General Studies, B.A., B.S.

Andrew Downs, Ph.D. and Larry Larsen, M.F.A., Directors
Though most students will develop a depth of knowledge in their upper-division work through concentrated study in a single area, some students will find a multidisciplinary program of study better serves their educational goals. The General Studies program is designed for students whose educational and professional outlook is multidisciplinary in nature. Because the decision to follow such a program of study requires a certain level of educational maturity, first-year students may not declare this major. This major may be declared only with the permission of the Associate Dean for Students. 

Learning Outcomes for General Studies Majors

Graduates in General Studies from the University of Portland will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate proficiency in two or more disciplines in the College of Arts and Sciences.
    1. Demonstrate significant content knowledge of the chosen disciplines.
    2. Demonstrate a good understanding of the methodologies of the chosen disciplines.
  2. Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively in written and other forms customary in the chosen disciplines. 
    1. Produce clear and persuasive written work adapted towards specific audiences.
    2. Demonstrate the capacity to effectively use the standard communication media of the chosen disciplines.


University Requirements - 39 hours

See Core Curriculum

College Requirements - 21-33 hours

See College Requirements BA and College Requirements BS

General Electives - 24-51 hours

Major Requirements - 24 hours

24 Upper division credit hours from two different disciplines within the College of Arts and Sciences