General studies geared for young, old

General studies might be a major many have not heard of — perhaps because it’s not open to scores of IU undergraduates.

As a liberal arts degree, general studies can be customized and often done along with different certificates. Students must be at least 21 and have prior college credits or have a high school diploma to apply.

The program was originally created for adults in the community to continue their education, even after many years away from a formal schooling.

General studies is a major offered through Bloomington Continuing Studies for students who are not the traditional college age and who are looking to further their career.

The major is also offered through an online program at the IU School of Continuing Studies.  General studies majors are typically looking for additional opportunities in their work environment, said Ron White, executive director of Bloomington Continuing Studies.  However, there are also undergraduate students who fit the requirements and chose the major.

“In addition to adults, the program works well for undergraduates that do not fit with other majors in the University,” White said.

Because of the ability to customize parts of the general studies major, he said students — both traditional and adult — often go on to graduate school.

Many of the 870 students currently in the general studies program are also working on certificates in their field of interest. White said the certificates allow students to focus their education on their particular job or career goal.

“It provides a strong foundation in liberal arts,” White said. “It is a strong degree for law school.”

However, White said the students pursue numerous graduate degrees, not just law school.

“There are a wide variety of things that students do with the degree,” said Director of Bloomington Continuing Studies Angela Gast. “We always turn it back on them and ask what they want to do.”

Many of the general studies students face challenges in going back to school, White said. Some of these obstacles include the amount of time they have to devote to their education and financial issues while supporting their families and going to school.
Others, White said, feel uncomfortable in the college setting — some find it difficult to be the oldest student.

Often on the first day of classes, he said, some undergraduate students straighten up when older students walk in the room because their classmates might think they are the instructor.

However, White said he hopes adult students feel Bloomington Continuing Studies is a place they can come to for support.

“We really try to be a welcoming presence for the adult students on the IU-Bloomington campus,” he said. “We want to support and encourage students.”