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General Studies (A.A.)

  • Location IconBrookings Main Campus
  • Online IconOnline
  • Location IconRapid City

Build your degree for your best tomorrow.

Graduate with a degree that says you are prepared for a job of impact or signals you are ahead of the crowd as you transfer into a bachelor’s degree program. The Associate of Arts degree in general studies provides a foundation of general education courses at the university level supporting bachelor’s degree programs, lifelong learning, leadership, service and careers requiring general education coursework.

Is it for you?

This program will be a good fit if you:

  • Wish to pursue a bachelor’s degree.
  • Like to be challenged intellectually.
  • Want to explore different career paths.
  • Want to study across a variety of subject areas.
  • Are self-motivated.

Career Opportunities

  • Customer service representative
  • Child care specialist
  • Bank teller
  • Sales representative
  • Document control specialist
  • Radiologic technologists

Recent Employers

  • CarQuest Auto Parts
  • Swiftel
  • Self-employment
  • Daktronics
  • Electronic Systems, Inc.

Undecided or still deciding on a major and future career?

If you are uncertain about your major and have questions about career planning, you are not alone. Choosing a major or career can be a very difficult decision. The exploratory studies program may be a good fit if you are unsure of your major and career focus. Entering the university in the exploratory studies program will help you gain confidence and valuable insights on majors and minors available at SDSU and future career choices. 

In addition, FOCUS 2 Career, a self-guided assessment, education and career planning program, will help you reflect on your values, interests, personality traits and skills to provide valuable insight as you explore major and career choices. SDSU students may access FOCUS 2 Career by using their student email and password. After completing FOCUS 2 Career, you may find it helpful to discuss your results with a career coach in the Office of Career Development.