Program Overview

Introduction to the Online Bachelor of General Studies

The online Bachelor of General Studies degree completion program at Ball State University is designed to bring the classroom to students online, providing flexibility and convenience. This program allows students to work on assignments at their own pace, completing a degree that will significantly impact their career goals.

Program Details

• Delivery: 100% online
• Major Credits: 120
• Rankings: Consistently nationally ranked by U.S. News
• Start Date: Next start date is May 11, 2026

Why a Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) Degree?

• Customize your degree with two minors and extensive elective opportunities.
• Earn the same degree that traditional students earn on campus from a brick-and-mortar institution with nearly a century of history.
• Benefit from Ball State's online bachelor's degrees, which consistently rank among the "Best Online Bachelor's Programs" and "Best Online Bachelor's Programs in Business" according to U.S. News.
• Learn from the same innovative faculty who teach classes on the main Ball State campus.
• Work toward deadlines at your own pace, logging in to class at times that work best for your schedule.
• Have your transcripts from accredited schools accepted, regardless of age, with potential credits counting toward your degree.
• Access many of the same services available to students on campus as a Ball State online student.
• Benefit from Ball State University being fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1925.

Customizing Your Degree

Although earning a general studies degree, students can customize their degree to their career interests by taking two of many online minors, choosing from a wide range of fields such as African American studies, criminal justice and criminology, sociology, and more, all 100% online.

Transfer Credits

Credits earned from accredited colleges and universities may transfer to the online general studies bachelor degree, including minors. Military experience may also be considered for credit.

Employer Tuition Reimbursement

Many online learners who are working full-time may be eligible for employer tuition reimbursement programs, which can help offset the cost of their education.

Affordability and Quality

The Ball State bachelor's degree stands out due to its competitive pricing from a well-respected, accredited university with numerous national rankings and recognitions. Ball State has been named one of the best universities in the Midwest for six consecutive years by The Princeton Review and was recognized as a Military Friendly School by GI Jobs.

Calculating the Cost of a Bachelor of General Studies

Understanding the expenses associated with education is crucial. Ball State encourages students to utilize their cost calculator to gauge anticipated costs and plan for their future. Student success specialists are available to provide assistance.

Grants for College

The Indiana Commission for Higher Education offers college grants for adults returning to college or beginning their educational journey. The Adult Student Grant awards up to $2,000 to help pay for college expenses and is renewable for Indiana residents aged 25 and older enrolled in an undergraduate program.

Meet Our Students

Ball State features stories of students who have successfully pursued their educational goals through the online Bachelor of General Studies program, highlighting their experiences and achievements.

Online Bachelor's of General Studies Course Requirements

The BGS degree requires fulfilling at least 120 credits, all of which can be completed online. For a full list of required courses, students should consult the course catalog. Contacting a program advisor is recommended to start developing a personal plan of study.

Choosing Two Online Minors

As part of the online BGS degree, students are required to choose two minors from the available options.

General Electives

Ball State offers a wide variety of elective courses online that help fulfill the 120 credit requirements for a bachelor of general studies degree. Academic advisors can assist in choosing electives that fine-tune the course plan with career needs and personal interests.

University Core Curriculum

Core curriculum classes are designed to provide the fundamentals of a well-rounded education. All Ball State students earning a bachelor's degree take core courses, which can be discussed with an advisor to choose the best options.

Credits Through Exams

Students may also gain college credit through exams like the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and Ball State departmental exams, or qualify for credits for military service.

Admission Criteria

An application and all required application materials must be received two weeks prior to the start of classes for a given term to be considered for admission. Planning for at least 3-4 weeks for official transcripts to be sent to Ball State is recommended.

State Authorization

Ball State is authorized by the U.S. Department of Education to accept online students from all U.S. states. However, for programs leading to professional licensure, some states may have additional regulations, which can be reviewed on the state authorization website.