Undergraduate Catalog - UMUC Europe

BACHELOR’S DEGREES
General Studies
Students may seek an academic major in general studies.
Students outside UMUC Europe and UMUC Asia should not
select this major. Students should contact an academic advisor
for additional information about this major.
Major in General Studies
The general studies major allows students to draw from
various disciplines that provide a body of knowledge
appropriate to an identified area of interest (for example,
an aspect of culture, a historical period, or a geographical
location). The interdisciplinary approach emphasizes analysis
and synthesis of diverse theory and practice.
Intended Program Outcomes
The student who graduates with a major in general studies will
be able to
G Understand and apply key concepts from chosen disciplines.
G Develop effective written and oral communication skills
consistent with the chosen areas of study.
G Apply skills and concepts to problems of modern life.
G Define an approach grounded in the chosen disciplines and
appropriate to the study of a specific topic, area, or theme.
G Develop effective skills in cross-disciplinary comparison,
historical and critical analysis, research, and evaluation.
G Use computers for communication and research.
G Demonstrate information literacy through research and
resource evaluation appropriate to the chosen area of study.
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UNDERGRADUATE CATALOG | 2011-2012
Degree Requirements
A degree with a major in general studies requires the successful
completion of 120 credits of coursework including 30 credits
for the major (indicated by F); 41 credits in general education
requirements (GERs); and 49 credits in the minor, electives,
and other degree requirements. At least 15 credits in the
major must be earned in upper-level courses (numbered 300
or above).
Requirements for the
General Studies Major
Coursework for the major in general studies includes
either 15 credits in each of two different disciplines
or specific coursework for a particular curriculum
as defined by UMUC. The general studies major
requires prior approval. Unless the curriculum has
already been defined by UMUC, students must
submit a formal proposal explaining the focus and
intended program outcomes of the proposed course
of study and identifying specific courses to fulfill
those learning outcomes. Students should consult
an academic advisor about eligibility for the major
and about the requirements and procedure for
submitting a proposal.
Recommended Sequence
The following course sequence will fulfill the requirements
for the BS in general studies if course selection in the major is
approved. Since some recommended courses fulfill more than
one requirement, substituting courses for those listed may
make it necessary to take additional courses to meet degree
requirements. Students should consult an academic advisor
whenever taking advantage of other options.
Information on alternate courses (where allowable) to fulfill
general education requirements (in communications, arts
and humanities, behavioral and social sciences, biological and
physical sciences, mathematics, and interdisciplinary issues)
may be found on p. 63.