Location
Online
Curriculum
120 credit hours
Program Length
4 years
Accreditation
Regionally Accredited by SACSCOC
Finish Your Degree with a BS in General Studies
The Bachelor of Science in General Studies program at Columbia International University opens doors to a world of possibilities. Designed for the transfer student, its interdisciplinary approach allows you to utilize the course work you have already completed to equip you with a diverse skill set and prepare you for a wide range of career paths.
One of the key benefits of the Bachelor of Science in General Studies program is its flexibility. You have the freedom to design a course of study that aligns with your specific interests and career aspirations. Whether you have a wide range of academic interests, wish to combine disciplines or are seeking a well-rounded education, this program allows you to create a personalized learning path.
The Bachelor of Science in General Studies program at Columbia International University empowers you to become a prepared, intellectually curious and adaptable professional. Our program provides a solid foundation for your future endeavors. Join us and embark on a transformative educational experience that broadens your horizons and equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s ever-changing world.
Why Choose Columbia International University?
The Bachelor of Science in General Studies program at Columbia International University offers a unique educational experience tailored to the transfer student who seeks a comprehensive and versatile degree.
You may combine study from a variety of academic, professional or technical fields to fit your individual needs and professional goals. The General Studies program is well-suited for the non-traditional, mature, undergraduate student who needs flexibility in program design.
One of the key benefits of the Bachelor of Science in General Studies program is its flexibility. You can tailor your degree to match your unique interests, passions and career aspirations. This cross-discipline approach allows you to develop a well-rounded perspective and acquire the specific skill you desire to match your career aspirations.
The Bachelor of Science in General Studies program prepares you for a variety of career paths. The breadth of knowledge and skills acquired through this program provides a solid foundation for success in fields such as business, communication, education, ministry, government and more. Additionally, the program offers a pathway for further academic pursuits, including graduate studies in various disciplines.
By enrolling in the Bachelor of Science in General Studies program, you embark on a transformative educational journey that fosters intellectual growth, adaptability and critical thinking.
Discover the freedom to shape your education according to your passions and interests. Embrace the interdisciplinary nature of the Bachelor of Science in General Studies program at Columbia International University and develop the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate a complex and interconnected world.
Overall Benefits of getting this degree
Columbia International University stands out as the ideal choice for pursuing a Bachelor of Science in General Studies. Here are compelling reasons why you should choose CIU for your educational journey:
- Academic Excellence: CIU is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and rigorous standards of education. CIU grads have found success as leaders in a wide variety of careers. As you pursue your Bachelor of Science in General Studies, you will learn from distinguished faculty who are experts in their respective fields. They will guide you through a thought-provoking curriculum, challenge your intellect and inspire your personal and professional growth.
- Build on the Your Accomplishments: Designed with the transfer student in mind, CIU’s General Science program will work with you to tailor a unique educational path that maximizes what you have already accomplished and provides what you need to be prepared to achieve your career goals. The Bachelor of Science in General Studies program allows you to customize your learning experience and build a well-rounded skill set while exploring areas that align with your passions and future aspirations.
- Interdisciplinary Approach: Our Bachelor of Science in General Studies integrates knowledge from various fields, so you can develop a holistic understanding of the world and enhance your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. This interdisciplinary perspective is highly valued in today’s complex and interconnected global landscape.
- Supportive Learning Environment: At CIU, we prioritize the success and well-being of our students. You will experience a supportive learning environment where faculty and staff are dedicated to your academic and personal development.
- Christian Values: CIU is a Christian institution that integrates faith into all aspects of education. Our commitment to Christian values ensures an environment that promotes integrity, ethical decision-making and service to others. As you pursue your Bachelor of Science in General Studies, you will have opportunities to explore the integration of faith and learning, develop a deeper understanding of your purpose and contribute meaningfully to society.
By choosing Columbia International University for your Bachelor of Science in General Studies, you embark on a transformative educational journey that combines academic excellence, customization, interdisciplinary learning and a supportive community. Join us and embrace the opportunities to explore, discover and cultivate your passions, all within a nurturing Christian environment that prepares you for a purposeful and impactful future.
What Will I Study?
Here are courses you can expect to take:
- BIB 1116 Old Testament Survey
In this course, you will become familiar with the basic contents of each book of the Old Testament and the broad historical framework of Old Testament events. You will pay special attention to key passages and prominent themes of the Old Testament. You will read the Old Testament with a view to using it for spiritual formation and discipleship.
3.00 credit hours
- BIB 1120 New Testament Survey
This course is an overview of the books of the New Testament and the historical circumstances surrounding these writings. You will focus on the background, content, message, and personal application of each book in the New Testament. You will also examine the process by which the New Testament canon was formed and the New Testament was transmitted through the history of the Church.
3.00 credit hours
- BIB 4310 Progress of Redemption
In this course, you will explore God's plan of redemption as it progressively unfolds in the Bible. You will trace the basic historical revelation in the Old and New Testaments to see what God is doing and by what method. You will consider the spoken revelations as you observe the progress of doctrine.
3.00 credit hours
- ICS 1210 Discovering the Mission of God
This course is designed to help you develop world-Christian characteristics. You will explore the Christian's heritage in the history of the church and missions, begin to develop a scriptural perspective on the purpose of the gospel in confronting ideologies, religions and spiritual needs of the world, and discuss current strategies for identifying and reaching the lost.
3.00 credit hours
- MSD 1110 Encountering Spiritual Formation
This course is designed to introduce the student to the foundational principles of spiritual formation for effective life, ministry, and vocation. The process of the student's spiritual formation includes their relationship with God, their biblical self-image, their relationship with the Body of Christ, their personal relationships, and their relationship with the world. Students are invited into a multiple-year journey of encountering spiritual formation in community. The goal of this course is to help students build a foundation for continued spiritual formation at and beyond their time at CIU.
3.00 credit hours
- THE 3310 Christian Theology
This course provides a study of the theological truths of the Bible, during which you will focus on the basic doctrines necessary for a Christian worldview: Scripture, God, Christ, Holy Spirit, sin and salvation, church, and future events. You will examine the doctrinal teaching of the Bible, supplemented with insights from the theological reflections of the church throughout its history and from contemporary theological discussions.
3.00 credit hours
- COM 1010 Communication for Leaders
This course provides you a general overview of basic communication skills and strategies that typically accompany proven leaders. Topics covered include listening, evaluating an audience, speaking in public settings, facilitating small work groups, and business writing. The course is a blend of theory and practice. You will have the opportunity to engage and practice leadership communication techniques firsthand. (3) Limited to online program students.
3.00 credit hours
- ENG 1010 College Writing and Research 1
This course overviews the tasks and skills involved in writing formal essays. You will increase your writing proficiency step-by-step, accomplishing smaller goals that lead to the achievement of larger goals. You will thoroughly cover the mechanics of good English grammar with the goal of identifying your strengths and weaknesses. As a summative exercise, you will examine biblical examples of various types of writing. (3) Limited to online program students.
3.00 credit hours
- ENG 1020 College Writing and Research 2
This course builds upon the knowledge of writing and writing research skills you covered in ENG 1010 - College Writing and Research 1. The course stresses intellectual and analytical reasoning and their contribution to good research and writing practices. Students continue to drill the mechanics of grammar and provide input for other student writers. As a summative exercise, students will examine examples of research and reasoning as they relate to and help us understand the biblical text. (3) Limited to online program students.
3.00 credit hours
- HIS 2010 World Civilizations
This course surveys world history from the beginning of civilization to AD 1700. You will study the origins and achievements of the major civilizations of Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. You will also be exposed to Christian, Islamic, and Byzantine cultures. Upon completion of the course, you will have gained a foundational understanding of ancient history-historical, cultural, and geographical factors-and grasp its relationship to the biblical record. (3) Limited to online program students.
3.00 credit hours
- PHI 2110 Introduction to Philosophy
In this course, you will explore some of the fundamental issues that must be addressed by anyone attempting to formulate a comprehensive understanding of things (worldview), and will examine primary texts in order to observe some of the very best thinking regarding these fundamental issues.
3.00 credit hours
- PHI 3010 Personal and Social Ethics
In this course, you will study the history of ethics, ethical decision-making, personal character development, and build a framework of Christian personal and social ethics. You will learn to apply a biblical ethic to a range of contemporary issues. (3)
3.00 credit hours
- SCI 2010 Earth Science
This course is designed to provide you a general overview of environmental science, with an emphasis on sound science, stewardship, and sustainability. Students study basic concepts of environmental science, relationships between living and nonliving things, human impact upon the environment, and proper care of earth's resources. Critical thinking skills will be utilized throughout this course, with a view toward helping you carefully consider scientific concepts and their effects upon human interactions. The study of environmental science is approached from the perspective that human beings are tasked with practicing appropriate stewardship of God's creation. (3) Limited to online program students.
3.00 credit hours
- SOC 1010 Succeeding at CIU
Through this course, you will be introduced to communication, self-motivation, and critical thinking skills necessary for academic success at CIU. (3) Limited to online program students.
3.00 credit hours
- SOC 2010 Cultural Diversity
This course is an exploration of cultural diversity and multiculturalism within the framework of a biblical worldview. This course provides you with a process to understand and relate to people of various cultures. It also provides ongoing preparation for effective interaction with all kinds of people in our culturally diverse world. Growth in these skills will equip you with what you need to build trust across cultural differences. (3) Limited to online program students.
3.00 credit hours
- RES 4010 Research Statistics
This course is designed to introduce you to descriptive and inferential statistics. With this knowledge, you should then be better equipped to complete research projects in your chosen field of study. You will analyze a number of well-known statistical tests and research strategies and then demonstrate your ability to use the tests. After exploring population parameters and the proper uses of designated statistical tests, you will discover how to use computer applications to free yourself from the notation requirements and mechanics of the statistical tests, so the research process can become less tedious and more conceptual in nature. (3) Limited to online program students.
3.00 credit hours
Accreditation and Accolades
Career Path Opportunities
This degree is uniquely tailored to prepare you for a wide variety of careers or for further academic studies.
- Ministry leader
- Business professional
- Project Manager
- Human Resources Manager
- Research Assistant
- Nonprofit Program Coordinator
- Entrepreneur
Top FAQs
- What is the duration of the Bachelor of Science in General Studies degree program?
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Program length varies depending on the courses that are transferred into the program.
- Can I choose my own courses and customize my degree within the Bachelor of Science in General Studies program?
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Yes, the Bachelor of Science in General Studies program offers flexibility in course selection, allowing you to customize your degree based on your interests and career goals. Check the Academic catalog link for more information on specific program requirements.
- Can I pursue a concentration or specialization within the Bachelor of Science in General Studies program?
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While the Bachelor of Science in General Studies program does not offer concentrations, you have the opportunity to focus your studies by selecting courses from specific disciplines or areas of interest.
- How does a Bachelor of Science in General Studies differ from a more specialized degree program?
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A Bachelor of Science in General Studies offers a broader and more interdisciplinary approach to education compared to specialized degree programs. It allows you to explore multiple disciplines and develop a well-rounded skill set that can be applied to diverse career paths.
- Can I pursue graduate studies after completing a Bachelor of Science in General Studies?
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Yes, a Bachelor of Science in General Studies degree can serve as a solid foundation for further graduate studies. Graduates may choose to pursue advanced degrees in fields such as business, communication, ministry, social sciences or other specialized areas.
- Can I transfer credits from other programs or institutions into the Bachelor of Science in General Studies program?
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Yes, this program is designed for the transfer student, allowing you to build on the course work you already have. Check with your academic advisor for more information on how the work you have already completed applies to this degree program.