The General Studies Program in the IU School of Liberal Arts is specially designed to fit the degree-seeking needs for returning and nontraditional students seeking a traditional undergraduate degree, full or part time. Located in Indianapolis, the General Studies Program is the only general studies degree program in a thriving, urban campus environment in the State of Indiana. The advantages of a general studies degree are diverse and meaningful to students looking to finish a degree. At IU Indianapolis, students can also maximize transfer credits to make the most of prior learning and build an individualized program around their unique interests and goals.
What General Studies did for me?
“While pursuing a degree in creative technologies, I struggled to commit to one major. I eventually chose to focus on my growing family of six while slowly earning credits. From architectural engineering to computer graphics and new media, creative problem solving was the common thread. I now know that I was created to thrive in diversity, and those courses challenged me in distinct ways. But they didn’t equal a degree. Finally, choosing General Studies was the most innovative solution available. This degree means finishing by faith what began 30-years ago. It broadened my scope and placed me in unfamiliar territory, including Medical Humanities, which is now a passion. This refocus was essential in persevering through late nights, tired days, and moments of overwhelm with a patient husband, four children, and family giving encouragement to my fears and triumphs. All of life’s ups and downs were the backdrop for this journey.”
— Lora McGuire, ’21 B.G.S.
