General Studies

Please note that as of July 1, 2023, all program information should be accessed through the CT State Community College Catalog.
Specific program information on this page may no longer be accurate beyond this date.
general studies

Overview

The General Studies Associate in Science degree is the most flexible program, designed primarily for those individuals whose special interests may not be accommodated within a Liberal Arts degree program. Students are able to select courses from a wide range of professional programs as well as from the liberal arts and science core courses QVCC. With more open electives and fewer required courses than the Liberal Arts and Sciences degree, the General Studies degree offers greater flexibility for individual interest and needs. This program can also be suitable for transfer to a four-year institution, but more care and guidance in choosing electives will be necessary. Students interested in using the General Studies degree for transfer are advised to check carefully the specific requirements of the institution to which they intend to transfer. With the assistance of an academic advisor, the student may create a program of study suitable either as a foundation to transfer to a four-year college or as preparation for particular self-defined goals.

Program Details/Transfer Information

Eastern, Central, Western and Southern Connecticut State Universities participate in a dual admission program called the Transfer Compact for students who are planning to enroll at a CSCU after completing as associate degree.

In addition, QVCC Liberal Arts students who plan to continue their studies to earn a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts & Sciences, Agriculture & Natural Resources or Business are guaranteed admission to the University of Connecticut once an associate degree is earned.

Also, QVCC holds regional accreditation through the New England Association of Schools and Colleges which allows for portable credit transfer to the college of your choice. Complete transfer information should be verified through the college or university you are interested in.

Finally, QVCC has transfer agreements with other public and private universities and colleges in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. Information can be obtained by contacting the Transfer Coordinator.

See the College Catalog for courses,
prerequisites and additional degree information.

Employment Outlook

A General Studies degree will give a student an advantage when applying for jobs versus an applicant with no degree.  However, the General Studies degree is designed to be a flexible degree program tailored to the needs of the student, as well as a transfer degree for the student looking to transfer to a 4-year school after graduating. It is NOT an occupational degree.

Becoming Connecticut State Community College

STUDENTS: The Community Colleges are undergoing a merger with a plan to become Connecticut State Community College in fall 2023; please work closely with your advisor/program coordinator to select your courses accordingly. Click here for more details about this merger.