Overview

The General Studies A.A. at South Dakota State University provides a comprehensive academic foundation designed to support lifelong learning and professional versatility. This programme serves as a strategic stepping stone for students intending to transition into a full bachelor's degree or those seeking a broad university-level education. By engaging with a variety of disciplines, students develop the critical thinking and leadership skills necessary for modern career environments.

This curriculum is particularly suited for self-motivated individuals who wish to explore multiple career paths before committing to a specific major. It offers the flexibility to study across various subject areas, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

Why General Studies at South Dakota State University?

Choosing this programme allows students to benefit from the extensive resources of a leading public institution while maintaining the freedom to customise their educational journey. The university provides dedicated support through the Wintrode Student Success and Opportunity Center, ensuring students have the guidance needed to navigate their academic choices. With options for on-campus study in Brookings, Pierre, and Rapid City, or via flexible online delivery, the programme accommodates diverse learning needs.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 387 per credit
National fee: USD 387 per credit
Local fee: USD 267 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on core university-level competencies across multiple departments. Modules may include:

General Education
Interdisciplinary Studies
Academic Research
Communication
Humanities
Social Sciences
Natural Sciences
Mathematics

Careers with General Studies

Graduates of this programme are equipped for a wide range of professional roles that require a strong general education background. The versatile nature of the degree allows individuals to enter various sectors, from corporate administration to community services. Students often find success in roles that value adaptability, communication, and broad knowledge bases.

Potential career paths and roles for graduates include:

Customer Service Representative
Child Care Specialist
Bank Teller
Sales Representative
Document Control Specialist
Radiologic Technologist
Membership Director
Paralegal

Alumni have secured employment with a variety of organisations, including Avera Health, Daktronics, and the Brookings Chamber of Commerce. Others have found opportunities within city government offices, automotive firms like CarQuest Auto Parts, or have pursued self-employment. The programme also serves as an excellent bridge for those continuing their professional development within South Dakota State University.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Composition

Social Sciences

Natural Sciences

Humanities and Arts/Diversity
Mathematics

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-15 00:00:00 , International

More details

National: SDSU accepts applications on a rolling admissions timeline.

Language

English

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IELTS

5.5

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Credits

60 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Online

Campus Location

Brookings, United States

Disciplines

General Studies View 585 other Bachelors in General Studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.6

English requirements

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IELTS

5.5

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

For admission to SDSU, we look for one of the following academic achievements:

An ACT composite score or ACT superscore of 18 or SAT Math and Reading/Writing subscore total of 970 or
Level 3 or higher on Math and English Language Arts Smarter Balance Assessment or
A high school cumulative GPA of 2.6 or higher or
A ranking in the top 60 percent of graduating class.

Students should also complete the following core courses with a “C” average or above:

4 years of English (or ACT English subscore of 18 or above).
3 years of advanced math—Algebra I and higher (or ACT math subscore of 20).
3 years of laboratory science (or ACT science reasoning subscore of 17).
3 years of social science (or ACT reading subscore of 17).
1 year of fine arts (or AP Fine Arts score of 3 or above) Includes vocal, instrumental and studio arts.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

11610 USD / year

≈ 11610 USD / year
Out-of-State

11610 USD / year

≈ 11610 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

8010 USD / year

≈ 8010 USD / year

Additional Details

Minnesota Resident: $312.25 per credit.

Living costs

Brookings

United States

1085 - 1888 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for General Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Additional Details

Living costs

Brookings

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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