enter the workforce and begin their careers with minimal delay, especially when compared to those waiting four or more years to break into their careers.
Some students in an associate degree program may even be able to enter the workforce while they’re still in school, particularly if they take advantage of online degree programs that offer a greater sense of flexibility and versatility to non-traditional students.
Builds a Foundation for Further Education
One of the biggest benefits of a general studies degree is the simple fact that it prepares graduates for further education if they choose to pursue more advanced degrees down the road. Because the curriculum of a general studies program is customizable, students can sample courses across a vast range of subjects and disciplines. This, in turn, can make for a more seamless transition to a bachelor’s degree program later on. Look for an associate degree program in general studies that meets prerequisites for advanced study while offering opportunities for continuous learning and professional development.
Career Flexibility and Mobility
With the broad skill set built in a general studies degree program, graduates may also be able to enjoy a greater sense of career flexibility and mobility. This means that if you decide to change career paths down the road, the diverse skills you gained during your degree program may offer the adaptability needed to take on various job roles and responsibilities. In this sense, having a general studies associate degree could provide greater job market resilience in an ever-changing and unpredictable economy.
Personal Growth and Development
In a general studies degree program, you’ll have the opportunity to explore diverse subjects that foster intellectual curiosity and a sense of personal growth. By being able to delve into the different subjects and courses that truly interest you, you can empower your own lifelong learning and adaptability. Meanwhile, students in a general studies program also tend to develop a well-rounded perspective on a wide range of issues due to their diverse educational experiences.
Balanced Work-Life Preparation
These days, time management and organizational skills are important in nearly any line of work (and life in general). These are core skills that students can expect to gain as part of a general studies program. Likewise, students who develop the ability to balance their coursework with personal and professional responsibilities will be more extensively prepared for the real demands of the modern workforce.
Career Opportunities with a General Studies Associate Degree
Now that we’ve covered the many benefits of a general studies degree (including career flexibility), you might wonder exactly what kind of work you can do with an associate degree in general studies. No matter if you’re interested in business, education, healthcare, marketing, or just about any field in between, there are career opportunities out there for you to explore.
Business and Administration
Within the business and administration realm, there are numerous jobs for which you may qualify with an associate degree in general studies. Some examples include administrative assistant, customer service representative, and office manager or office administrator. Although some management roles may require a bachelor’s degree, this is not always the case.
Healthcare
Are you called to make a direct difference in the lives of patients and their families? If so, consider pursuing a healthcare role after completing your general studies degree. Common examples of healthcare jobs you could pursue with an associate degree include medical receptionist, healthcare assistant, and patient coordinator.
In many cases, an associate degree in general studies can also prepare you for a bachelor’s degree in nursing or a related medical program.
Education
While you do need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree to work as a teacher, there are still plenty of roles in education to explore with an associate degree in general studies. For example, you could apply your skills as a teacher’s aide/assistant, an educational program assistant, or even a library technician. Many such roles in education require no more than a high school diploma or associate degree, offering on-the-job training to help you succeed.
Social Services
If you’re interested in a social services role where you can serve individuals, families, and populations in need, then an associate degree in general studies could qualify you for a number of rewarding positions. Consider, for instance, working as a social services assistant, community outreach coordinator, or program assistant where you can make a practical, positive difference in people’s lives.
Public Relations and Marketing
Though some jobs in public relations and marketing do require the specialized knowledge and skills of a bachelor’s degree, certain roles may consider applicants with an associate degree or a high school diploma. Some examples include marketing assistant, social media coordinator, and public relations assistant. This line of work can be an excellent choice for those passionate about building a positive brand image while collaborating with others.
Start Your Associate Degree at Baker College!
Whether you’re undecided on a future major or simply want to diversify your skill set, a general studies associate degree can build the foundation for your education while fostering growth and development. And if you’re still looking for the right general studies program, Baker College has you covered.
Our associate degree in general studies is available both on-campus and online—and is designed to be completed in as little as two years. In this program, you’ll have the opportunity to study a vast variety of subjects while gaining a better understanding of the world around you. Plus, should you choose to take your education even further, our curriculum meets transfer requirements for colleges and universities throughout the state of Michigan.Get in touch today to learn more about this program or other programs Baker offers. Ready to get started? Complete your online application for enrollment!