Overview

About the Program

General Studies provides a flexible program of study grounded in Niagara Universities liberal arts curriculum.  It is intended for students who wish to complete a two year Associate in Arts (A.A) degree, explore major or career options, or continue on to a bachelor's program. 

Students enrolled in General Studies select from the same courses available to all NU students.  The program aims to provide students with an integrated course of study in the liberal arts which introduces students to a specific body of knowledge, stimulates a student's intellectual curiosity, and encourages future study.

Individual schedules are tailor made with your advisor to explore your academic and career interests.   A general outline of the courses required can be found on the curriculum page .  Additionally a PDF copy of the Curriculum Card can be found here.

Students who wish to pursue a four year degree after finishing their associate degree, can easily continue on at Niagara University for a Bachelor's degree.  As students figure out their interests, the curriculum can be adjusted to assist the transition to a specific major.

Students who wish to continue to explore an individually designed curriculum can take advantage of the new Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Arts and Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies programs.

Advisor

If you have any questions regarding the program, please feel free to contact me.  As both the advisor to the program and the Assistant to the Dean for Academic Affairs, I have over 8 years of experience working closely with interdisciplinary students and have a strong understanding of Niagara University's programs, policies, and support services.

John P. Sauter, Jr.

General Studies Advisor

      & Assistant to the Dean for Academic Affairs

College of Arts & Sciences Dean's Office,

Dunleavy Hall, 3rd Floor

Niagara University, NY 14109-2026

Telephone - (716) 286-8062

Email - jps@niagara.edu

Student Recognition

Outstanding Academic Achievement Awards

These awards are given out at the Annual Arts & Sciences Day of Recognition to students who have achieved excellence in their academic achievement within the program.

2007 - Andrea Scharf

2006 - Carol Lea Gilbert

2005 - Jackie Freeman

 

Student Comments & Experiences

The following are comments from former students and graduates of the program, taken directly from the General Studies Exit Survey.

Recent Student Experiences:

"My experience in General Studies was very positive.  I was able to bring my GPA up to a satisfactory and passing level.  I received helpful information from my advisor, John Sauter, about classes and possible careers in my major(s)."

     - 2007 student now pursuing a Double Major/BS degree at NU

"The experience in General Studies was positive, because my advisor helped map out a plan to get my GPA up. "

     - 2007 student now pursuing a BA degree at NU

"I had a very positive experience overall.  I think I was advised very well and did a lot better"

     - 2007 student now pursuing a BA degree at NU

"Very positive. The Gen. Studies staff was extremely helpful.  I am grateful for all their help and advice"

    - 2007 student now pursuing a BA degree at NU.

"It was positive.  I got all the general courses I needed out of the way to continue with course I would like to take in the future"

     - 2007 student who transfefred to another degree program.

"My experience in General Studies was very positive.  It gave me the opportunity to satisfy the general ed requirements and take the necessary classes needed to continue my studies"

     - 2006 Graduate now pursuing a B.A. degree at NU.

"The experience [in General Studies] was positive because my advisor helped guide me in the right direction.  Someone else had confidence in me besides myself."

     - Former Student

How the program helped students toward their academic/career/personal goals.

"The information I received showed me many options for a career using my major(s).  Mr. Sauter also helped me academically by assisting in and approving my class schedules.  I received much support an encouragement personally from the general studies program."

     - 2007 student now pursuing a Double Major/BS degree at NU

"It helped me a lot because last semester I had a 3.0 GPA."

     - 2007 student now pursuing a BA degree at NU

"I know where I want to be and I took the courses that I needed. "

     - 2007 student now pursuing a BA degree at NU

"It helped shape my future towards my university career."

    - Spring 2007 student now pursuing a BA degree at NU.

"I am not able to focus on my intended major."

     - 2007 student who transferred to another degree program.