The Bachelor of General Studies Degree (BGS) is an individualized, flexible adult degree program offered through the School of Continuing Education at Eastern. Individuals choose a Major concentration of 30 credits from an undergraduate major.  Available to students who are 25 years of age or older at the time of entrance to the University, it is especially appropriate for those you have gained significant learning through their work/life experience and who seek career advancement.

Each student completes a learning contract with a Continuing Education advisor.  This individualized contract outlines the student’s proposed plan of study and ensures that all degree and University requirements will be met.

Degree requirements may be met by a combination of coursework at Eastern, transfer credits from regionally accredited colleges or universities, CLEP exams or DSST tests, institutionally-approved ACE recommendations for military training and experience, as well as Eastern’s Credit for Lifelong Learning program.

EASTERN DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

1. Eastern’s  LIBERAL ARTS CORE (LAC) REQUIREMENTS                                                   up to 46 credits

Note:  LAC Tier I requirement is waived for those transferring a minimum of 27 credits of liberal arts and sciences course work that includes a math course above College Algebra and English composition.

At least two Tier II LAC courses and the Tier III LAC course must be taken through Eastern.

2. Your ACADEMIC MAJOR OR MAJOR/MINOR CONCENTRATIONS for the BGS degree      up to 45 credits. See here for available options or design your own BGS degree or Individualized Major. Call the School of Continuing Education for information.

Note:  A minimum of 15-24 credits of your Major or Major Concentration must be earned through Eastern and 15 credits must be 300-level or higher.

One of the two required BGS concentrations must be from a subject in the School of Arts and Sciences at Eastern.

3. ELECTIVES                                                                                                                                       as needed
Utilize previous credits here – no matter how long ago you took them, or apply for Credit for Lifelong Learning.

                                                                                                                                   Degree  Minimum 120 credits

Note:  Within the total 120 credits required for the bachelor’s degree, a minimum of 30 credits must be earned through Eastern coursework.  Students must complete 30 credits of coursework numbered 200-level or higher and 30 credits must be 300-level or higher. 

Students who transfer fewer than 75 credits must also meet Eastern’s University Writing Competency Requirements.