Best Online Associate in General Studies
Find top-ranked online associate degrees in general studies programs to prepare you for a number of entry-level jobs ranging including customer service, retail management, research assistance, and more.
Key Takeaways
- An associate degree can greatly increase your salary over someone who has a high school diploma alone.
- Many students go on to earn a bachelor’s degree.
- The versatile general studies degree prepares graduates for entry-level jobs such as customer service, retail management, research assistance, and more.
Top 10 Online Associate Degrees in General Studies
- Pace University
- Providence College
- Arkansas State University
- Northern Michigan University
- Golden Gate University
- Andrews University
- Anne Arundel Community College
- Hampton University
- Eastern Kentucky University
- Regent University
- Pace University
- Hampton University
- Andrews University
- Providence College
- Anne Arundel Community College
- Arkansas State University
- Golden Gate University
- Eastern Kentucky University
- Murray State University
- Regent University
- New England College 100%
- Kutztown University of Pennsylvania 96%
- Arkansas Tech University 94%
- University of the Incarnate Word 94%
- Franklin Pierce University 93%
- Millersville University of Pennsylvania 92%
- Andrews University 91%
- Northwest Nazarene University 88%
- Murray State University 84%
- Pace University 83%
- Northern Virginia Community College 28 to 1
- Regent University 21 to 1
- Columbia College 20 to 1
- Kutztown University of Pennsylvania 20 to 1
- Millersville University of Pennsylvania 18 to 1
- Arkansas Tech University 18 to 1
- Northern Michigan University 18 to 1
- Anne Arundel Community College 16 to 1
- Montgomery College 16 to 1
- Murray State University 16 to 1
- Providence College $57,928
- Pace University $50,026
- Franklin Pierce University $43,155
- New England College $41,518
- Albertus Magnus College $37,682
- Northwest Nazarene University $36,298
- University of the Incarnate Word $34,400
- King University $33,784
- Andrews University $32,734
- Hampton University $29,162
- Franklin Pierce University $37,200
- Andrews University $26,580
- Pace University $25,560
- Albertus Magnus College $22,176
- Golden Gate University $19,620
- University of the Incarnate Word $18,900
- Regent University $16,028
- King University $14,181
- New England College $13,678
- Hampton University $13,099
- Albertus Magnus College
- King University
- Wilmington University
- Northern Virginia Community College
- San Diego Christian College
- Millersville University of Pennsylvania
- Northwest Nazarene University
- Kutztown University of Pennsylvania
- Arkansas Tech University
- Columbia College
- San Diego Christian College
- Northwest Nazarene University
- Columbia College
- Kutztown University of Pennsylvania
- Albertus Magnus College
- Arkansas Tech University
- Millersville University of Pennsylvania
- Montgomery College
- Northern Virginia Community College
- Wilmington University
- Regent University 32%
- Providence College 53%
- King University 61%
- Eastern Kentucky University 64%
- Arkansas State University 70%
- Northern Michigan University 71%
- Hampton University 74%
- Albertus Magnus College 80%
- Pace University 83%
- Murray State University 84%
- New England College 7 to 1
- Andrews University 10 to 1
- San Diego Christian College 11 to 1
- King University 11 to 1
- Providence College 11 to 1
- Wilmington University 12 to 1
- Franklin Pierce University 12 to 1
- Hampton University 13 to 1
- Golden Gate University 13 to 1
- University of the Incarnate Word 13 to 1
- Northern Virginia Community College $5,412
- Arkansas Tech University $5,820
- Arkansas State University $6,888
- Kutztown University of Pennsylvania $7,716
- Anne Arundel Community College $7,920
- Montgomery College $8,070
- Murray State University $8,196
- Eastern Kentucky University $9,544
- Millersville University of Pennsylvania $9,570
- Golden Gate University $11,088
- Arkansas Tech University $5,481
- Arkansas State University $6,282
- San Diego Christian College $7,440
- Columbia College $8,826
- Murray State University $9,144
- Wilmington University $9,216
- Millersville University of Pennsylvania $9,288
- Kutztown University of Pennsylvania $9,288
- Eastern Kentucky University $10,008
- Northern Michigan University $10,176
Featured Programs
Frequently Asked Questions About General Studies Degrees
Why get an associate degree?
Associate degrees are a great alternative to a traditional four-year bachelor’s degree. An associate degree can be earned in half the time and can help to advance your career and boost your earning potential.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), earning an associate degree can increase your salary by more than $8000 over someone who has a high school diploma alone.
And the cost of an associate degree is around $3500 per year, while the average tuition for a bachelor’s degree at a public college or university sits at around $9000 per year.
However, if you want to go on to earn a bachelor’s degree, an associate degree can also be a great stepping stone towards earning that next degree.
In fact, many community colleges have transfer agreements with nearby public and state colleges that make the prospect of continuing on towards higher education as painless as possible.
Even better, many regionally accredited colleges now offer degree programs online, ensuring that students receive a high quality education with the convenience of an online program.
Why get an online associate degree in general studies?
Online students earning an associate degree in general studies can help students explore a variety of disciplines and career paths while also working toward a versatile degree.
How long does it take to get an associate degree in general studies?
In about two years, students earning associate degrees in general studies can complete the required 60 credits either online or in person.
If you have your high school diploma and are wondering how to pay for college, check out our handy Guide to Financial Aid in Higher Education.
In fact, we have a number of financial aid resources available to help you navigate towards earning your associate degree:
- A step-by-step guide to applying for financial aid
- A guide to applying for federal grants, which offer the highest level of financial aid to students with the biggest need
- A look at work study programs, which are a unique supplement to federal financial aid.
What kind of courses are required to get an associate degree in general studies?
During their studies, online students will take courses in math, computer science, fine arts, social science, and humanities. Many programs will also require you to earn credits through elective courses in areas like marketing, business, criminal justice, and education, all to the end of gaining a well-rounded educational experience.
What can I do with an associate degree in general studies?
Graduates of general studies degree programs will be prepared for a number of entry-level jobs ranging including customer service, retail management, research assistance, and more. Associate degrees in general studies are also a great starting point for those who will go on to pursue a four-year undergraduate degree in a wide variety of disciplines.
Best Online Associate Degree in General Studies Programs
- #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in New York 2024 #5 11 Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s of Computer Science 2025 #6 Best Online Colleges in New York 2024 #7 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Information Technology 2025
Tuition + fees
$50K
Acceptance
83%
Graduation
61%
Student body
15K
Median SAT/ACT
1210/26
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at Pace University
Cost of Degree: $50,026Expenses: $23,226Starting Salary: $40,926Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
AA in General Studies
Concentrations
- Degree Completion
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
AA in General Studies Degree Completion
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
- #7 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #12 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2025 #1 Best Small Colleges in Rhode Island 2025 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Rhode Island 2025
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- #1 Best Christian Colleges in Rhode Island 2024
- #2 Best Private Colleges in Rhode Island 2024
- #3 Best Colleges in Rhode Island 2024
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- #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Rhode Island 2024
- #2 Best Online Colleges in Rhode Island 2024
- #3 Best Online Master's Programs in Rhode Island 2024
- #3 Best Online Associate in Business Management
- #4 Best Online Bachelor's of Healthcare Administration Degree Programs for 2024
- #4 Best Online Associate in Liberal Arts
- #7 The Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Bachelor's Degrees
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- #19 Best Online Bachelor’s in Liberal Arts and Humanities Degree Programs for 2025
Tuition + fees
$58K
Acceptance
53%
Graduation
86%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
1340/30
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at Providence College
Cost of Degree: $57,928Expenses: $18,982Starting Salary: $44,969Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
AA in Liberal Studies
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
- #3 Best Grad Schools in Arkansas 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #3 Best Public Colleges in Arkansas 2024
Other Rankings
- #3 Best Research Universities in Arkansas 2024
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Arkansas
- #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Arkansas
- #2 Best Online Colleges in Arkansas 2024
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Arkansas 2024
- #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in Arkansas 2025
- #3 Top 20 Most Affordable Online MBA Degree Programs Ranked 2025
- #6 Best Online Associate in Emergency Management
- #7 Best Online MBA in Supply Chain Management Ranked for Students in 2024
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- #8 Best Online Bachelor’s of Digital Media for 2025
- #12 Best Online Bachelor's in Construction Management Degree Programs
- #13 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management 2025
- #17 Best Online Master's in Sports Management 2025
- #18 Best Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
- #20 Best Online MBAs in Finance 2025
- #9 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
70%
Graduation
53%
Student body
18K
Median SAT/ACT
1090/22
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at Arkansas State University
Cost of Degree: $7,456Expenses: $17,097Starting Salary: $18,736Salary after 4 years: $33,646Cost Recoup Time: 8 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
AGS in General Studies
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2024 #8 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024 #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Construction Management Degree Programs #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Michigan 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
71%
Graduation
53%
Student body
8K
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at Northern Michigan University
Cost of Degree: $12,948Expenses: $14,784Starting Salary: $20,374Salary after 4 years: $36,588Cost Recoup Time: 8 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
AA in General Studies
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
AS in General Studies
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
- #10 Best Small Colleges in California 2025 #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in California 2025 #2 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs #3 Best Online MBA Programs in California
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- #4 Best Online Master's in Organizational Psychology 2025
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- #9 Best Online Colleges in California 2024
- #9 Best Online MBA in Supply Chain Management Ranked for Students in 2024
- #13 Best Online Master’s in Finance
- #14 Best Online Master's in Project Management 2025
- #14 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
- #16 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting 2025
- #16 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology 2025
- #17 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2025
- #18 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
- #19 Best Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
- #19 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
- #21 Best Online MBAs in Finance 2025
- #22 Best Online Master's Degrees in Accounting 2025
Tuition + fees
$11K
Student body
4K
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at Golden Gate University
Cost of Degree: $11,343Starting Salary: $50,422Online Degrees
AA in General Studies
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
- #13 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2025 #6 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2024 #6 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2024
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- #6 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2024
- #8 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2025
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- #1 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry
- #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in Michigan 2024
- #4 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs)
- #5 Best Online Master’s in Biblical Studies 2025
- #5 Best Online Colleges in Michigan 2024
- #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan
- #6 Best Online Associate in Business Administration
- #8 Best Online Master's Programs in Michigan 2025
- #10 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration
- #12 Best Online Bachelor's in Public Health Degree Programs for Students
- #14 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
- #25 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
Tuition + fees
$33K
Acceptance
91%
Graduation
71%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1225/24
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at Andrews University
Cost of Degree: $32,734Expenses: $11,674Starting Salary: $29,285Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
AA in General Studies
- Required Credits: 62
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
AS in General Studies
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #3 50 Best Community Colleges for Future Success in 2025 #1 Best Community Colleges in Maryland 2025 #1 Best Online Associate in Gender Studies #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Maryland 2025
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- #3 Best Online Associate in Computer Science Degree Programs
- #6 Best Online Associate in Cybersecurity
- #7 Best Online Associate in English
- #9 Best Online Associate in Human Resources
- #10 Best Online Associate in Small Business Management
- #10 Best Online Associate in Finance
- #10 Best Online Associate in Business Management
- #11 Best Online Associate in Communications
- #11 Best Online Associate in Psychology
- #18 Best Online Associate in Marketing
Tuition + fees
$9K
Graduation
27%
Student body
15K
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at Anne Arundel Community College
Cost of Degree: $9,230Starting Salary: $21,603Salary after 4 years: $38,794Online Degrees
AA in Liberal Studies
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
- #3 Best Online HBCU Doctoral Programs 2025 #4 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #8 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #3 Best Private Colleges in Virginia 2025
Other Rankings
- #4 Best Small Colleges in Virginia 2025
- #7 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2025
- #7 Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2024
- #1 Best Online Associate in Biblical Studies
- #1 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2025
- #2 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates)
- #2 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in Virginia 2024
- #2 Best Online Associate in Business Management
- #2 Best Online Associate in Business Administration
- #3 Most Affordable Online PhDs in Psychology Ranked for 2025
- #3 Top 20 Most Affordable Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Programs
- #4 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
- #5 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs)
- #5 Best HBCU Online Programs
- #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2025
- #6 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Business Administration Doctorates 2025
- #7 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024
- #8 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024
- #9 How To Get an Online Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies
- #11 Best Online Master's in Sports Management 2025
- #12 Best Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
- #12 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
- #16 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
- #25 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
- #5 10 Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
- #16 Best Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
Tuition + fees
$29K
Acceptance
74%
Graduation
46%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
1030/22
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at Hampton University
Cost of Degree: $29,162Expenses: $16,886Starting Salary: $30,694Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
AA in General Studies
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
- #12 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Kentucky 2024 #4 Best Public Colleges in Kentucky 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Kentucky 2025
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- #5 Best Colleges in Kentucky 2024
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- #3 Best Online Associate in Emergency Management
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- #4 Best Online Colleges in Kentucky 2024
- #4 Best Online Associate in Paralegal Studies
- #5 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Forensic Psychology Programs
- #6 Best Online Master's in Organizational Psychology 2025
- #7 Best Online Master's in Behavior Analysis Degree Programs
- #7 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Psychology Programs
- #10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Child Development Degree Programs for 2024
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- #15 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management 2025
- #15 Best Online Bachelor's in Criminal Justice
- #17 Best Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs for 2024
- #3 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs 2025
- #7 Top 20 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's in Counseling
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
64%
Graduation
49%
Student body
17K
Median SAT/ACT
1062/20
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at Eastern Kentucky University
Cost of Degree: $9,844Expenses: $13,160Starting Salary: $20,118Salary after 4 years: $36,128Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
Associate in General Studies
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #13 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #3 Best Christian Colleges in Virginia 2024 #5 Best Private Colleges in Virginia 2025 #9 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2025
Other Rankings
- #2 Best Online Bachelor’s of Counseling Degree Programs for 2025
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Virginia
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's of Theology Degree Programs in 2025
- #2 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in the District Of Columbia
- #3 Best Online Master's in Organizational Psychology 2025
- #3 How To Get an Online Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies
- #3 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #3 Best Online Associate in History Degrees
- #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Virginia 2024
- #3 Best Online Bachelor’s of Graphic Arts Degree Programs for 2025
- #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Music Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #4 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2025
- #4 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2025
- #4 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Psychology Programs
- #5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies
- #5 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates)
- #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Virginia
- #5 Best Online Master's in Theology 2025
- #5 Most Affordable Online PhDs in Psychology Ranked for 2025
- #5 Best Online Associate in Psychology
- #6 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2025
- #6 Best Online Master’s in Biblical Studies 2025
- #6 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Information Technology
- #7 Best Online Bachelor’s of Digital Media for 2025
- #7 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
- #8 Fastest Online Associate Degrees Ranked for 2024
- #8 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship Ranked for Students in 2024
- #8 Best Online Master’s in Human Services
- #8 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs
- #9 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs)
- #9 Best Online Bachelor's in Sports Management Degree Programs for 2025
- #9 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #9 Top 20 Easiest Online Degrees from Accredited Schools in 2024
- #9 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024
- #10 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity 2025
- #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2025
- #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs
- #11 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management 2025
- #12 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs) 2025
- #12 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2025
- #13 Best Online Bachelor’s of History Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
- #14 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024
- #15 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
- #16 Most Affordable Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
- #17 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
- #19 Best Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs for 2024
- #24 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
- #8 Top 20 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's in Counseling
- #10 20 Fastest Accelerated Online MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #13 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024
Tuition + fees
$20K
Acceptance
32%
Graduation
55%
Student body
14K
Median SAT/ACT
1140/22
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at Regent University
Cost of Degree: $19,680Expenses: $11,182Starting Salary: $27,937Cost Recoup Time: 8 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
AA in General Studies
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 3 years
- Format: Online
- #5 Best Small Colleges in New Hampshire 2024 #5 Best Private Colleges in New Hampshire 2024 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New Hampshire 2025 #8 Best Colleges in New Hampshire 2024
Other Rankings
- #1 Best Online Colleges in New Hampshire 2024
- #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in New Hampshire 2025
- #5 Best Online Associate Degree Programs That Can Be Completed in 1 Year
- #5 Best Online MBA Programs in New Hampshire
- #6 Best Online Master's Programs in New Hampshire 2025
- #15 Best Online Bachelor's in Sports Management Degree Programs for 2025
- #17 Best Online Associate in Business Administration
- #20 Best Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs for 2024
- #23 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice
- #23 Best Online Bachelor's of Healthcare Administration Degree Programs for 2024
Tuition + fees
$43K
Acceptance
93%
Graduation
52%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1095/20
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at Franklin Pierce University
Cost of Degree: $43,155Expenses: $18,800Starting Salary: $27,570Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
AS in General Studies
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
- #24 50 Best Community Colleges for Future Success in 2025 #2 Best Community Colleges in Maryland 2025 #2 Best Online Associate in Communications #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in Maryland 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$10K
Graduation
28%
Student body
24K
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at Montgomery College
Cost of Degree: $10,254Starting Salary: $23,548Salary after 4 years: $42,287Online Degrees
AA in General Studies
Concentrations
- Technology
- Communication And Languages
- Humanities
- Arts
- Social Sciences
- Administration And Health
- Engineering And Math
- Science
- Technology
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New Hampshire 2025 #3 Best Small Colleges in New Hampshire 2024 #4 Best Private Colleges in New Hampshire 2024 #5 Best Colleges in New Hampshire 2024
Other Rankings
- #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in New Hampshire 2025
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Programs in New Hampshire
- #3 Best Online MBA Programs in New Hampshire
- #3 Best Online Colleges in New Hampshire 2024
- #3 Best Online Associate in Sociology
- #4 Best Online Master's Programs in New Hampshire 2025
- #7 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs
- #8 Best Online Associate in Accounting
- #10 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Forensic Psychology Programs
- #13 Best Online Associate in Psychology
- #13 Best Online Associate in Liberal Arts
- #15 Best Online Associate in Emergency Management
- #15 Best Online Associate in Business Administration
- #17 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity 2025
- #20 Best Online Bachelor's of Healthcare Administration Degree Programs for 2024
- #21 Best Online Master's in Project Management 2025
- #22 Best Online Bachelor's in Sociology Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
- #23 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting 2025
- #23 Best Online Associate in Human Services
Tuition + fees
$42K
Acceptance
100%
Graduation
31%
Student body
5K
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at New England College
Cost of Degree: $27,054Expenses: $19,802Starting Salary: $27,386Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
AA in Liberal Studies
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Kentucky 2024 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Kentucky 2025 #6 Best Public Colleges in Kentucky 2024 #7 Best Colleges in Kentucky 2024
Other Rankings
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Kentucky
- #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Kentucky 2024
- #3 Top 10 Most Affordable English PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
- #3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Agribusiness and Agriculture Degree Programs
- #4 Best Online MBA in Healthcare Management Ranked for Students in 2024
- #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Kentucky
- #5 Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #6 Best Online Master's Programs in Kentucky 2024
- #6 Best Online Colleges in Kentucky 2024
- #7 Best Online Bachelor's in Network Administration Degree Programs for 2024
- #11 Best Online Master's in English
- #12 Best Online Master's in Economics 2025
- #12 Top 20 Most Affordable Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Programs
- #13 Best Online Bachelor’s of Human Services Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #14 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
- #18 Best Online Associate in Business Administration
- #18 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration
- #23 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
84%
Graduation
58%
Student body
11K
Median SAT/ACT
1077/22
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at Murray State University
Cost of Degree: $9,432Expenses: $15,655Starting Salary: $21,654Salary after 4 years: $38,886Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
AA in General Studies
- Required Credits: 39-43
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #15 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #9 Best Private Colleges in Texas 2024 #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Texas 2024 #1 Best Online Associate in Health Science Degree Programs
Other Rankings
- #8 Best Online Master's in Organizational Psychology 2025
- #8 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Administration Degree Programs for 2025
- #9 Best Online Doctorate in Business Administration Degree Programs
- #10 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Business Administration Doctorates 2025
- #10 Best Online MBA Programs in Texas
- #11 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration
- #15 Best Online Bachelor’s of Health Science Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
- #17 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024
- #20 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2024
Tuition + fees
$34K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
53%
Student body
9K
Median SAT/ACT
1021/19
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at University of the Incarnate Word
Cost of Degree: $34,400Expenses: $16,622Starting Salary: $32,165Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
AA in General Studies
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
- #8 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2025 #12 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #6 Best Online Associate in Human Services #9 Best Online Associate Degrees in Missouri 2024
Other Rankings
- #11 Best Online MBA Programs in Missouri
- #11 Best Online Colleges in Missouri 2024
- #12 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Missouri
- #17 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Administration Degree Programs for 2025
- #23 Best Online Bachelor’s of Human Services Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #24 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
Tuition + fees
$24K
Graduation
43%
Student body
9K
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at Columbia College
Cost of Degree: $12,140Expenses: $13,982Starting Salary: $26,344Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
Associate in General Studies
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #7 Best Grad Schools in Arkansas 2024
Other Rankings
- #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Arkansas 2025
- #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Arkansas
- #4 Best Online Master's Programs in Arkansas 2024
- #5 Best Online Colleges in Arkansas 2024
- #5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Agribusiness and Agriculture Degree Programs
- #13 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
- #23 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management 2025
- #25 Best Online Bachelor’s of History Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
49%
Student body
11K
Median SAT/ACT
1085/20
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at Arkansas Tech University
Cost of Degree: $8,071Expenses: $14,130Starting Salary: $19,760Salary after 4 years: $35,484Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
AS in General Studies
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
- #3 Best Online Master's in Biology #13 Best Online Master's in Art Education and Art Administration #15 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Social Work PhDs (Doctorates) #17 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
96%
Graduation
56%
Student body
9K
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at Kutztown University of Pennsylvania
Cost of Degree: $11,122Expenses: $17,646Starting Salary: $22,473Salary after 4 years: $40,357Cost Recoup Time: 8 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
AA in General Studies
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #2 Best Christian Colleges in Idaho 2024 #2 Best Small Colleges in Idaho 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Idaho 2025 #3 Best Private Colleges in Idaho 2024
Other Rankings
- #4 Best Grad Schools in Idaho 2024
- #6 Best Colleges in Idaho 2024
- #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in Idaho 2025
- #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Montana
- #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Idaho
- #4 Best Online Master's Programs in Idaho 2024
- #5 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry
- #5 Best Online Colleges in Idaho 2024
- #8 Best Online Associate in Liberal Arts
- #12 Best Online Associate in Education
- #20 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2025
Tuition + fees
$36K
Acceptance
88%
Graduation
58%
Student body
9K
Median SAT/ACT
1120/23
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at Northwest Nazarene University
Cost of Degree: $36,298Expenses: $15,174Starting Salary: $28,366Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
AA in Liberal Studies
- Required Credits: 63
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
92%
Graduation
57%
Student body
8K
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at Millersville University of Pennsylvania
Cost of Degree: $12,262Expenses: $17,100Starting Salary: $23,548Salary after 4 years: $42,287Cost Recoup Time: 8 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
AA in Liberal Studies
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Human Development Degree Programs for 2024 #16 Best Online Associate Degrees in California 2025 #21 Best Online Colleges in California 2024
Tuition + fees
$26K
Graduation
35%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at San Diego Christian College
Cost of Degree: $26,300Expenses: $17,000Starting Salary: $26,038Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
AA in Liberal Studies
- Required Credits: 64
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
- #19 50 Best Community Colleges for Future Success in 2025 #1 Best Community Colleges in Virginia 2024 #4 Best Online Associate Degrees in Virginia 2024 #4 Best Online Associate in English
Other Rankings
- #5 Best Online Associate in Communications
- #7 Best Online Associate in Health Science Degree Programs
- #7 Best Online Associate in Mathematics 2025
- #8 Best Online Associate in Computer Science Degree Programs
- #11 Best Online Associate in Accounting
- #11 Best Online Associate in Cybersecurity
- #12 Best Online Associate in General Science
- #12 Best Online Associate in Information Technology
- #23 Best Online Associate in Business Management
Tuition + fees
$6K
Graduation
35%
Student body
69K
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at Northern Virginia Community College
Cost of Degree: $5,565Starting Salary: $24,163Salary after 4 years: $43,390Online Degrees
AS in General Studies
Concentrations
- Health Science
- Required Credits: 60-62
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
- #1 Best Private Colleges in Delaware 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in Delaware 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Delaware 2024 #3 Best Research Universities in Delaware 2024
Other Rankings
- #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Delaware 2024
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Delaware
- #1 Best Online Master’s in Human Services
- #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Delaware
- #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in Delaware 2025
- #2 Best Online Doctorate in Business Administration Degree Programs
- #2 Best Online Master's in Web Design
- #3 Best Online Colleges in Delaware 2024
- #3 Best Online Master's Programs in Delaware 2024
- #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Animation Illustration 2025
- #4 Best Online Associate in Finance
- #4 Best Online MBAs in Sustainability
- #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Accounting Programs 2025
- #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Network Administration Degree Programs for 2024
- #6 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Psychology Programs
- #6 Best Online Degrees for a Career in Teaching Ranked 2024
- #8 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration
- #8 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
- #9 Best Online MBA in Healthcare Management Ranked for Students in 2024
- #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Graphic Arts Degree Programs for 2025
- #13 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs
- #16 Best Online Bachelor’s of Elementary Education Degree Programs for 2025
- #17 Best Online Bachelor's in Sports Management Degree Programs for 2025
- #18 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2025
- #19 Best Online Bachelor’s of Health Science Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
- #19 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Business Administration Doctorates 2025
- #20 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2025
- #23 Best Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs for 2024
Tuition + fees
$12K
Graduation
20%
Student body
19K
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at Wilmington University
Cost of Degree: $12,030Starting Salary: $28,550Online Degrees
AA in Liberal Studies
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
- #5 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2025 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2025 #9 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024
Other Rankings
- #4 Best Online Associate Degrees in Tennessee 2024
- #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee
- #9 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
- #11 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024
- #13 Best Online Bachelor's of Healthcare Administration Degree Programs for 2024
- #13 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024
- #21 Best Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
- #24 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN
Tuition + fees
$34K
Acceptance
61%
Graduation
46%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at King University
Cost of Degree: $33,784Expenses: $15,026Starting Salary: $30,817Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
AA in General Studies
Concentrations
- General Studies
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 20 months
- Format: Online
- #7 Best Online Colleges for Students Who Work Part-Time #22 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #3 Best Christian Colleges in Connecticut 2024 #10 Best Small Colleges in Connecticut 2024
Other Rankings
- #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Connecticut 2024
- #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Connecticut
- #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Connecticut
- #4 Best Online Colleges in Connecticut 2024
- #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Philosophy Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #11 Best Online Master's Programs in Connecticut 2024
- #12 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024
- #16 Best Online Associate in Business Management
- #18 Best Online Master’s in Human Services
- #25 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
- #9 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs 2025
Tuition + fees
$38K
Acceptance
80%
Graduation
50%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for General Studies degree at Albertus Magnus College
Cost of Degree: $37,682Expenses: $23,000Starting Salary: $34,309Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
AA in Liberal Studies
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Career Outlook for Students with General Studies Degree
Go to Degree Finder toolDigital Communication And Media/Multimedia
Degree Level: Associate's
- Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
- Avg. Cost of Degree*: $4,924
- Avg. Expenses*: $14,588
- Avg. Starting Salary*: $18,793
- Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $33,747
- Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 7 years
- Job Growth: 4.36%
- Number of Jobs: 1,405,600
- * denotes ‘annually’
- ** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’
Career Salaries
Career | Job Growth | Avg. Salary |
---|---|---|
Managers, All Other | 3.35% | $106,040 |
Communications Teachers, Postsecondary | 3.57% | $72,568 |
Web and Digital Interface Designers | 15.18% | $71,800 |
Producers and Directors | 6.67% | $68,074 |
Media and Communication Workers, All Other | 4.26% | $58,366 |
Average Career Salaries
Bottom 10% | Median | Top 10% |
---|---|---|
$40,705 | $66,515 | $115,152 |
Promising Job Markets
State | Cost of Living | Avg. Salary |
---|---|---|
#2 New York | 5% higher than average | $91,217 |
#3 California | 26% higher than average | $108,831 |
#4 Virginia | 5% higher than average | $76,646 |
#5 Texas | 10% higher than average | $70,992 |
#6 New Jersey | 13% higher than average | $88,263 |
Top Industries
Industry | Avg. Salary |
---|---|
Managers, All Other | $106,040 |
Communications Teachers, Postsecondary | $72,568 |
Web and Digital Interface Designers | $71,800 |
Online Degree Frequently Asked Questions
If this is your first time taking an online course, the experience may require a time of adjustment. Although you’ll typically learn the same material and take the same exams as your on-campus peers, going online will require greater independence and responsibility than going in person. You’ll be accountable for your own time management, for harnessing the online educational technology that you’ll need to use, and for completing the course requirements, such as listening to lectures, learning lessons, reading texts, and handing in assignments. This means you’ll need to create a suitable workspace for yourself, maintain a realistic schedule, and take the initiative in building relationships with your instructors and classmates. With online college, your goal is to find a balance between independence and engagement.
No. The only part of online education that’s easier than campus-based education is ease of access: all you need is a computer and an internet connection for online education. But even this seeming advantage of online education can be misleading: what’s easier, studying online with your computer and internet connection from your home where you need to cook, clean, pay rent, and maintain a job? Or studying on campus in a dorm where all your living needs are handled by the school, and college staff are there to help you every step of the way?
If you take the commute to campus out of the equation, campus-based education is easier. All the support structures available on campus for students, especially with real people to help you in person, are not there online. The demands on you as an online student will largely be the same as for your campus-based counterpart, but without the same helps.
In general, your online courses will present the same material and test you in the same way as traditional in-person courses. In many cases, you’ll even have the same instructors as your on-campus counterparts. In fact, if you are adjusting to the experience of independent learning with remote educational technology for the first time, online college may be considerably more challenging than campus-based college. For a few insights on how to manage this new online experience, check out our 10 Tips for Adjusting to School Online.
Accreditation is especially important when it comes to online college. This is because the online education landscape is a mix of highly-reputable non-profit institutions on the one end and less-than-reputable for-profit institutions on the other end. Accreditation gives you the power to identify the more reputable actors in online education. Accreditation is a stamp of approval from an independent accrediting agency indicating that a college or university is meeting standards of quality and credibility. School-wide accreditation falls into two major categories: regional and national accreditation. Regional accreditors generally hold jurisdiction only over schools in the states comprising their region, whereas national accreditors hold jurisdiction over schools in all states. Regional accreditation is widely regarded as a more rigorous standard of quality and credibility than national accreditation.
Attending a college or university that is not regionally accredited could limit your opportunities. For students seeking an online education, we strongly recommend that they opt for regionally accredited schools. Regional accreditation ensures eligibility for federal loans and grants, ensures your college credits can be transferred between schools, and ensures that your degree credits can be accepted if you wish to earn an advanced degree. For more on this important topic, check out our What is Accreditation and Why Does It Matter? College & University Accreditation Guide.
As long as your online college degree is regionally accredited (see the previous point), you should have little difficulty transferring most of your credits or credentials to another regionally accredited undergraduate school. Every school carries its own standards and procedures for granting a transfer of credits. In many cases, you will encounter some bureaucratic haggling in which some of your credits will be transferred and others may be refused. However, provided that you have attended an online school with recognized regional accreditation, you should be in good shape in transferring your credits earned online.
In most cases, as long you graduate from a well-regarded, regionally-accredited online college, prospective employers won’t look sideways at your degree. In fact, unless you attend an exclusively online college or university, there will likely be no specific indicator on your degree, transcript, or resumé differentiating your school from its brick-and-mortar counterpart. This means that your employer will likely only differentiate between an online and in-person degree if you mention this distinction.
Some employers may express the concern that because you did your degree online, you may need to transition from an online education experience to in-person workplace experience. But in an age of Covid, that concern seems much diminished. The fact is that much employment these days is remote. And collaboration increasingly happens online over Zoom. Many employers will therefore view your online degree as evidence of valuable 21st century professional skills such as independence, self-motivation, time management, and tech savvy.
If you are a student who thrives on the dynamic energy of in-person discussion, who requires the physical surroundings of a classroom to feel engaged, or who considers the social aspects of education to be of equal importance to the actual content of your courses, online education will be less than ideal for you (though depending on your circumstances, it may also be the only viable option).
While there is much in traditional campus-based education that can be substituted or simulated through the online medium, some students may find that there is nothing that can replace the conversation, collaboration, and motivation that occur in an actual in-person classroom setting. As you transition to online education, one of the biggest challenges you will likely face in getting the most out of your online classes is overcoming this difference between “real reality” and “virtual reality.” Fortunately, we’ve got some great Tips for Online Education Beginners.
The advantages of online classes are many. Above all, online courses give you the freedom and flexibility to attend class from anywhere that works for you, whether you’re at home, in a coffee shop, or in a quiet conference room at work. In many cases, you’ll also enjoy the convenience of asynchronous learning opportunities-educational experiences that you can complete at your own pace and on your own schedule. This may include pre-taped lectures, ongoing chat-board discussions, and 24/7 access to digital materials. And of course, just as there are some learners who prefer the energy of a live classroom, there are those who learn best when working in their own personal space, free from distractions. If this sounds like you, you might find the solitude of online learning to be a major advantage.
Resources for Online College-Bound Students
Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.