Associate of Science in General Education
Online
Complete your studies on your own time
Finish in 20 months
Average completion time
Year-round enrollment
Our admissions team reviews applications year-round
Take the first step in your National University Journey
Earn a General Education Degree and Expand Your Intellectual and Professional Opportunities
Degree:
Associate of Science in General Education Degree
Application:
$0 application fee. No essays/exams.
Are you ready to broaden your horizons, expand your knowledge, and develop your skill set? The Associate of Science in General Education program will allow you to gain writing & mathematical skills and explore subject matter disciplines such as humanities, information literacy, science, and social science. Within the curriculum, you will address the cultural diversity of contemporary society and focus on writing & speech communication. Students will also explore mathematical and other formal systems to develop abstract reasoning abilities and take a course in informational literacy.
The program focuses on core competencies that address the soft skills a person needs in the workplace. These soft skills include, but are not limited to writing, oral communication, quantitative reasoning, information literacy, and critical thinking.
The AS in General Education program serves as a feeder program to many scientific tracks and pathways such as a Bachelor of Science degree in biology, public health, clinical science, and radiation therapy.
Why National University’s Associate of Science in General Education Program?
- Hands-On Learning in the Essentials of Education. With new writing and speech skills, and a better understanding of science, mathematics, humanities, and multicultural environments, you’ll have a firm foundation for communicating, learning, and decision-making in all aspects of life and work.
- Designed for Working Professionals. Our associate in general education program offers asynchronous and online course formats that fit the busy schedules of adult learners with convenient four-week courses, monthly starts, and year-round enrollment.
- Tools for Life and More Advanced Studies. The focus on communication fundamentals combined with a broad range of math, science, humanities, and cultural subjects prepares you for a lifetime of personal growth, self-development, and greater possibilities for further education.
Associate of Science in General Education Degree and Course Requirements
To receive the AS degree in General Education, students must complete at least 90 quarter units, 18 of which must be taken in residence at National University. Of the 90 units required, 69 must fall into the areas of General Education as listed below. A list of courses for each category can be found in the General Education section of the Catalog under General Education for Bachelor’s Degrees. In the absence of transfer credit, additional general elective courses may be taken to fulfill the total unit requirement for the degree.
National University awards credit in quarter units, with each academic year divided into four 12-week quarters.
Each quarter is made up of three 4-week classes, with one class per month. Under the current policy, 4.5 units of credit are awarded for courses.
Students planning to apply to National University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program should take on-site anatomy & physiology (BIO201A and BIO202A) and microbiology (BIO203A) labs. The online version of these lab courses is not accepted into NU’s BSN programs.
The General Education Program consists of a minimum of 69 quarter units. Of the 69 units, students must complete at least 4.5 units at the upper-division level and 4.5 units in diversity-enriched coursework. A plus [+] indicates a diversity-enriched offering.
Students are urged to meet English and Mathematics requirements as early as possible in their college studies to avoid serious difficulties in other coursework. Refer to the section on Undergraduate Admission Procedures for specific information regarding application and placement evaluation.
AREA A: ENGLISH COMMUNICATION (Minimum 13.5 quarter units)
AREA B: MATHEMATICAL CONCEPTS AND QUANTITATIVE REASONING (Minimum 9.0 quarter units)
AREA C: INFORMATION LITERACY (Minimum 4.5 quarter units)
AREA D: ARTS, HUMANITIES, and LANGUAGE (Minimum 9 quarter units over at least 2 areas)
AREA E: SOCIAL AND BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES (Minimum 9 quarter units)
AREA F: PHYSICAL AND BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES (Minimum 15 quarter units required)
Note: One 1.5 qu science lab is required. Perspective NU BSN students – the following online lab courses are not accepted into NU BSN programs (BIO 191A, BIO 192A, BIO 193A).
AREA G: LIFELONG LEARNING AND SELF DEVELOPMENT (Minimum 4.5 quarter units)
AREA A-G: GENERAL EDUCATION (Minimum 4.5 quarter units)
Concentration in Accounting
This concentration introduces students to the foundational principles of accounting, providing insight into the financial language of business. It is ideal for those interested in exploring accounting concepts within a general education framework. Students intending to pursue CPA certification are encouraged to continue into the Bachelor of Science in Accounting program for advanced preparation.
Concentration in Allied Health
The four-course Concentration in Allied Health allows ASGE students to acquire and demonstrate health science proficiency and facilitates an efficient transition to the BS in Allied Health. Students wishing to pursue a concentration should pay careful attention to General Education recommendations and course prerequisites.
Concentration in Applied Data Science
The concentration in Applied Data Science prepares students to turn data into meaningful insights and solutions. The curriculum blends data science principles with practical, ethical AI applications, teaching students how to collect, analyze, and visualize data. By focusing on both technical skills and societal impact, the program ensures students can responsibly address real-world challenges.
Concentration in Computer Science
This concentration provides students with a strong technical and programming foundation early in their academic journey by introducing them to C++, Java, and ethical principles in computing within courses that also satisfy general education requirements. In this way, students build practical computing skills while completing their general education requirements.
This early preparation not only enhances students’ readiness for today’s technology-driven workforce but also creates a seamless pathway into the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science or other technology-related programs such as Information Systems, Data Analytics, Engineering, and Cybersecurity. This ensures a smooth transition into more advanced coursework.
Concentration in Electrical and Computer Engineering
This concentration provides students with core mathematical and scientific competencies essential to electrical and computer engineering. Students complete two rigorous calculus courses that build foundational skills in differentiation, integration, sequences, and series. They also take two calculus-based physics courses, covering mechanics, electricity, magnetism, and fundamental principles that govern engineering systems.
Students completing this specialization will be well-equipped to begin advanced engineering studies, having mastered the mathematical and physical concepts that underpin all branches of Electrical and Computer Engineering.
Concentration in Healthcare Administration
The four-course concentration in Healthcare Administration allows ASGE students to acquire and demonstrate healthcare leadership proficiency and facilitates an efficient transition to the BS in Healthcare Administration. Students wishing to pursue a concentration should pay careful attention to General Education recommendations and course prerequisites.
Concentration in Information Systems
This concentration equips students with the knowledge to navigate the evolving relationship between technology, organizations, and information management. Students gain foundational skills in IT infrastructure and architecture while developing the ethical awareness needed to address contemporary challenges in computing and organizational contexts.
Concentration in Logistics and Supply Chain Management
The four-course Concentration in Logistics and Supply Chain Management allows ASGE students to acquire and demonstrate health science proficiency and facilitates an efficient transition to the BS in Logistics and Supply Chain Management. Students wishing to pursue a concentration should pay careful attention to General Education recommendations and course prerequisites.
Concentration in Manufacturing Design Engineering Technology
This concentration introduces students to the principles of manufacturing design engineering technology through a blend of theory and hands-on experience. Students learn to use math and computer-aided engineering tools and gain an understanding of the physical properties of materials and manufacturing processes used to design, engineer, and manufacture innovative new products and systems.
Concentration in Marketing
This concentration introduces core marketing concepts and prepares students to address challenges in a fast-changing global marketplace. Students develop strategic thinking and adaptability as they explore how technologies like AI and blockchain are transforming the fundamentals of marketing.
Concentration in Mathematics
The four-course concentration in mathematics allows ASGE students to acquire and demonstrate mathematics proficiency and facilitates an efficient transition to the BS in Mathematics. Students wishing to pursue a concentration should pay careful attention to General Education recommendations and course prerequisites.
Concentration in Spanish
Through this concentration, students can improve their Spanish language skills and their marketability in various professions. The coursework focuses on increasing students’ spoken and written fluency and their cultural competency for working with Spanish-speaking populations.
Students can enter directly into the concentration at the 300 Level if they have extensive experience with the Spanish language, either through their personal life or previous studies. Those at the beginner or intermediate level can take prerequisite courses SPN 100, SPN 101, and/or SPN 200 at NU. Placement can be established through prior coursework, testing options as described in the NU catalog, or an oral interview with SoALS faculty.
Program Learning Outcomes
Learn the key skills to help you excel in your field of study.
- Demonstrate skills for self-development that contribute to lifelong learning.
- Demonstrate literacy in written and oral communication.
- Apply information literacy skills in developing research projects and presentations.
- Demonstrate a capacity for responsible citizenship in a diverse society.
- Demonstrate awareness of past and present human and cultural diversity.
- Identify ethical issues raised in different disciplines.
- Demonstrate scientific and quantitative literacy skills in appraising information and solving problems.
- Demonstrate the ability to use the elements of critical thinking to analyze issues, solve problems, and make decisions.
- Demonstrate the ability to work successfully in a team.
- Demonstrate creative thinking in expression or problem solving.
Admissions
Transfer Students Welcome
Enrolling in a university is a big decision. That’s why our dedicated admissions team is here to guide you through the admissions process and help you find the right program for you and your career goals.
To that end, we’ve simplified and streamlined our application process, so you can get enrolled in your program right away. Because we accept and review applications year round, you can begin class as soon as next month, depending on your program and location of choice.
Learn more about undergraduate, graduate, military, plus admissions information for transfer students. You can also learn more about our tuition rates and financial aid opportunities.
To speak with our admissions team, call (855) 355-6288 or request information and an advisor will contact you shortly. If you’re ready to apply, simply start your application today.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
National University is dedicated to making higher education affordable, as well as accessible. Through NU scholarship offerings, eligible students are able to reduce the financial burden of college, start classes sooner, and finish their programs faster while focusing on achieving their goals.
Accreditations
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.
Why National University?
We’re proud to be a Veteran-founded, San Diego-based nonprofit. Since 1971, our mission has been to provide accessible, achievable higher education to adult learners.
Today, we educate students from across the U.S. and around the globe, with over 250,000 alumni worldwide.
“National University has impacted my career. You can immediately apply what you learn in class to your business.”
Francisco R.,
Class of 2016
What makes a degree
with National University unique?
Free Tutoring Sessions
Access personalized tutoring sessions at no cost — empowering your learning.
Online
Flexibility meets quality education with our online learning option.
24/7 Support
Get assistance anytime, anywhere with our round-the-clock support services.
Military Friendly
Committed to serving those who serve — diverse resources and support for veterans and family. Military and Veteran Admissions.
Mentoring Network
Individual student and alumni career guidance, professional development opportunities, and customized career support.
Transfer Students Welcome
NU makes it easy to get your degree, even if you started it with another university. Learn more about transferring to NU.
Accelerate Your Career With NU
At National University, you’re part of a family. As a student, you’ll have the support of staff, faculty members, students, and alumni who will be there with you every step of the way, cheering you on as you pursue your goals.
Our network of 250,000 alumni is a large global community that provides our graduates with the professional connections to get a leg up in your new career.
Frequently Asked Questions
The growing medical services sector is always in need of technicians and assistants with foundational training in the sciences. Your career path could include a variety of nursing, pharmaceutical, radiological, or patient care opportunities, as well as teaching assistant, computer support, or paralegal professions.
General education studies provide essential self-development skills in literacy, math, science, and humanities that form a foundation for lifelong learning. These studies also help prepare students with the fundamentals necessary for more advanced education.
With an emphasis on communication, math, and science, National University’s Associate of Science in General Studies degree prepares you for a lifetime of personal development, greater possibilities for more advanced education, and jobs that require a solid foundation in language and science fundamentals.
Career Opportunities in the General Education Field
- Medical assistants, technicians, therapists, and record specialists
- Computer support specialists
- Preschool teachers and teaching assistants
- Paralegals and legal assistants
Employers of General Education Graduates
- Hospitals, private clinics, and other care providers
- Computer support centers
- Public and private education providers
- Law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies
National University has always been dedicated to meeting the needs of working adult learners. While earning your degree is important to your future, you don’t need to put your life on hold to do so.
The Associate of Science in General Studies degree can be completed 100% online, so you can study when and where it’s most convenient for you. You will engage with faculty weekly and participate in discussions with faculty and classmates on threaded online discussion boards. Quizzes and exams are completed online, and you can submit your papers or homework directly to your professors through the online portal.
Program Disclosure
Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.
Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.
NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.
All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.
National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.
Back to top