Bachelor of General Studies

Bachelor of General Studies (B.G.S.)

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Study General Studies at UW

The B.G.S. at UW helps students who have accumulated 60 credit hours complete their degree by connecting disciplines. It is also an option for those with complex interests in a variety of areas in the curriculum.

By demonstrating knowledge in the desired focus areas, students can creatively evaluate and solve complex issues.

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This program is currently offered in
the following locations:

Laramie Campus
Online
Hybrid

What is General Studies?

B.G.S. is a program designed to identify students’ knowledge in areas such as agriculture, art, science and more. There are 16 focus areas to choose from, and they are defined by subject. Each consists of 18 credit hours minimum.

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All UW faculty are part of B.G.S. and contribute to students’ learning in different departments within each college.

Our faculty have won teaching awards, led impactful research, published books, and continue to bring relevant real-world experiences to the classroom. With their support, students in the B.G.S. program have access to the resources that will help them complete their degrees and prepare for life beyond school.

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General Studies Program Highlights

Research Opportunities

Depending on the focus area a student selects in the B.G.S. program, there are chances to conduct research alongside faculty who lead in their field. These are great hands-on experiences that help develop learners.

 

In the classroom one-on-one time adds irreplaceable value to the learning experience. At UW our class sizes remain smaller to benefit students and give them opportunities to work closely with each other.

 

There are scholarships and opportunities available to undergraduate students in all programs. Students in certain focus areas may be eligible for awards within their specified field of study.

Scholarships & Financial Aid

There are multiple student organizations tied to each of the colleges that students in the B.G.S. program may join, depending on interest and selected area of focus. Through these groups, there are opportunities to apply classroom learning and connect with practicing professionals.

Student Organizations

What Can You Do with a Bachelor of General Studies?

A variety of career opportunities are available to those with a B.G.S. Their focus area will impact the type of work they may pursue. Our program recognizes that the connection between degree and career is not a straight line. Instead, students are acquiring a diverse range of knowledge and competencies that employers highly value. By studying a broad range of subjects, you will develop critical thinking, communication and problem-solving skills applicable to various professional fields.

  • ANB Bank
  • National Print Group
  • State of Wyoming
  • Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino
  • Black Diamond Digital Imaging
  • and many, many more!

UW’s B.G.S. program gives students a chance to complete their degree in an area that interests them, all while receiving the best resources we have available. Student organizations, research opportunities and more will show students all the places they can explore.

This program helps students build the essential skills needed to succeed and adapt in today’s ever-changing professional world. These skills are developed through six categories, including:

  • Communication
  • Human Culture
  • the Physical & Natural World
  • Quantitative Reasoning
  • the U.S. & Wyoming government
  • First Year Seminar

Yes, you can pursue a graduate degree with a B.G.S. Many graduate programs accept students from diverse academic backgrounds, as long as you meet the specific prerequisites and admission requirements for the program you're applying to.

“This program is a good option for students returning to school to best utilize their earned hours that may be in different academic areas and ultimately help students finish their degree they started many years ago."

- UW Academic Advisor