What is Program of Study in General Education?

Not sure what you want to major in yet? The Associate of Arts in General Edcuation gives you the flexibility to explore different subjects while building essential skills that apply to a wide range of careers. This program offers a well-rounded education in math, science, social sciences, humanities, and technology, providing a strong academic foundation for future studies or career opportunities. 

At MSU-Northern, you’ll develop critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills while discovering your interests. Whether you plan to continue your education toward a bachelor's degree or enter the workforce, this program gives you the versatility to shape your future. 

Why Choose the Program of Study in General Education Program?

MSU-Northern’s General Education program is designed to help you keep your options open. With a customizable curriculum, you can work closely with advisors to choose courses that align with your personal and professional goals. By earning this degree, you’ll also fulfill the general education requirements for bachelor’s degrees across the Montana University System, making it easy to transfer or continue your studies. 

This program equips you with essential communication, problem-solving, and cultural awareness skills that employers value in nearly every industry. Whether you’re preparing for further education or an entry-level career, the Associate of Arts in General Education sets you up for success. 

Here are some of the things you'll learn:

  • Communicate effectively in writing and speech
  • Apply problem-solving techniques using math, science, and logical reasoning
  • Understand social structures and how they impact communities
  • Appreciate creative arts and cultural perspectives
  • Use technology in academic and professional settings 

As a General Education student at MSU-Northern, you’ll benefit from a highly flexible and customizable program that allows you to explore different fields of study. Faculty and advisors are dedicated to helping you develop a strong academic foundation that supports your future goals—whether that means transferring to a bachelor’s program or starting a career right away. 

MSU-Northern’s Program of Study in General Education Program is designed for students who want to explore different academic paths before choosing a specialization. With courses in math, science, social sciences, humanities, and technology, you’ll gain broad knowledge that prepares you for a variety of career or transfer opportunities.

Completion of this degree satisfies all general education requirements for bachelor’s degrees across Montana’s public universities, making it an ideal choice if you plan to transfer or pursue a higher degree. Our experienced faculty and supportive advisors will help you navigate your choices and prepare for your next steps. 

A degree in General Education gives you versatile skills that apply to many entry-level roles across industries. Whether you’re interested in administration, social services, or business, this program provides a strong foundation for future career growth or specialized training in fields like healthcare, business, or legal studies. With careful planning, you can even use this degree to prepare for a Dental Hygienist, Mortuary Science, or Radiology Technician degree. 

Potential Careers
Career Description Median Salary*

Administrative Assistant 

 Performs routine clerical and organizational tasks, such as managing files, preparing documents, scheduling appointments, and supporting other staff.  $40,990
Social Media Coordinator  Manages and creates content for an organization's social media platforms, engaging with the audience to enhance brand presence.  $55,000
Paralegal  Assists lawyers by maintaining and organizing files, conducting legal research, and drafting documents.  $56,230
Human Resources Assistant  Supports HR departments by maintaining employee records, assisting with recruitment, and providing information to employees regarding policies and benefits.  $45,630 
Accounting Clerk  Performs a range of general accounting tasks, including updating financial records, processing transactions, and assisting with audits.  $45,560
Healthcare Support Positions  Encompasses various roles that assist healthcare professionals, such as medical assistants, nursing aides, and dental assistants, involving tasks from patient care to administrative duties.  Varies by position; for example, Medical Assistants earn $38,190

*Please note that the salaries provided here are for illustrative purposes only and are general estimates based on various data sources. Salaries can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and specific employer. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consulting industry-specific reports or professional organizations is recommended.

"Not only are the professors dedicated and supportive, but the program is a great way to sample different majors.  It’s a very affordable program for the wealth of knowledge gained.”
- Carsyn Vogel 

"The General Studies program set a good foundation for me to either pursue a specialized degree or enter the workforce with a broadened perspective, allowing me to dip my toes into various fields of study without committing to just one.  The classes helped me build on skills such as interpersonal communications and creative thinking/analyzing, and gave me important tools necessary to address and understand diverse groups of people in various contexts”
- Tyler Vauthier 

The Academic Map provides a clear semester-by-semester breakdown of the courses required to complete the program.

Example Courses:

  • Creative Writing
  • World Mythology
  • Microbiology
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Criminology
  • 3D Printing   

Our Financial Aid team is here to support you in overcoming financial barriers and unlocking opportunities.  Learn about scholarships, grants, loans, work study, and federal aid.

For estimated tuition/fees, residence hall rates and more, see the 2024-2025 Estimated Costs of Attendance document, and for detailed tuition and fee costs including course fees, see the Tuition and Fees page.
 

Casey Donoven, Mathematics
  Office: Cowan Hall 301
  Phone: (406) 265-4135 

Valerie Guyant, English | Bio | CV
  Office: Cowan Hall 304
  Phone: (406) 265-4173

Gwen Hart, English | Bio | CV
  Office: Cowan Hall 302B
  Phone: (406) 265-3563

Grant Olson, Theatre and Communication
  Office: Cowan Hall 302C
  Phone: (406) 265-4171

Matthias Rischard, English
  Office: Cowan Hall 306E
  Phone: (406) 265-3723 

Mark Seiffert, Communication
  Office: Cowan Hall 312B
  Phone: (406) 265-3739