• About the BGS Degree
• Degree Requirements
• Admission Requirements
• Admission Procedures
• After You Apply
• Financial Information

• Contacts
• Resources
• Registration Dates
• Information Packet

What will this degree do for me?

A strong foundation in many disciplines will increase your skill in written and oral communication and critical thinking. Human resource professionals tell us that a multi-discipline degree is in high demand because graduates tend to excel in leadership and initiative, interpersonal skills, adaptability, problem solving, teamwork and motivation.

What is a bachelor of general studies?

The bachelor of general studies degree (BGS) is designed to give students the opportunity and flexibility to study several areas of interest while earning an undergraduate degree. The degree offers an interdisciplinary approach to learning that can provide students with the skills necessary to excel in their professions.

The "major" in general studies is composed of three components chosen by the student. Components consist of courses that have been grouped together around a common theme, or subject area. Each component must consist of at least 15 credit hours in that subject area, for a total of 45 or more credit hours. The rest of the credit hours needed for the 120-hour bachelor's degree are made up of general education courses and electives.

The University of Missouri Center for Distance and Independent Study online bachelor of general studies completion program offers a number of different component areas, including business, education studies, English, humanities, and social sciences. The education studies component does not lead to teacher certification. Working with their adviser, students may be able to tailor other component options through combinations of courses in related subjects. Other components may become available in the future.

You may build one entire component from courses taken at other institutions. For instance, you may have completed a group of courses in your first 60 hours that would qualify as one of the three components you need to complete the degree.

You may apply 6 transfer credit hours to the other two components.

What is a completion program?

A bachelor's degree completion program provides an opportunity for a student who has previously earned an associate degree or 60 or more transferable credit hours to return to college and earn a four-year degree. For students who previously attended college and dropped out for whatever reason, such a program allows them to return and complete their education.