We strive to make earning the online Bachelor of Liberal Studies in General Studies degree from Saint Joseph's University accessible for people just like yourself. The following common questions and answers will help you as you begin the journey to complete your bachelor's degree.
What time of year does the program begin?
In order to align with the demanding schedules of today's students, the Bachelor of Liberal Studies in General Studies degree program offers three sessions per year. Request information below for the next start date.
What kind of educational background is required for admission?
The Bachelor of Liberal Studies in General Studies is a degree-completion program, but there is no minimum transfer credit requirement for admission. Students may transfer a maximum equivalent of 25 courses, and must complete a minimum of 10 courses at Saint Joseph’s University. For specific details about admissions requirements based on your specific background, request information below or contact a Program Manager at (610) 660-3400
How many total courses/credits are required?
The Bachelor of Liberal Studies in General Studies online program requires the completion of 40 courses and a minimum of 120 total credit hours. Our requirements have been updated to include for-profit credits (evaluated on a case-by-case basis) and we have added additional options for students who are earlier in their academic careers with limited college credit completed. Please contact your Program Manager for additional information on our changes to the admissions requirements.
What kind of career opportunities can I expect with the Bachelor of Liberal Studies in General Studies?
A bachelor’s degree is required for many jobs these days, even in fields where a high school diploma used to be sufficient. In addition, a bachelor’s degree can result in significantly higher earnings both in the short term and over a lifetime. The Autism Studies concentration offers even more opportunities. For more information, see the Career Outlook page.
How many courses do I take per academic term?
Each student is able to take two courses per semester with flexibility to take additional courses as needed.
Is advising available for all students?
Yes. Each student is providing advising through the PLS Advising Office and you can make a telephone appointment to speak with them whenever you have a question or need assistance.
Do I have to travel to the Saint Joseph’s University campus to take courses in this program?
No. The Bachelor of Liberal Studies in General Studies can be taken fully online.
How and when do I apply?
Applications are reviewed throughout the year. Request information below or contact a Program Manager at (610) 660-3400 for enrollment information.
Autism Studies Concentration FAQs
How many courses do I have to take in the Autism Studies concentration?
The Autism Studies concentration is comprised of ten courses (30 credits), which you will take as part of the requirements for earning your Bachelor of Liberal Studies in General Studies. Go to the Courses page to learn more about the curriculum.
What populations are graduates with this concentration prepared to work with?
The Autism Studies concentration prepares you to work with individuals from pre-school age to seniors, whose diagnoses are across the entire spectrum of autism disorders, including Asperger’s Syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified.
Will I automatically become a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst when I complete the program?
The curriculum for the Saint Joseph’s University’s Autism Studies Concentration meets the educational and experience requirements for the BCaBA certification. For additional information on the eligibility requirements for the BCaBA and the process for seeking certification, please visit the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s website at www.bacb.com
Which BACB Task List is the Autism Studies concentration curriculum aligned to?
It depends on when you first enrolled in the program. For students enrolling in Fall 2018 or later, the ten course coursework sequence has been verified to meet the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst Examination®. Applicants will have to meet additional requirements to qualify. This includes IHS 100, 101, 102, 202, 302, 402, 403, 404, 405, and 406. For students enrolling prior to Fall 2018, the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) has approved an eight-course sequence as meeting the coursework requirement for taking the BCaBA examination. This includes IHS 465, 466, 467, 473, 474, 480, 481, and 482.
Professional Studies Concentration FAQs
How many courses do I take in the Professional Studies concentration?
The Professional Studies concentration is comprised of eight courses, which you will take as part of to the requirements for earning your Bachelor of Liberal Studies in General Studies. Go to the Courses page to learn more about the curriculum.
What can I do with this concentration?
Courses in this concentration focus on developing your skills in organizational development and leadership, which you can apply to any number of fields and careers. All kind of organizations need people who can help motivate employees and foster collaboration.
Are there any practicums required for this option?
No. The Professional Studies concentration can be completed entirely online.
To learn more about the impact a bachelor’s degree or a certificate could have on your life and career, call (610) 660-3400 to speak with a Program Manager or request more information below.
