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.

Why a Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) Degree?

• You can customize your degree with two minors and extensive elective opportunities.
• Ball State is not an "online university," but a brick and mortar institution with nearly a century of history, offering the same degree that traditional students earn on campus.
• Ball State's online bachelor's degrees consistently rank among the "Best Online Bachelor's Programs" and "Best Online Bachelor's Programs in Business" according to U.S. News.
• Professors for online classes are the same innovative faculty who teach classes on the main Ball State campus.
• The BGS is offered in an online format that lets students work toward deadlines at their own pace.
• Ball State accepts transcripts from accredited schools, regardless of age, and courses may count toward the degree.
• As a Ball State online student, access is provided to many of the same services available to students on campus.
• Ball State University is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1925.

Customizing Your Degree

Although students earn a general studies degree, they can customize it 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.

Affordability and Quality

The Ball State bachelor's degree stands out due to its competitive pricing from a well-respected, accredited university with many national rankings and recognitions.

Quick Facts

• Next Start Date: May 11, 2026
• Delivery: 100% Online
• Major Credits: 120
• Consistently nationally ranked by U.S. News

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.

Choosing 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 to help students fulfill their 120 credit requirements. Academic advisors can assist in choosing the best electives to fine-tune the course plan with career needs and personal interests.

University Core Curriculum

The core curriculum classes 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 such as the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and Ball State departmental exams, or qualify for credits for military service.

Admission and Application

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. Semester start dates can be found in Ball State's academic calendar.

Students from Other States

Ball State is authorized to accept online students from all U.S. states. However, for programs leading to professional licensure, some states may have additional regulations.

Financial Assistance

The Indiana Commission for Higher Education offers college grants for adults returning to college, including the Adult Student Grant, which 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.