General Studies at NIU
Bachelor of General Studies
Follow your own path with our flexible program.
This program lets you select courses that match your interests, creating a one-of-a-kind major. You'll choose classes from across the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, from data-driven science and math to human-centered fields like philosophy and sociology. You can attend part or full time, online or in person.
Learn more about our general studies online degree completion program to see how convenient it can be fo finish your degree.
What Can I Do With a Bachelor of General Studies Degree From NIU?
With a Bachelor of General Studies (B.G.S.) degree, you'll be prepared to begin or advance your career. You'll also be ready for graduate or professional school.
Top skills you'll develop:
- Customer service
- Leadership
- Management
- Public speaking
- Strategic planning
Top fields you can work in:
- Education
- Retail
- Insurance
- Government
- Transportation and logistics
Other Programs to Consider
Career Potential for NIU General Studies Majors
Average mid-career salary:
$78,067
Top employers include:
- Allstate
- Amazon
- Archdiocese of Chicago
- Edward Hospital
- Northwestern Medicine
- U.S. Army
Job titles include:
- Account executive
- Administrative assistant
- Business development manager
- Chief executive officer
- Office manager
- President
Source: Steppingblocks, 2023
What to Expect as a General Studies Major at NIU
This interdisciplinary program is taught by our dedicated faculty members. You'll work at your own pace, online or in person, full or part time. The critical thinking and communication skills, cultural awareness, and ethical values you develop will be valued by employers.
Related Websites
How We’ll Help You Succeed
Apply for free and we’ll automatically consider you for a renewable merit scholarship.
Earn your bachelor’s degree fast with our affordable tuition and fees. Any credit hours you take over 12 are free (per semester).
Prepare to thrive after graduation with personalized support from Career Services.
With our truth-in-tuition policy, you’ll get the same fixed tuition rate for four continuous years, whether you live in Illinois or another state.
Apply to NIU
First-year Students
(Freshman)
High School GPA
3.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed general NIU admission.
ACT/SAT SCORES
Not considered.
We think your high school GPA is a better predictor of your success.
Transfer Students
ALL COLLEGES GPA
2.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed general NIU admission.
ALL COLLEGES GPA
3.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed a
renewable merit scholarship.