Associate in General Studies
Associate in General Studies
Take your love of learning and get a comprehensive education without committing to a specific program of study. Choose your educational path to prepare you for the jobs that interest you most.
4
semesters to complete an Associate in General Studies, or go at your own pace.
Strengthen your job-ready skills in communication, research, mathematics, and problem solving. This well-rounded program will provide you with interdisciplinary knowledge for today’s interdisciplinary job market.
Admissions Office
Students wanting to eventually transfer to a four-year institution should work closely with their academic advisor.
Network with other students through ICC student organizations including Rotaract, Student Government Association, and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
A general studies degree can lead to careers in various industries, or to further your education at a four-year institution.
COMPLETION TIME
18 Months
if Full Time
4 Semesters60 Total Credit Hours
What if I attend part-time?
Our Student Success Advisors help with an academic plan that works for you.
ESTIMATED COST
$9,600
+ supplies & fees
Based on 2024-25
What financial assistance can I receive?
Find the plan right for you by connecting with our Financial Aid office.
AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
25 Students
average per class
Small class sizes mean more individual attention and a higher rate of success.
View the College Catalog to see a complete list of classes for this program.
Admissions
Meet Our Students and Alumni
Community college students who transfer to four-year schools perform as well as – or even better than – their peers who come directly from high school.
Jack Kent Cooke Foundation
How Do I Get Into the Associate in General Studies Program?
If you are naturally curious and love gaining knowledge in a variety of disciplines, this degree program might be the right fit. Talk to an Admissions representative to learn how to get started.
- Complete our quick admissions application. It’s free and easy!
- Apply for financial aid (FAFSA).
- Apply for ICC Scholarships. Just one easy application for over hundreds of scholarships.
What Can I Expect as an Associate in General Studies Student?
- A strong, general foundation in the humanities.
- Save on tuition costs by starting your education journey at Illinois Central College.
- Nearly all ICC students are eligible to receive some form of financial assistance.
How Am I Going to Manage This?
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What if I am working while going to school?
We have you covered. Many of our students are working adults who balance life and school. We have great resources on campus to help keep you going!
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What are my options for funding my education?
Do this first: fill out and file your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Even if you don’t want federal aid, this document is used by many scholarship and grant programs to evaluate aid packages.
Look for scholarships and grants first because usually they don’t have to be paid back. The ICC Foundation sponsors some scholarships, and grants may be available from Illinois or federal programs. Other organizations also offer scholarships, and we can help you research those opportunities.
Federally guaranteed student loans can be a smart way to fund college. Think about your transfer plans and what your career looks like. Some sources recommend that you cap your borrowing at the level of what you (realistically!) can expect to earn at your first job after college. So, research careers and pay, too.
Of course, savings, jobs, and work-study are key parts of your budget. Your employer may offer tuition reimbursement. Find the tools to make a complete plan for paying for school.