Is A General Studies Degree Worth It?

By Dr. Janet L. Deskins  |  09/29/2026

A general studies degree – also known as a degree in interdisciplinary studies – typically offers a wide variety of course selections, so that students may choose to study the academic areas they want to study. This type of degree also aids students with developing career-relevant skills that suit their career aspirations.

As communities continue to grow, the need for an adaptable workforce is vital. The value of this degree program is that it helps students to improve their communication skills and critical thinking. It also helps students to expand on interdisciplinary skills and prepare to seek future job opportunities.

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Advantages of A General Studies Degree

A general studies associate degree or a general studies bachelor’s degree offer basic courses for a foundational higher education and career path. Interested students should seek out which type of degree is the best fit for their general education requirements and career goals.

The interdisciplinary nature of a general studies degree also teaches transferable skills that can apply to different professions in different industries. For instance, a general studies degree promotes important skill development, enabling students to improve their soft skills such as critical thinking, communication, public speaking skills, and problem solving, which can be used in many fields. In addition, a general studies degree offers students the chance to study a broad spectrum of academic fields, rather than just one area of interest.

The courses offered in a general studies program vary, depending upon the university or college. This degree enables students to enhance and expand upon their knowledge and allows for focused concentration in job opportunities in many fields and industries.

Also, the course requirements for a general studies degree may be completed in a shorter period of time if a student has transferable academic credits or relevant work experience. This type of flexibility is especially useful for students seeking a fresh, faster, and effective college education. 

Disadvantages of A General Studies Degree

Some employers may require job candidates to have a specific degree, so it is always best to review job descriptions for your chosen path. You can always begin your academic journey with a general studies degree and then move on to an advanced degree to meet an employer’s expectations.

However, it is always best to do your research and find out what your intended career goal requires in terms of formal education, training, and skills to avoid time spent pursuing the wrong path.

A General Studies Degree Program Applies to Many Fields

General studies graduates can choose to seek a variety of professions. Internships and practical experiences also help to enhance the overall value of a general studies degree.

Examples of fields where general studies majors can seek entry-level opportunities include:

• Business
• Healthcare
• History
• Computer science
• Firefighting
• Public safety
• Information technology

For instance, students with an associate degree in general studies could seek work as a social and human service assistant, an administrative assistant, or an office manager. Similarly, a graduate with a bachelor’s degree in general studies may look for entry-level roles such as:

• Insurance sales agent
• Advertising sales agent
• Public relations specialist
• Human resources specialist
• Editor
• Market research analyst
• Technical writer
• Survey researcher

Note: Educational and experience requirements for all of these professions may vary by employer, role, and state. Some positions may require relevant professional experience, specialized training, certification, or an additional credential.

How A General Studies Degree May Support Further Education

Because a general studies degree enables you to take core courses in a variety of different areas, it can also be a useful stepping stone to a master’s degree or a different career path. For instance, imagine that you discover from your general studies courses that you like to analyze data and love information technology. Later, you could seek a more advanced degree in information technology.

Also, imagine that you learn from your general studies courses that you have a talent for creative writing. You might choose to make a career as a professional writer or use your creative talents to pursue job opportunities in marketing or the fine arts.

Is A General Studies Degree Worth It for Your Goals?

When choosing a degree to gain the knowledge and skills to seek a particular profession, students should choose the college degree best suited to their personal and professional goals. If you have a genuine passion for different industries and want to study more than one academic interest, then this degree could be a perfect fit for you.

The Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies at APU

For students interested in creating their own areas of study, American Public University part of American Public University System (“APU”) offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies. For this degree program, students can choose from a variety of courses that cover topics such as business, management, information technology, natural science, and communication. Other courses in this bachelor's program include areas such as resource management, behavioral sciences, project management, social sciences, space studies, criminal justice, education, intelligence studies, political science, and emergency and disaster management.

For more information, visit APU’s arts and humanities degree program page.

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