Skip to main content

Image for General Studies (B.G.S.)

General Studies (B.G.S.)

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

Set a foundation for the future you envision.

With flexible times, locations and course options, the general studies program helps you easily move towards your goals. This program offers students the flexibility to go beyond traditional academic boundaries to customize a degree that best fits their interests and career goals. The Bachelor of General Studies program through the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences is designed for adult and returning students who have already completed significant college credit and want to complete a baccalaureate degree. The Bachelor of General Studies offers students the flexibility to select coursework from a variety of focus areas: agriculture/natural resource management, allied health, business, education, engineering, fine arts, humanities, social science, science/mathematics, technology and wellness.

Is it for you?

This program will be a good fit if you:

  • Wish to advance your career.
  • 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

  • Business professional
  • Sales representative
  • Care specialist
  • Entrepreneur
  • Graduate school
  • Radiologic technologists

Recent Employers

  • Brookings Health System
  • Flandreau city government
  • St. Joseph’s Indian School
  • South Dakota Retailers Association
  • Solutions Real Estate

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.