Online Bachelor of General Studies
The interdisciplinary nature of the B.G.S. program prepares you to excel in a number of different fields and pursuits.
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Request InfoBachelor of General Studies (B.G.S.) Overview
The University of West Florida’s online Bachelor of General Studies (B.G.S.) prepares you to enter an increasingly diverse workforce with marketable skills. Focus on the experience you need by building this general studies program to align with your career goals.
The B.G.S. degree includes four areas of emphasis: Communication, Information Literacy, Problem-Solving/Decision-Making and Community Leadership. In addition to these areas of interest, you can use electives to choose a minor or complete a certificate. Choose from the following certificates:
- Human Resource Management
- Public, Technical and Workplace Writing
Candidates for This Program Include:
- Students with a wide range of academic backgrounds
- Nontraditional students whose age, residence, academic interests or career objectives require a more individualized university degree
Complete the Degree so You Can:
- Identify key concepts from each of the four cognate areas (Communication, Information Literacy, Problem-Solving/Decision-Making and Community Leadership)
- Articulate the rationale for your individualized program of study
- Synthesize key concepts across disciplines by completing a capstone research project
- Practice oral and written standards of communication appropriate for both academic and professional environments
- Practice academic integrity and respect for intellectual property
Courses and Requirements
UWF’s online Bachelor of General Studies requires the completion of 120 credit hours. The curriculum includes:
- ENC 3213 - Professional and Technical Writing
3 Credit Hours
Professional and Technical Writing
Students will learn an overview of professional and technical writing principles, current communication issues, research practices and emerging technologies. This course focuses on communications skills essential for success in technical and professional communication, including audience analysis, collaboration and document design. Students will create documents such as letters, manuals, reports and proposals used in a variety of workplace environments. Students who have already passed ENC 3240 or ENC 3250 must receive instructor permission to enroll in this course. Meets Gordon Rule writing requirement. Prerequisite: ENC 1101 AND ENC 1102.
Choose one of the following:
- COM 3014 - Gender Communication
3 Credit Hours
Gender Communication
Examines the roles gender plays in managing diversity in the workplace, developing personal relationships and exploring mass media in contemporary culture. This course is designed to increase your understanding of gender as it is constructed, performed, evaluated, and negotiated through communication. Meets Multicultural Requirement.
- ENC 3416 - Digital Writing
3 Credit Hours
Digital Writing
Students will compose and analyze digital texts that incorporate images, sounds, video, and language. Course focuses on the theory, analysis, and production of digital texts such as blogs, websites, audio podcasts, video, and visual arguments. Across the semester, students will study audience analysis, and as a final culmination of their work, students will design and deliver an e-Portfolio project. Meets Gordon Rule Writing Requirement.
- GEB 3213 - Writing for Business: Theory and Practice
3 Credit Hours
Writing for Business: Theory and Practice
Augments the basics of business writing while reviewing the various kinds of written business correspondence. Students are expected to integrate ethical decision making skills, word processing skills, grammar and writing skills, and analytical thinking skills into the content. Students must be able to determine solutions to problem based exercises. Team assignments and oral presentations may relate to student's discipline. Meets Gordon Rule Writing Requirement. Prerequisite: ENC 1101 AND ENC 1102
- LIN 3673 - Grammar for Professional Success
3 Credit Hours
Grammar for Professional Success
An upper-division grammar class which focuses on the principles and conventions of writing. The purpose of this course is twofold: to review the regulatory rules of writing so that students can write responsibly by controlling and editing their own work; and to offer students the language choices available to them as speakers and writers of American English: language choices for informal conversations and texting, for instance, versus language choices for academic, business, and other forms of published writing. Because acceptable professional communication is different from some "acceptable" forms of digital communication, the course makes overt distinctions between the two. Whether your goal is to improve your writing, review the mechanics of writing, become a professional editor, or to learn enough grammar to teach it, this course will give you the kind of knowledge about the English language that most educated members of our society share. The principal goal of Practical Grammar is to offer students a review of the principles and rules of standard American English so that they can edit their own documents. As William Strunk, Jr. says in The Elements of Style, "One must first know the rules [of grammar] to break them.".
- LIN 3742 - Modern Grammar and Usage
3 Credit Hours
Modern Grammar and Usage
Grammar of modern English, including traditional; concentration on structural, generative and transformational approaches. Intended for English majors, required of those preparing for careers in secondary education.
- PLA 3106 - Legal Research and Writing
3 Credit Hours
Legal Research and Writing
Legal Research and Writing introduces the student to the sources, tools and techniques of legal research and writing including, but not limited to, primary and secondary sources covering judicial, legislative and executive branches. Legal Research and Writing is designed to introduce skills needed in order to become proficient in legal research.
- SOW 3350 - Interviewing and Recording
3 Credit Hours
Interviewing and Recording
Practice in interviewing techniques and in precise, descriptive, and accurate writing techniques for practitioners in social work, psychology, and other helping professions. Students will learn interview techniques, how to record sessions accurately and in formats required for opening, transferring, updating and closing a social work client record. Students will learn American Psychological Association writing guidelines. Meets Gordon Rule Writing Requirement.
- SPC 3301 - Interpersonal Communication
3 Credit Hours
Interpersonal Communication
Emphasizes the link between interpersonal communication skills and relationship building in personal and professional contexts. Includes components on self-awareness, impression management, rapport building, developing intimacy, managing conflict, ethical use of interpersonal power, diversity issues, leadership, and using technology to facilitate interpersonal communication. Involves hands-on service learning project that provides the opportunity to practice interpersonal skills in a professional setting.
- ENC 3213 - Professional and Technical Writing
Choose two of the following:
- ANT 3212 - Peoples and Cultures of the World
3 Credit Hours
Peoples and Cultures of the World
Culture areas of the world and frameworks for cultural comparison. Detailed study of representative peoples around the world gives emphasis to non-Western societies and the reporting tool of ethnography. Meets Multicultural Requirement.
- CCJ 4700 - Research Design in Criminal Justice
3 Credit Hours
Research Design in Criminal Justice
Designed to give students an understanding of the basic principles and practices of empirical research as they are practiced in criminal justice and to enhance students' critical thinking skills with respect to criminal justice programs and proposals. Meets Gordon Rule Writing Requirement.
- GEB 3032 - Business Foundations for Non-Business Majors
3 Credit Hours
Business Foundations for Non-Business Majors
Provides non-business students a foundation in the functional areas of management, marketing, finance, accounting and economics. Designed to provide students with a knowledge base that will give access to a broad range of upper level business courses. Available only to non-business majors.
- INR 3503 - International Organizations
3 Credit Hours
International Organizations
Modern international organizations are a solution. They are created and designed to address a simple problem: a world of separate states with different interests and agendas. This course will examine international organizations through readings, briefings, and simulations. Along the way, we evaluate and discuss ongoing current events as they relate to global issues. Students will start with the origins of international organizations. With a particular focus on the United Nations, students then research and write position papers as well as practice extemporaneous speaking and committee procedures. In addition to an exam and smaller papers throughout the course, students will spend time in a committee simulation and, to conclude, draw together their work in a final project.
- MAN 3025 - Management Fundamentals
3 Credit Hours
Management Fundamentals
Study of principles of management. Process and content of management analyzed. Emphasizes classical, human relations, human resources, behavioral and quantitative management methods. Content includes planning, organizing, leading, control, employment cycle, organization design, and motivation. Prerequisite: Completion of 45 hours of college course work is required prior to taking this course.
- SPM 3004 - Introduction to Contemporary Sport Management
3 Credit Hours
Introduction to Contemporary Sport Management
Introduction to the field of sport management required for all students in the major and available to students interested in working in the sport industry. Provides an overview of sport management rather than detailed instructions about how to manage sport enterprises. It serves as a foundation for students' further studies in various subject areas in the field/profession of sport management, such as sport marketing, sport law, sport facility and event management, economics of sport, sport finance, etc.
- ANT 3212 - Peoples and Cultures of the World
Choose two of the following:
- CCJ 3060 - Ethics and the Justice System
3 Credit Hours
Ethics and the Justice System
Identification and analysis of ethical issues in the American justice system.
- CPO 4761 - Religion and International Politics
3 Credit Hours
Religion and International Politics
This course analyzes how religious beliefs and institutions shape politics that cross borders. It draws upon an array of writings to examine major global phenomena like the religious roots of international order; religious challenges both to modern states and to recent globalization; and activism amongst global religious movements. In turn, the course concentrates on two major issues for scholars, policy-makers and citizens alike: 1) international religious extremism and violence and 2) religious influences on - and targets of - U.S. foreign policy. Examples of topics covered along the way include Evangelical activism and ideologies, religious terrorism and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
- HIS 3313 - Issues in Gender and Diversity
3 Credit Hours
Issues in Gender and Diversity
Provides an interdisciplinary introduction to the theoretical and social issues regarding diverse groups and gender stereotypes. Focuses on how gender and diversity fit into the actions and interactions of the private and public sectors, and presents information on how to effectively promote institutions, relationships, politics, and services that value diversity and eliminate gender stereotypes.
- INR 4334 - National Security Policy
3 Credit Hours
National Security Policy
This course introduces students to the basic concepts, theoretical debates and practical policy issues surrounding American national security. It examines the historical setting and the major theoretical traditions surrounding the study of national security. It explores the context of national security domestically and internationally, including key players in both the international system and the US political system. The role of institutions of the national security establishment will be considered such as the executive branch of the US government including the President, the National Security Council, the Department of Defense, and intelligence agencies as well as the roles for the legislative branch in the U.S. Congress. The course also looks at the policy-making process in national security decision-making. Multiple historical cases will be considered with applications of key concepts and theories from the class.
- ISM 3011 - e-Business Systems Fundamentals
3 Credit Hours
e-Business Systems Fundamentals
Use and application of information system technology in the business environment, with emphasis on the fundamental e-Business models, technology concepts and systems used to enable and conduct electronic business. Concepts include the components of an I.S., the systems development process, the functions of the various types of communication networks, hardware, and software, including practical, hands-on projects designed to enhance e-Business analytical skills. Prerequisite: Completion of 45 hours of college course work is required prior to taking this course.
- MAN 3301 - Human Resources Management
3 Credit Hours
Human Resources Management
Introduction to personnel administration; emphasis on the basic personnel function of both the personnel specialist and the operating manager. Critical issues stressed include selection, compensation, OSHA, EEO, unions and discipline. Prerequisite: Completion of 45 hours of college course work is required prior to taking this course.
- MAN 4102 - Management of Diversity
3 Credit Hours
Management of Diversity
Roles, behaviors, career paths, motivational strategies, obstacles, and collegial reaction to managing diversity within the labor force are an integral aspect of the course. Personal assessment of communication styles and diversity in management styles. Discussions focus on diversity awareness and strategies to enhance productivity through team effort. Emphasis on proactive steps to integrate a diverse work force toward a more productive unit. Offered concurrently with MAN 5116; graduate students will be assigned additional work. Meets Multicultural Requirement. Prerequisite: Completion of 60 hours of college course work is required prior to taking this course.
- PHI 3670 - Ethics
3 Credit Hours
Ethics
Philosophical theories concerning nature of the good, moral obligation, human excellence and application of ethical theory to problems of the individual in relation to society. Meets Gordon Rule Writing Requirement.
- SOW 4233 - Human Diversity and Social Justice
3 Credit Hours
Human Diversity and Social Justice
Examines the impact of social, economic, and political environments on diverse populations specifically race, gender, age, ethnicity, culture, class, sexual orientation, religion, and physical and mental ability. Integrates the key elements of the profession of social work through the filter/lens of social, political, and economic justice. Meets Multicultural Requirement.
- CCJ 3060 - Ethics and the Justice System
Choose two of the following:
- HSC 3034 - Career Essentials for Healthcare
3 Credit Hours
Career Essentials for Healthcare
This course provides an overview of the field of health sciences and introduces students to essential skills required for career success in various healthcare professions. Content will also cover important issues facing today's healthcare environment.
- HSC 4633 - Current Issues in Health Promotion
3 Credit Hours
Current Issues in Health Promotion
(Recommended for CHES exam) A study of current and emerging health issues affecting communities on a local and global level. Health promotion programs, approaches and measures will be examined. Emphasis will be placed on the environment, health care, behavioral health, lifestyle factors, social determinants of health and communicable diseases. This course is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of fundamental research tools, methods and concepts for assessing health promotion issues.
- MAN 4280 - Business Leadership and Change Management
3 Credit Hours
Business Leadership and Change Management
A course on Leadership and Change Management to prepare students to respond to the needs of a dynamic global business climate. Prepares students to take responsibility to work collaboratively with others in developing change management strategies in bringing about change and overcoming resistance. Prerequisite: Completion of 60 hours of college course work is required prior to taking this course.
- SPC 4680 - Rhetoric, Media and Civic Life
3 Credit Hours
Rhetoric, Media and Civic Life
The rationale, methods, and applications of rhetorical criticism. Goal is to improve understanding and evaluation of real-world persuasive communication. Lecture and reading materials are divided into two main units. First is the general nature of both rhetoric and criticism, providing a basic conceptual framework for the identification and analysis of rhetorical artifacts. Second is a survey of nine contemporary critical approaches; cluster criticism, fantasy-theme criticism, feminist criticism, genre criticism, ideological criticism, metamorphic criticism, narrative criticism, pentadic criticism, generative criticism.
- SPM 3115 - Managing a Sport Organization
3 Credit Hours
Managing a Sport Organization
Organizational behavior, management, and leadership issues specific to the sport business environment. Students will gain knowledge of management and leadership best practices in sport business. Students will also learn how a variety of management and leadership practices impact sport organizations.
- SOW 5106 - Human Behavior in Communities and Organizations
3 Credit Hours
Human Behavior in Communities and Organizations
This foundation year course focuses on human behavior in organizations and communities. The course familiarizes students with the intervention strategies of community organization. Emphasis is placed on the social workerÕs role as change agent and models and strategies for community organizing. Content related to values and ethics of community organization in relation to the client, the organization and the community is covered. Intervention plans are highlighted which focus on planned change efforts and containing strong evaluation plans are utilized in working with human service agencies serving vulnerable populations.
- HSC 3034 - Career Essentials for Healthcare
Select eight courses (24 semester hours) of advisor-approved electives.
- IDS 4890 - Senior Capstone
3 Credit Hours
Senior Capstone
The Senior Capstone for the Bachelor of General Studies is designed to encourage self-analysis of career and intellectual interests in the student's chosen career or academic field based on the four cognate areas. By way of readings, discussion, analytical exercises, writing assignments, group exercises, and class presentations, students will demonstrate and practice the skills they have acquired throughout their academic careers. Students will develop a detailed project proposal and complete a final research project linking the four areas of study of the student's personalized BGS degree plan with career and intellectual interests. The final written project will consist of research, reviews, and analysis targeted toward a specified audience. A presentation of the project is required.
- IDS 4890 - Senior Capstone
Admission Requirements
To be considered for admission into UWF’s online general studies program, you must:
- Have a cumulative 2.0 GPA in all previously attempted college work
- Successfully complete all prerequisite courses with a grade of C or better
How to Apply
To apply for admission to this program, you first need to submit an application for undergraduate admission (plus a $30 application fee) and be accepted for admission into University of West Florida. In addition, you must:
- Submit official transcripts from all institutions previously attended whose accrediting agency is included on the list of UWF approved accrediting agencies
- Submit ACT or SAT scores
- Complete the residency application form for tuition purposes
- Complete the General Studies application form
Have questions about this program or the admissions process? Contact our undergraduate admissions team at admissions@uwf.edu.
Costs & Financial Aid
Tuition
| Component | Cost | Total* |
|---|---|---|
| Full Program Tuition | $218.98 per credit hour | $26,277.60 |
| Tuition with Maximum Transfer Credits (Up to ) | $218.98 per credit hour | $0.00 |
| Component | Cost | Total* |
|---|---|---|
| In-State Tuition | $218.98 per credit hour | $26,277.60 |
| In-State Tuition with Maximum Transfer Credits (Up to 90) | $218.98 per credit hour | $6,569.40 |
| Full Out-of-State Tuition | $648.37 per credit hour | $77,804.40 |
| 75% Out-of-State Tuition Waiver | $341.67 per credit hour | $41,000.40 |
Tuition waivers cover up to 75% of the non-resident portion of your tuition. These waivers are available to non-Florida residents (including international students) admitted to online programs and registered for online courses in active pursuit of that degree or certificate. You must pay all other assessed tuition and fees. Review Tuition Waiver Information to learn more.
Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress. Fees are charged per semester unless otherwise noted. This program takes up to 48 months to complete, depending on course availability.
Refer to UWF Cost of Attendance Estimates and Financial Literacy for more information on UWF costs and financial aid.
* Tuition and fees are subject to change.
Alabama Differential Out-of-State Tuition
Residents of Alabama are eligible for Alabama Differential Tuition, a reduced out-of-state tuition rate. For more information and to verify residency status for tuition purposes, new undergraduate students should contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions and new graduate students should contact the Graduate School. Students who are currently enrolled should contact the Office of the Registrar.
Active Duty Military
All active-duty members of the U.S. military who are residing or are stationed outside the state of Florida shall have all (100%) out-of-state fees waived by the University. Contact the Military & Veterans Resource Center to apply for the Active Duty Military Out-of-State Waiver.
UWF Short-Term Financial Assistance
The University of West Florida provides eligible students with an alternative to paying the full amount of tuition at the beginning of each term in the form of an installment payment plan or a short-term loan.
Military Students
UWF proudly serves active duty U.S. military members and veterans. As UWF has been a participant of the Yellow Ribbon Program since 2011, you could be eligible to receive free tuition with your military benefits.
See How We Can Serve YouFinancial Aid
Funding your college education should not empty your wallet. We offer various financial aid options for our online students, including loans, scholarships and grants for degree-seeking students.
Learn More About Financial AidCareer Outcomes
When you complete UWF’s Bachelor of General Studies, your interdisciplinary skills will enable you to start on varied career paths, such as:
* Salary information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs start companies and oversee their development. Tasks include setting up startups, hiring and managing employees, and overseeing every aspect of businesses.
Public Relations Specialists
Public relations specialists create and maintain a positive public image for their clients. They can work in various fields, including educational services, advertising, government, business and more. The median annual salary for public relations specialists was $62,800 in May 2021, and jobs for these professionals are projected to grow eight percent from 2021 to 2031.
Writers and Authors
Writers and authors may develop content for clients, employers or publishers. They may work with various media and diverse audiences. In 2021, writers and authors made a median annual salary of $69,510, although the highest 10 percent of earners made $133,580 annually. While the job outlook is predicted to be the same through 2031, online content development skills in social media and multimedia will be highly sought after.