Top 7 Free Online General Studies Degrees 2025

Many options are available for students to earn free online degrees in general studies through schools that offer financial accessibility, in addition to their high-quality online programs. Tuition-free online colleges either don't charge a tuition fee or offer programs to fully cover tuition costs � which can help students greatly reduce their costs, though there may be other fees involved.

Each of these accredited offerings provides quality education while maintaining accessible tuition options, extensive financial aid packages, and tuition assistance programs.

Free Online General Studies Degree Programs

By enrolling in one of these no-cost or affordable online general studies degree programs, students can pursue higher education without taking on large amounts of student debt.

1. University of the People

University of the People delivers tuition-free, fully online associate and bachelor's degree programs in fields like business administration, computer science, and health science. While UoPeople does not have a specific general studies program, its degrees provide a solid, interdisciplinary foundation adaptable to many career paths. The university doesn't charge for tuition but requires minimal fees, such as a $60 application fee and $140 for course assessment fees.

Scholarships are also available to cover these fees, making this online college one of the most accessible options for learners worldwide. Students can enroll in courses and complete their degrees at their own pace, benefiting from a global education community. This model is ideal for individuals balancing school and other commitments, such as work or family.

2. Barclay College

Barclay College offers an Associate of Arts in general studies that emphasizes a broad academic curriculum grounded in liberal arts and social sciences. The program integrates critical thinking, humanities, and general education courses to prepare students for diverse career goals or further studies.

On-campus students receive full-tuition scholarships, making higher education affordable. Online classes are also reasonably priced, and various forms of student aid are available to support both traditional and distance learners.

3. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) provides its OpenCourseWare (OCW) platform, which offers free access to extensive course materials, including subjects like behavioral science, natural sciences, and political science. Although these courses don't lead to a formal degree, they allow students to explore college-level coursework, building a self-paced interdisciplinary education.

OCW is ideal for students wanting to supplement their education, explore career paths before committing to a degree program, or enhance their understanding of subjects like methodology or health science.

4. Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University features an exploratory general studies major for students who are undecided about their academic or career goals. The structured curriculum exposes learners to various disciplines, such as natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities, while they determine their future path.

For in-state students, the Aggie Assurance program covers tuition costs for Texas residents with family incomes under $60,000. This makes Texas A&M a financially accessible state university for students exploring multiple fields before committing to a bachelor's degree program.

5. Berea College

Berea College offers a comprehensive general studies curriculum that focuses on liberal arts education. The interdisciplinary approach includes coursework across humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, developing students' critical thinking and communication skills.

Berea's Tuition Promise Scholarship covers full tuition, ensuring that all students graduate debt-free. The college emphasizes affordability, allowing learners to earn a high-quality undergraduate degree without financial barriers.

6. Arizona State University

Arizona State University provides a customizable Bachelor of General Studies degree. The program's interdisciplinary coursework spans subjects like healthcare, business administration, and human resources, offering flexibility to align with students' career goals.

ASU's College Attainment Grant covers full tuition for eligible Arizona residents based on income. This financial aid program, combined with opportunities to transfer credits and options for part-time or full-time enrollment, makes ASU an attractive choice for those pursuing a general studies degree.

7. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) offers an online Bachelor of Arts in General Studies tailored for students looking to create a personalized curriculum. The degree program allows for electives in fields such as criminal justice, healthcare, and business administration, catering to a wide range of career paths.

While SNHU is not tuition-free, it offers substantial financial aid and scholarships to reduce tuition costs. The school's online education format is designed for students who need to balance their studies with other responsibilities, whether they attend part-time or full-time.

FAQs About Online General Studies Programs

Can You Get a Degree Online for Free?

Yes, several American institutions, like the University of the People and Berea College, offer tuition-free programs. Others, such as Texas A&M and Arizona State University, provide comprehensive financial aid packages and programs to significantly lower tuition costs for eligible students.

Is a Degree in General Studies Worth It?

A bachelor's degree in general studies is a versatile option, offering skills in critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving. Graduates can pursue careers in fields like business, healthcare, human resources, and behavioral science or use the degree as the first step toward earning a master's degree.

What Jobs Can You Get with an Online Degree in General Studies?

General studies degree graduates can work in roles such as administrative coordinator, project manager, human resources specialist, or healthcare administrator. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics highlights these positions as having strong growth potential, especially for those with the adaptable and transferable skills that a general studies degree provides.

Explore Online Bachelor's Degrees and Enroll Today

If you are ready to pursue a low to no-cost education or are still deciding which free degree to earn, look into the other options available on Learn.org. With options ranging from tuition-free degrees to low-cost customizable learning paths, you can find a program that aligns with your academic and career goals, without needing to take out student loans.