Associate of General Studies
You’ll take courses in the Knowledge Skills Core such as English composition and mathematics as well as specialized sophomore-level courses in select areas across the curriculum. Depending on your interests, you'll choose to take courses in American and western society, environmental science, psychology, philosophy, and more that give you the diverse academic background you need to transfer and succeed at a four-year program.
Learn more about Ivy Bridge’s general studies program:
Request more information about the general studies program or talk to a friendly advisor now at 855-413-4752.
Explore the program:
Knowledge Skills Core
As a student in the Associate of Arts and General Studies program you’ll take courses in the Knowledge Skills Core. This collection of 24 credit-hours includes courses in oral communication, writing composition, mathematics, and computer information systems that provide the academic foundation you need to be successful in any career or academic program.
| Course Number | Course Title | Credit Hour |
|---|---|---|
| COM 241 | Mass Communications (or equivalent) | 3 |
| HIS 111 or 211 | History | 3 |
| ENG 141 | Expository and Research Writing | 3 |
| ENG 142 | Literature and Criticism | 3 |
| CIS 105 or 111 | Intro to Information Technology or Intro to Systems & Applications | 3 |
| MAT 174 or MAT 181 | Finite Mathematics or College Algebra | 3 |
| Two Electives From: | ECO, MGT, POL, PSY, SOC | 6 |
COM 241 - Introduction to Mass Communication (3 hours)
A survey course examining the various media (i.e., newspaper, radio, television, film,
etc.) comprising the mass media in contemporary American society. Emphasis is given to
the history, structure, and potential effects of each medium.
Prerequisite: ENG 141 or concurrent.
MAT 174 - Finite Mathematics (3 hours)
This course applies mathematical techniques to solve real-world problems and involves the study of topics including linear models, systems of equations, financial math, logic, probability, and statistics.
Prerequisite: MAT 173 (“C” or better) or placement.
MAT 181 - College Algebra (3 hours)
The course topics include functions and graphs, polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, matrices, sequences, and counting principles with probability.
Prerequisite: MAT 173 (“C” or better) or placement.
ENG 141 - Expository and Research Writing (3 hours)
This is a course in written communication. Emphasis is placed on development, structure, and writing of abstracts, summaries, and critiques. Literary devices such as pro/con, cause/effect, comparison/contrast, persuasion/argumentation essays and research/synthesis skills are used through a research paper.
ENG 142 - Introduction to Literature and Criticism (w) (3 hours)
This course presents drama, short stories, novel, poetry and critical essays from literary critical perspectives. Through reading, discussion, and critical writing, students become familiar with representative genres in literature as well as authentic critical approaches. This is a writing intensive course.
Prerequisite: ENG 141 or concurrent.
HIS 111 - American Society to 1865 (w) (3 hours)
This survey course focuses on the social, political, religious, economic and cultural experiences of the inhabitants of North America (excluding Canada) from colonization through revolution, to westward expansion and finally the American Civil War. Students learn the historical process, tracing themes through time and noting important connections among them. This is a writing intensive course.
Prerequisite: ENG 141 or concurrent.
HIS 211 - Western Society to 1500 (w) (3 hours)
This survey course focuses on the social, political, religious, economic, and cultural experiences of the inhabitants of the ancient Middle East, through Classical Greece and Rome, to the beginnings of the European nation-state. Students learn the historical process, tracing themes through time and noting important connections among them. This is a writing intensive course.
CIS 105 - Introduction to Information Technology
(3 hours)
Covers the basics of information technology, including common Microsoft Office applications, responsible use of software and technology, file management techniques, and sound information consumption practices. CIS105 is designed for beginners with little or no experience using Microsoft Word, Excel or PowerPoint. Participants are required to demonstrate software proficiency in the lab and through objective written tests.
Note: Students receiving credit for this course are not eligible to enroll in CIS 111..
CIS 111 - Information System & Applications (3 hours)
This course is designed for students who have used MS Word regularly and have an understanding of MS Windows. Topics covered include responsible use of information technology; hardware concepts; the use, development, and maintenance of spreadsheets (Excel); the creation of electronic presentations (PowerPoint); and an introduction to databases (Access). This is a hands-on skills and a conceptual course. Participants will be required to demonstrate software proficiency in the lab, as well as, through objective written tests.
Major Requirements
As a student in the Associate of Arts and General Studies program you’ll take specialized courses in a variety of humanities topics and enjoy the freedom to choose electives in the natural and social sciences that fit your interests.
| Course Number | Course Title | Credit Hour |
|---|---|---|
| CUL 210 or 220 | One cultural studies course | 3 |
| ART 210 or MUS 223 | One fine arts course | 3 |
| HIS 112 or HIS 212 | One history course (continue sequence from core) | 3 |
| ENG Open Elective: | One English 200 level literature course | 3 |
| PHL 110 or PHL 112 | One philosophy course | 3 |
| Two Electives From: | MAT 273, NAT 205, NAT 210, NAT 215, NAT 220 | 6 |
| Two Electives From: | ECO 221, MGT 201, POL 101, POL 205, PSY 101, PSY 263, SOC 101, SOC 250 | 6 | Open Electives: | Three electives 100 level or above | 6 |
Humanities
CUL 210 - Comparative Cultures (3 hours)
Introduces the concept of culture, discusses its role in a society, and explores different manifestations of culture. This course may discuss culture in microcosm or macrocosm.
Prerequisite: ENG 141.
CUL 220 - Religions of the World (3 hours)
Surveys the prominent religions that influence the lives of people around the world.
Prerequisite: ENG 141
ART 210 - Art Appreciation (3 hours)
This foundational art history course introduces students to the vocabulary of the art world, explores methods and processes used in the creation of artistic and culturally significant objects and styles, and addresses the historical and aesthetic importance of art within a multi-cultural context.
Prerequisite: ENG 142
MUS 223 - Music Appreciation (3 hours)
The course focuses on the aesthetics of music, listening skills necessary to fully appreciate music, and the societal and cultural roles that music plays. Various folk and art musical styles will be studied, with attention to their historical evolution and influence on one another.
HIS 112 - American Society since 1865 (3 hours) (w)
This course surveys American History from Reconstruction, through late nineteenth century industrialization, into the development of the nation as a world power by the mid-twentieth century, and culminating in her role during the Cold War and beyond. Students learn the historical process, tracing themes through time and noting important connections among them. Students work with primary and secondary sources to complete at least one written project designed to develop critical thinking skills and reinforce the historical process. History readily lends itself to an interdisciplinary approach; therefore, students should receive a variety of world-views experienced through a number of disciplines. This is a writing intensive course.
Prerequisite: ENG 141
HIS 212 - Western Society since 1500 (3 hours) (w)
This survey course focuses on the social, political, religious, economic, and cultural experiences of Europeans from approximately 1500 to contemporary times. Students learn the historical process, tracing themes through time and noting important connections among them. In addition, they will work with primary and secondary sources to complete at least one written project designed to develop critical thinking skills and reinforce the historical process. History readily lends itself to an interdisciplinary approach; therefore, students should receive a variety of world-views experienced through a number of disciplines. This is a writing intensive course.
Prerequisite: ENG 141
PHL 110 - The Art of Reasoning (3 hours)
This course introduces students to philosophy through a study of the art of reasoning, which is essential in any field or endeavor that requires clear, skillful and critical thinking. Students will learn how to classify concepts, formulate definitions, analyze and evaluate propositions, analyze, construct and evaluate arguments, and identify common fallacies in reasoning. The study is oriented towards practical applications and involves a variety of skills in the analysis and evaluation of reasoning in daily life, scientific inquiries and professional fields.
Prerequisite: ENG 141
PHL 112 - Great Philosophers (3 hours)
This course introduces students to philosophy through a historical study of great philosophers and their representative works. The course study may be a survey of the history of philosophy, or the history of philosophy in a particular culture (e.g., a history of Chinese philosophy), or the history of a particular area in philosophy (e.g., a history of epistemology), or a survey of a particular historical period (e.g., ancient Greek philosophy), or a study of a particular school (e.g., pragmatism) or a study of one philosopher’s work (e.g., Plato).
Prerequisite: ENG 141
Natural Sciences - Two of the Following
MAT 273 - Applied Statistics I
A study in descriptive and inferential statistical methods that aid decision-making. Includes the following topics: probability, probability distributions, calculation of parameters from a universe, calculation of statistics from a sample, hypothesis testing, regression, and correlation. A hand-held calculator with scientific functions is required
Prerequisite: CIS 111 and MAT 174 or above
NAT 205 - Earth Science
An introduction to the basic concepts of earth sciences. Topics to be covered include the structure and composition of earth, physical and chemical processes shaped/ shaping the earth, types and distribution of rocks and minerals, natural resources, and environmental and economic impacts of the earth.
NAT 210 - Oceanography
An introductory course dealing with the basic physical and chemical aspects of oceanography. Topics to be covered include the origin and evolution of oceans, physical, and chemical properties of ocean waters, physical and chemical processes operating in oceans, climate/weather patterns, and the interaction between humans, oceans, and the atmosphere.
NAT 215 - Environmental Science
An introduction to the basic chemical, physical, and geological aspects of environmental sciences. Topics to be covered include ecosystems, physical, chemical, and geological processes involved in shaping the environment, political, economic, and social impacts of the environment, pollution, and the major contemporary environmental issues with examples from Ohio and surrounding states.
NAT 220 - Survey of Health Issues
Health decisions made today are the building blocks for future personal health. This course will assist the student in making personal health decisions by introduction of resources and information pertaining to various health issues, health trends and examination of issues pertinent to the life of today’s college student.
Social Sciences - Two of the Following
ECO 221 - Principles of Macroeconomics
A study of macroeconomics (the “whole” economy), concepts and principles, plus current issues in macroeconomics. Required for business and economics majors.
Prerequisite: MAT 174 or above
MGT 201 - Management of Organizations (w)
This course will provide an overview of the internal workings of an organization. It will survey the functional areas such as finance, marketing, operations, information and decision support systems, and human resources. The course will also examine the nature of the managerial job. This is a writing intensive course.
Prerequisite: ENG 141
POL 101 - Introduction to the American Political Process
A survey course that covers the American democratic process and the distribution of authority and responsibility between the federal, state, and local levels.
POL 205 - The Presidency
The course studies the American presidency from 1787 to the present and examines the history, development, and operation of the U.S. Presidency. Analysis is of the institution of the presidency, its functions, formal and informal relationships, and its limitations within the American political system. Emphasis is on the dynamics of the presidency, including presidential personality, conceptions of role, impact of public opinion, and responses to changes in the environment. Also considered are the evolution of the presidency, its powers and restraints; organizing and using White House staff; executive decision-making; and contemporary views of the office. This is a writing intensive course.
Prerequisite: POL 101
PSY 101 - Intro To Psychology
Introduction to psychology as a behavioral science, including historical background human development (genetic and physical) from birth through death, the senses and perception, intelligence and creativity, and the principles of conditioning, learning memory, and forgetting.
PSY 263 - Theories of Personality
An overview of historical and current theories regarding personality formation and development, and methods of measuring personality characteristics. Psychodynamic, humanistic, behaviorist, trait, and cognitive approaches are discussed.
Prerequisite: PSY 101
SOC 101 - Principles of Sociology
Introduction to the basic concepts of sociological study, elements of social life, socia patterns and institutions, and the process of maintenance and change in society.
SOC 250 - Social Psychology
Study of the influences that people have on the beliefs and behaviors of others. Topics will include social perception and attribution, self-presentation, attitudes and attitude change, aggression and violence, group dynamics, and their relationship to selected fields.
Prerequisite: PSY 101 or SOC 101
Students' Thoughts on the General Studies Program
Are you wondering what students have to say about Ivy Bridge's Associate of Arts in General Studies program? Then check out what some of our current students and graduates have to say about their experiences:
Michelle Ulrich
"When I enrolled with Ivy Bridge, I knew that I wanted to go beyond the associate degree level but I was unsure of the direction I would take for my bachelor’s degree program. So I enrolled as a general studies student, figuring that this would buy me some time to figure out what I wanted to do while still making progress toward my goals. The general studies program, however, served as much more than this.
I chose classes that acted as a sort of “test drive” for potential bachelor’s degree programs. I essentially used my associate degree in as a “sampler platter” of sorts to help me move forward in my education with confidence. By working with everyone who was available to help me, and doing a significant amount of soul-searching, I feel as certain as is possible that I am on a path that will lead to a satisfying and successful career."
Keith DiLauro
"I decided to follow my passion and attend the French Culinary Institute and became a chef in 2002. After returning to New York, I decided to put my entrepreneurial skills back to the test and opened up a catering and private chef business that bloomed overnight. Before long, I was cooking for movie stars, TV celebrities, prominent political leaders, and some of the most affluent and influential people in New York. My business was growing, but my “business sense” was not. I was in over my head. I knew I lacked the business education and academic teachings that would better my understandings of running a growing and successful business.
I started Ivy Bridge in January of 2012, and because Ivy Bridge accepted many of my earlier years’ transferable credits, I will be getting my associate degree in general studies by the end of the fall semester. I plan on using all my new education and academic lessons to build a better business model for my company. I am confident that my new skills will bring in new successes and am excited to continue this journey. Graduating from a culinary school and becoming a chef is something I am very proud of, but furthering my career and going back to school to finish my degree was one of the best decisions I have ever made to better my business and better myself."
Erin Scranton
"One of the main things that drew me to Ivy Bridge College was the reputation of Tiffin University. I knew that any school affiliated with Tiffin would be nothing short of an accredited learning institution that maintained the highest standards for their faculty and students. I started classes in October of 2009 in the general studies program.
One of my favorite things about taking online classes was “meeting” so many other people who had stories that were very similar to my own. I loved reading their opinions on the current and historical topics we learned about in class. And I still remember some of the interesting discussions that I participated in and how they helped change my entire outlook on online courses."
Challie Briihl
"In January 2008 I began my journey with Ivy Bridge College to earn my associate degree in general studies and this past semester (fall 2011) I accomplished my goal! I now have my associate degree and am continuing with Tiffin University’s Degree Completion Program to earn my Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice.
The most rewarding part of attending Ivy Bridge College is that even the smallest achievements are appreciated by the faculty. The professors are wonderful at praising you on the job you are doing and helping you identify and overcome your weaknesses."
Diana Nolen
"My name is Diana Nolen. I live in Galion, Ohio. I am a married mother of four children, ranging in age from 7-17. I graduated from Ivy Bridge in 2010 with an Associates Degree in General Arts with a 3.9 GPA.
I loved the flexibility. Not only that, the professors are so understanding and accommodating. They realize what life is really like. By interacting online in discussions I made new friends. It is amazing how close you can get to someone you have never actually met.
While at Ivy Bridge I found that I am much stronger than I had thought. The accomplishment is a wonderful feeling. I also became a more opinionated and secure individual. I am now completing my bachelor
s degree in professional studies.."
Learn more about Ivy Bridge’s general studies program:
Request more information or talk to a friendly advisor now at 855-413-4752.