Program Overview
The Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) degree is a flexible, multidisciplinary program that graduates individuals with advanced knowledge and skills that enhance their success in the modern world and workplace based on their interests and needs. Each candidate will explore and synthesize knowledge from two academic disciplines.
The BGS degree is designed for students who have the equivalent of an associate degree with at least 60 hours of college credit including the State Minimum Core but have not completed a bachelor’s degree. Interested students who have not completed the equivalent of an associate degree may be initially enrolled in the Associate of Arts (AA) degree program in General Education and work with an Academic Advisor to complete the State Minimum Core and at least 60 hours of credit. Assuming all appropriate prerequisites have been met, students enrolled in the AA program also may complete courses in fulfillment of the BGS.
BGS students must complete two academic minors with at least a 2.0 GPA in each minor and an overall 2.0 GPA. Students selecting two business minors must have approval of the Dean of the College of Business. BGS students also must complete General Studies Professional Readiness (GEST 3180) and General Studies Capstone (GEST 4380 [UD UCA Core: Z]). BGS students are required to complete all university requirements, including 120 total hours, 40 upper-division credit hours, and UCA upper-division core requirements.
Program Outline
Courses in General Studies (GEST)
3180 NAVIGATING PROFESSIONAL READINESS: SKILLS FOR PROFESSIONAL GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT Required course for Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) program designed to help students choose their emphasis areas (two minors) as well as prepare students for a professional workplace.
4380 GENERAL STUDIES CAPSTONE An upper-division requirement in the Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) program fulfilling the capstone course requirement in the upper-division UCA Core and, thus, providing an opportunity for students to demonstrate achievement of specific critical inquiry and effective communication learning goals. The course requires students to design and implement a capstone research project that integrates knowledge and skills acquired from two academic minors. Prerequisites: GEST 3180 and senior standing, or instructor permission.[UD UCA Core: Z]
University of Central Arkansas
Overview:
University of Central Arkansas (UCA) is a public university located in Conway, Arkansas. It boasts a rich 115-year tradition of excellence and is committed to providing an innovative and collaborative education within a culture of student support and success.
Services Offered:
UCA offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Advising:
Provides guidance and support for academic planning and course selection.Accessibility Resources and Services:
Offers accommodations and support for students with disabilities.Bear Card:
A multi-purpose card used for access to campus facilities, meal plans, and more.Bookstore:
Provides textbooks, course materials, and merchandise.Campus Safety:
Ensures a safe and secure environment for students, faculty, and staff.Career Services:
Assists students with career exploration, job search, and internship opportunities.Disability Resource Center:
Provides support and accommodations for students with disabilities.Financial Aid:
Offers various financial aid programs and scholarships to help students fund their education.Food Services:
Provides dining options on campus.Housing & Residence Life:
Offers on-campus housing options and residence life programs.Information Technology:
Provides technical support and resources for students.Library:
Offers a vast collection of books, journals, and digital resources.Student Health:
Provides healthcare services to students.Student Organizations:
Offers a wide variety of student organizations for students to join and engage in extracurricular activities.Veterans Services:
Provides support and resources for veteran students.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UCA offers a vibrant campus life with numerous opportunities for students to get involved and make connections. Students can:
Join over 150 Recognized Student Organizations:
Catering to diverse interests and passions.Participate in various events and activities:
From sporting events to cultural performances.Live in on-campus housing:
With various residence halls and living learning communities.Enjoy recreational facilities:
Including a campus recreation center.Volunteer in the community:
Through service-learning opportunities.Key Reasons to Study There:
UCA Commitment:
A groundbreaking program offering a debt-free pathway for tuition and fees for incoming Arkansas freshmen with household income of $100k or less.Small class sizes:
Allowing for personalized attention from faculty.Engaging programs:
Providing hands-on learning experiences and internships.Supportive community:
Fostering a sense of belonging and success.Strong academic reputation:
With a focus on research and experiential learning.Academic Programs:
UCA offers a wide range of academic programs across five colleges:
