Online student with coffee and laptop

General Studies

Mode of Study:
Online
Degree Level:
Undergraduate, Major
Degree Types:
Bachelor of Arts
Department:
School:
School of Arts & Sciences

Design Your Own Path with a General Studies Degree

At Catawba College, we believe in possibilities—and our General Studies program is designed to help you discover yours. This flexible, self-directed major allows you to create a personalized course of study grounded in the liberal arts, giving you the skills and knowledge to succeed in any career path.

Whether you're finishing a degree you previously started or exploring new academic interests, the General Studies program offers a thoughtful blend of structure and freedom. You'll work closely with faculty advisors to build a degree plan that reflects your goals and passions while earning a respected bachelor’s degree.


Catawba Student in Class

Why Choose General Studies at Catawba?

  • Flexibility for Working Adults: Transfer existing credits and take classes on your schedule.
  • Broad, Interdisciplinary Focus: Explore courses in the humanities, social sciences, fine arts, natural sciences, and more.
  • Career-Ready Skills: Develop the ability to analyze data, think critically, and communicate effectively in writing, speech, and digital formats.
  • Personalized Support: Collaborate with dedicated faculty who help you shape your academic and professional future.

Program Structure

  • 5 required core courses (15 credit hours)
  • 18 credit hours of upper-level coursework across multiple disciplines

Graduates of the General Studies program are prepared to solve real-world challenges, contribute meaningfully in diverse professional environments, and take the next step in their educational or career journey.

Program Highlights

  • Scholarships & Aid

    Financial aid to qualified and eligible students is available through the North Carolina Need-Based Scholarship and need-based assistance from Federal and/or State sources.

  • Honor & Business Societies

    Catawba's working adult students have access to Alpha Sigma Lambda honor society and Phi Beta Lambda business society.

  • Networking Opportunities

    Catawba College has various CEOs and speakers throughout the year, tied to networking events where you can meet people in your industry of interest.

Program Details

Program Objective

Program Objective

Catawba's General Studies program provides students with a liberal arts education defined by a broad range of knowledge, intellectual and practical skills, individual and social responsibility, and integration of learning. Pairing a core curriculum of general education courses with foundations, skills, and perspectives of interest to each student creates personalized pathways which meet the diverse needs of adult learners.

Flexibility and Support

Flexibility and Support

The General Studies degree supports full and part-time adult students, providing flexibility to match your schedule and your career goals. You can go to school year-round, take the summer off, or even take a month off during a semester and still be a full-time student for financial aid. As you prepare for your next step, our Office of Career Services can assist you with your resumé to showcase your employment, professional experience, and coursework.

Net Price Calculator

Net Price Calculator

Estimate your share of college costs and how much financial aid you may be eligible to receive

Our calculator is designed to give you an early indication of what type of financial aid you may qualify for if you were attending Catawba College as a first-year, transfer, online, or graduate student.

Contact Us

Office of Catawba Online

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TU
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Th
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Fr
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Location
1st Floor
Hedrick Administration Building