Program Overview

Careers change. The ability to think clearly, communicate well, and keep learning doesn't. General Studies builds all three. 51ΑΤΖζ (51ΑΤΖζ) offers you a transformative journey with the General Studies Associate of Arts degree. This program is designed to develop your learning, thinking, and writing skills within a flexible framework, preparing you for upper-division work if you plan to transfer to a four-year institution. The program has also prepared students for success in a variety of careers: the interdisciplinary skillset and durable skills you will develop are valued by employers.

In addition to general education, you will engage in an in-depth research and writing class, enhancing your skills in analysis, synthesis, and creativity. You will also complete at least two 200-level courses beyond general education requirements to prepare you for the workplace or additional college courses. Your journey in the General Studies program culminates in a capstone project, where you will demonstrate your research and writing abilities while reflecting on your learning and showcasing your achievements.

Degree or Certificate Type

Associate of Arts

Available Fully Online

Cost

$10,540

Additional cost may apply.

Time to Complete

2 years

Student working at computer in computer classroom

Learning Opportunities

  • Versatile Degree Design: Embrace a degree that adapts to your academic and career aspirations, offering flexibility and depth.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving: Develop skills in critical thinking and problem-solving, essential for success in any career.
  • Research & Writing Proficiency: Hone your research and writing skills through a specialized course and capstone project.
  • Preparation for Advanced Studies: Gain a strong foundation for transferring to a four-year institution for further academic pursuits.
  • Opportunity for Elective Exploration: Explore your passions through electives while earning a valuable associate degree.

Areas of Study

Degrees & Certificates

General Studies – Associate of Arts Degree
2 Years

AA

Z-Degree

Available Fully Online

Cost:
$10,540

Let's Get Started

Students graduating at the 51ΑΤΖζ commencement ceremony

Career Opportunities

779

Annual Openings*

$
36.02

Hourly Median Wage*

$
74,921

Annual Median Salary

10.07
%

Growth (2025 – 2035)*

*Data sourced from Lightcastβ„’ (2026), a global leader in labor market analytics, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact 51ΑΤΖζ Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond 51ΑΤΖζ.

Admissions

Step 1

Step 2

  • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

New Student Checklist

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Clubs

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News

Stephanie Sevigny posing next to telescope in science lab

Congratulations to Assistant Professor of Physics, Stephanie Sevigny, who has been named Faculty of Distinction for September 2025.

Read more about Sevigny Named September 2025 Faculty of Distinction
Students in library with text: Zero Textbook Costs. Same Quality Education. | Powered by 51ΑΤΖζ's Z-Degree.

Since launching in fall 2023, 51ΑΤΖζ's Z-degree initiative has provided students with an affordable, accessible path to completing their education, saving them more than $2 million in...

Read more about 51ΑΤΖζ Students Save Over $2 Million Through Z-Degree
Jen Campbell standing in front of a lake

General Studies student, Jen Campbell, is proving it’s never too late to chase your dreams, balancing family, work, and school with support from 51ΑΤΖζ scholarships.

Read more about Mother of Four Fulfills Lifelong Dream at 51ΑΤΖζ
Students touring a TV news station pose for a photo on set.

Students from 51ΑΤΖζ’s News Writing and Reporting class visited Boise’s KTVB recently to explore the roles available in journalism and explore what life is like inside a working newsroom.

Read more about 51ΑΤΖζ Students Tour Local News Station, Explore Journalism Careers
Liza Long showing off her students' online book, Beginnings and Endings, on her laptop

A course that teaches application of literary theory to texts may sound abstract and even impractical at first, but for students in Liza Long’s class, their final project offered a real...

Read more about English Students Experience the World of Publishing Firsthand
Dr. Kylee Britzman

51ΑΤΖζ’s Political Science Speaker Series and Common Read Series welcome Dr. Kylee Britzman to campus March 18.

Read more about Political (Mis)Information and Motivated Reasoning
Communicating Scientifically, a Common Read Event

51ΑΤΖζ's Common Read Series invites you to join them for an informative panel discussion all about science featuring 51ΑΤΖζ faculty.

Read more about Common Read Series: Communicating Scientifically
An exhibition of images and poems created during β€œMuse: A Poetry Workshop

An exhibition of images and poems created during β€œMuse: A Poetry Workshop” are on display through Nov. 18.

Read more about Muse Poetry and Art Exhibition

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One Stop Student Services

Locations

Program QR Code

URL: /academics/academic-transfer/general-studies<br>