B.A. in General Studies

The B.A. in General Studies program at Elmira College provides a flexible and interdisciplinary approach to undergraduate education. Students can choose from a wide range of courses across multiple disciplines, allowing them to tailor their degree to their individual interests and career goals. With a focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication, this program prepares students for success in a variety of fields.

Additional Information

Students in the B.A. in General Studies program have the opportunity to explore topics such as literature, philosophy, psychology, sociology, and more. The program also offers a range of experiential learning opportunities, including internships, research projects, and study abroad programs. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to pursue careers in fields such as business, education, government, and non-profit organizations.

Discover Personalized Learning at Elmira College

Elmira College is a small, private institution located in the heart of New York's Twin Tiers region. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, students receive personalized attention and support from expert faculty. The college is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community, and offers a range of programs and resources to help students achieve their academic and career goals.

The General Studies major will be available to students who choose not to or cannot fulfill the requirements of a specific major and will serve in such cases as a more practical and viable alternative to the Individualized Major.

For students whose degrees will be conferred in June, the major can be declared no earlier than the Fall Term of the senior year and no later than the beginning of the Spring Term of the senior year. For students who will be graduating at a different time of the year, the Registrar will determine the correct time frame.

A minimum of 36 credit hours is required, twelve or more of which must be at or above the 3000 level. Fifteen credits must be from one discipline or closely related disciplines. In addition, an intensive writing course (a previously designated WRT system) is required. A student earning a B.A. degree must have at least 90 liberal arts and science credits, and a B.S. degree must have at least 60 liberal arts and science credits.

A student interested in declaring and graduating with this major must use the General Studies Major form available in the Office of the Registrar and have an advisor's signature endorsing the choice of primary and the courses.