B.A. in General Studies

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fee: $50

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 73 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 49 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 100.

Western Illinois University (WIU) offers several scholarships to international students to assist them in financing their education. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, talents, leadership, and other criteria. 

Presidential Scholarships: These scholarships are among the most prestigious at WIU and are awarded to academically exceptional students. They cover a significant portion of tuition costs and are renewable for up to eight semesters.

International Commitment Scholarships: WIU offers a range of international commitment scholarships to incoming international undergraduate students. These scholarships are based on academic merit and are available at varying levels of funding.

International Transfer Scholarships: Transfer students from international institutions can apply for transfer scholarships to help fund their education at WIU. The scholarship amounts may vary based on academic achievement.

Global Excellence Scholarships: These scholarships are designed to recognize and support outstanding international students. They are awarded based on academic performance, leadership, and community involvement.

International Peace Scholarship: WIU offers this scholarship to female international students who have a strong commitment to international understanding and peace. It's part of the P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship Fund.

College and Departmental Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within WIU offer scholarships to international students pursuing specific fields of study. Eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary by department.

Foundation Scholarships: WIU's Foundation administers a wide range of scholarships, some of which are available to international students. These scholarships are often based on specific majors or criteria defined by donors.

External Scholarships: International students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities, both in their home countries and through international organizations, to help finance their education at WIU.

Fulbright Scholar Program: While not directly administered by WIU, international students can apply for the prestigious Fulbright Scholar Program, which provides funding for academic and cultural exchange opportunities in the United States.

To apply for scholarships at WIU, international students typically need to submit an application for admission and a separate scholarship application, if required. Deadlines and eligibility criteria can vary.

Graduates with a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in General Studies from Western Illinois University (WIU) in Macomb have a wide array of career opportunities due to the program's flexible and interdisciplinary nature. The B.A. in General Studies equips students with a broad-based education that can be applied to various professional fields.

Administrative and Management Roles: The broad skill set acquired through the General Studies program prepares graduates for administrative and management positions in various sectors. They can work as office managers, project coordinators, or executive assistants, where their organizational and communication skills are highly valued.

Human Resources Specialist: Graduates can pursue careers in human resources, where they manage recruitment, employee relations, and organizational development. The program's focus on diverse subjects helps them understand different aspects of business and personnel management.

Sales and Marketing: The versatility of a General Studies degree is beneficial in sales and marketing roles. Graduates can work as sales representatives, marketing coordinators, or account managers, leveraging their broad knowledge to understand consumer behavior and market trends.

Public Relations and Communications: With strong communication skills developed through the program, graduates can pursue careers in public relations, media relations, or corporate communications. They can work as public relations specialists, media coordinators, or communication managers, helping organizations manage their public image.

Non-Profit Sector: Graduates may find opportunities in the non-profit sector, working as program coordinators, development officers, or outreach specialists. The interdisciplinary approach of the General Studies program helps them address various challenges faced by non-profit organizations.

Education and Training: The General Studies degree provides a foundation for careers in education and training. Graduates can work as educational coordinators, training specialists, or curriculum developers, applying their diverse knowledge to educational settings.

Entrepreneurship: The flexibility of the General Studies program allows graduates to pursue entrepreneurial ventures. They can start their own businesses or consult in various industries, using their broad understanding of multiple fields to drive innovation and success.

Graduate Studies: The B.A. in General Studies also prepares graduates for advanced studies in fields such as business administration, public administration, or social sciences. This further education can open doors to specialized careers and leadership roles.