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The History of the B.A. in General Studies Program at Eastern Illinois University



Easter Illinois University - Bachelor General Studies 

The BGS program was created in 1972 under the title of the Board of Governors Bachelor of Arts Degree Program (BOG). In the early 1970s, higher education focused almost exclusively on educating 17-23 year olds. Access to higher education for the mature adult, with job and family responsibilities, was extremely limited. Available programs required adult students to take classes during the day in a format consistent with that provided to traditional students. This often meant the adult would be required to quit his/her job and move closer to campus, neither of which were viable options for most adults. In response to these barriers, Dr. Robert Pringle, Vice Chancellor of the Board of Governors University System, led the development of the BOG degree program

Since 1973, the BOG Program at EIU has had two name changes, and is currently known as the B.A. in General Studies (BGS). This degree is a combination of the liberal arts and interdisciplinary education. The BGS program permits students to take an array of classes allowing them to complete a more general degree than the typical undergraduate degree major. Rather than declaring a major, students may choose an area of concentration or minor(s). This degree allows students flexibility by letting them select the subjects they wish to study. Previous credits earned at regionally accredited colleges, military training, ACE certified workplace training and proficiency examinations can all be applied towards the BGS degree.

The program at EIU has continued to thrive and to serve the needs of the adult learner for more than 40 years, graduating thousands of students. Alumni work in a variety of fields, depending on their interests, previous employment and educational focus. A survey of graduates from the 2013-2014 academic year found alumni working in business, non-profits, law enforcement, education and health care. Approximately 30% are pursuing an advanced degree. Disciplines include business, technology, counseling, family and consumer sciences, health care and law. 

 To learn more about our current programs visit our website for program options, and application. 

Have questions about B.A, General Studies program? We have answers! 


If you can't find the information you are looking for please contact us directly via the website  or you can post your questions to our social media sites including Facebook, Twitter or Google+ and we will get you in touch with one of our academic advisors. 



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Location: Illinois, USA

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