Northern Illinois University
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

If you are looking for a degree that fits your schedule with some great outcomes after you graduate, NIU’s Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) program is for you.

You may be an adult returning to school, balancing work and family life while continuing your education. Our BGS program lets you customize how you earn your degree. Take courses full or part time, online or in the classroom. Finish your degree while taking care of your everyday needs.

You may be a current NIU student looking for a more flexible degree option or a transfer student looking for a major that will prepare you for the workforce. The BGS program lets you select courses that match your interests, creating a one-of-a-kind degree path.

You'll choose courses taught by faculty who care about your success, including the physical sciences and math, and humanities fields like philosophy and sociology. You’ll develop critical thinking and communication skills, cultural awareness and the ethical values that employers value.

With your BGS degree from NIU, you'll be prepared – whether you're entering the job market, graduate or pre-professional schools or changing careers.

BGS Success Stories

“I had struggled in other programs because I felt forced to limit my interests for the sake of a degree. Transferring into the BGS program at NIU maximized the value of my prior credits while granting me the opportunity to drive my own education as a nontraditional student, single parent and small trade business owner looking to change careers.

The BGS faculty were very supportive of my unique skills and curiosity, and the program's viable distance learning option allowed me to explore a range of interests spanning judicial politics, legislation, gender, society, rhetoric and technical writing while working full-time.

My BGS foundations have continued to support me through my career as an attorney and advocate. I am grateful to have found a program that supported my drive, curiosity and desire for autonomy and control in my undergraduate experience and allowed me to take my first steps into advocacy.”

Katherine Hanson
BGS graduate
Staff Attorney, C-K Law Group

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“My BGS Degree from NIU was instrumental in obtaining my current role with the Ogle County Health Department. My course work in the program allowed me to develop critical thinking skills as well as advanced writing and speaking skills. I was also able to incorporate an internship in emergency management.

I am very grateful to the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences for their guidance, motivation and support. They were instrumental in helping me persevere through the obstacles and challenges to complete my baccalaureate degree.”

Jameson Russie
BGS graduate
Environmental Inspector, Ogle County Health Department

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