General Studies Associate Degree
Build the academic foundation to succeed in any major at Manhattan University.
The General Studies program gives you the time, tools, and guidance to strengthen your skills before beginning your bachelor's degree. Study full time in a supportive cohort, live on campus, and experience everything Manhattan University has to offer. Graduate with guaranteed admission into any major upon satisfactory completion.
This program is part of Interdisciplinary Studies
The Manhattan Advantage
Why a General Studies Associates Degree at Manhattan University?
This program is designed for students interested in any major who want more academic preparation before beginning a bachelor's degree, without giving up the benefits of the full Manhattan University campus experience. Whether you're exploring your interests or strengthening your foundation, General Studies gives you the time, tools, and guidance to succeed, supported by dedicated advisors, tutors, and program faculty every step of the way.
Academics
What You Will Learn
Manhattan University's Associate Degree in General Studies provides the time, space, and support to build confidence in the classroom and gain the academic foundation you'll need to thrive in any major. As you complete the program's requirements, you'll also learn how to:
- Strengthen your academic writing and communication
- Stay organized, manage your time, and meet deadlines
- Work collaboratively within a supportive cohort
- Ask thoughtful questions and seek help when needed
- Prepare for a seamless transfer into your bachelor's degree program
You'll do all this with the guidance of dedicated advisors, tutors, and our program faculty. When it's time to move forward, this program will have you ready for what's next.
My journey as a Jasper started with an Associate Degree program at Manhattan University out of high school. The support I received and the sense of community the program offered me allowed me to transfer into the Social and Behavioral Sciences department, where I earned my bachelor's in Psychology and finalized my master's degree in mental health counseling."
Yureyce Candelario
Class of '23, '25
Why Study in New York City
Manhattan University's campus in Riverdale offers the best of both worlds: a close-knit residential community near the heart of New York City, just a 30-minute subway ride from midtown Manhattan. For General Studies students, that means room to focus and grow, backed by everything the city has to offer. Explore museums, neighborhoods, internships, and cultural experiences across the five boroughs while you discover where your academic interests will take you. As you prepare to choose a major, few places offer more ways to test your curiosity than New York City, and few campuses make it easier to come home to a supportive community at the end of the day.
Your Next Step
Your Path Forward
The Associate Degree in General Studies follows a 15-week semester in which students benefit from tutoring, study groups, transfer advising, and academic counseling designed to help them succeed at Manhattan University and ensure a smooth transition into a bachelor's degree. Upon successfully completing your associate degree, you are guaranteed admission into any major at Manhattan University, ready to continue your Jasper journey without missing a step.
About
The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences
The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences is the largest of Manhattan University's three schools, offering 33 undergraduate majors, six graduate programs, and six combined degrees across the humanities, natural and social sciences, and professional fields. Grounded in the University's Lasallian Catholic mission and located near the heart of New York City, the School pairs rigorous academics with small classes, close faculty mentorship, and real-world experience throughout the five boroughs and beyond. With strong pre-law and pre-health advising and a focus on ethical, engaged scholarship, Kakos graduates leave prepared to lead, and the University ranks in the top 3% nationally for salary impact (Wall Street Journal, 2026), evidence of where that preparation leads.
Program Costs & Financial Aid
Manhattan University is committed to making a high-quality, career-focused education accessible and affordable. Through a combination of competitive tuition, robust financial aid, and our Jasper Guarantee, students and families can plan their education with confidence. The Jasper Guarantee locks your tuition rate for all four years—ensuring financial stability and eliminating unexpected increases as you work toward your degree.
More than 90% of Manhattan University students receive some form of financial assistance, including merit scholarships, grants, and need-based aid, significantly reducing the overall cost of attendance.
- Tuition & Fees: View current undergraduate rates
- Financial Aid: 90%+ of students receive aid
- Scholarships: Multiple merit- and need-based opportunities
- Jasper Guarantee: Your tuition rate is locked for all four years
A Manhattan University education is an investment in your future, and we are dedicated to helping you access the resources that make it possible.
A Smarter Investment in Your Future
Jasper Guarantee
At Manhattan University, every undergraduate student is protected by the Jasper Guarantee, which locks your tuition rate for all four years—ensuring clarity, stability, and peace of mind as you plan your education. This promise reflects our commitment to affordability and to supporting students and families throughout their academic journey.
Admissions Information for Manhattan University
Start Your Journey to Manhattan University
Applying to Manhattan University is designed to be clear and accessible. Review the requirements below to take the next step toward your degree.
General Studies Admission Information
If you're interested in General Studies and you have questions, please contact:
Yureyce Candelario
Program Manager
ycandelario01@manhattan.edu
General Admission Information for a Bachelor's Degree
Requirements:
- Application & transcript
- SAT/ACT optional
- Personal statement
- Letter(s) of recommendation
Deadlines:
- Early Action: November 15
- Regular Decision: February 1
Admission and Application Process
International Students:
Support available for visas, documentation, and English-language assessments.
Prepare for the Real World
At Manhattan University, your education is built around who you are and where you want to go. Whether you’re ready to apply or just starting to explore, take the next step when you’re ready — we’re here to help.