--- title: "General Studies Associate Degree" url: "/academics/programs/general-studies-associate-degree" type: program date: 2026-07-16 updated: 2026-07-16 --- # General Studies Associate Degree # 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. [ Visit Manhattan University ](/admissions/visit) [ Request Information ](/admissions/undergraduate/request-information) [ Apply to Manhattan University ](/admissions/apply) Credit Hours18 Time to Complete15-week Semester Image ![Manhattan University students in a classroom smiling and talking in front of a laptop](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-06/transfer-students.jpg?h=c6980913&itok=0z_3Z77P) This program is part of [Interdisciplinary Studies](/academics/kakos) The Manhattan University Difference ## What Sets Us Apart The General Studies program at Manhattan University provides tailored academic support for students completing their associate degree, combining **full-time coursework, a cohort-based community, and dedicated tutoring and advising** with the complete campus experience. Students build the foundation to succeed in any major, with guaranteed admission into a bachelor's degree program upon satisfactory completion. Cohort-Based Community Learn alongside a consistent cohort of peers, building the sense of community and belonging that supports success inside and outside the classroom. Tutoring and Advising Dedicated tutors, advisors, and program faculty guide your progress, helping you stay organized, meet deadlines, and seek support whenever needed. On-Campus Residence Choose to live on campus and immerse yourself in the Manhattan University community from the very start of your first semester. Complete Student Life Enjoy sporting events, recreational activities, health and wellness services, and every other part of the full Manhattan University experience. Guaranteed Admission Satisfactory completion of the program guarantees your admission into any major at Manhattan University as you begin your bachelor's degree. General Education Core Enroll full time in general education courses that build the academic foundation you will need to thrive in any bachelor's program. Image ![Manhattan University student focusing during a lecture](/sites/default/files/styles/square_400/public/media/2026-05/students-classroom-3200x1800.jpg?h=f0fb51a5&itok=rA_WlwSy) 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. Image ![Manhattan University student focusing during a lecture](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-05/students-classroom-3200x1800.jpg?h=f0fb51a5&itok=A1PqZBJC) Image ![Manhattan University students and professor outside for a class lecture.](/sites/default/files/styles/square_400/public/media/2026-06/students-outside-classroom-professor-3000x2000.jpg?h=c6980913&itok=7HtZ1ymt) 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. Image ![Manhattan University students and professor outside for a class lecture.](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-06/students-outside-classroom-professor-3000x2000.jpg?h=c6980913&itok=tqhCoP_k) Image ![Aerial photo of New York City](/sites/default/files/styles/square_400/public/media/2026-03/nyc-3200x1800.jpg?h=f0fb51a5&itok=aPR2TTA5) ## 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. Image ![Aerial photo of New York City](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/nyc-3200x1800.jpg?h=f0fb51a5&itok=p09sBu3Y) Image ![Students studying in the college of Engineering building](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/students-2025-3200x2100.jpg?h=fcf25457&itok=3dwQWYnj) 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. [ Explore Bachelor's Degree Programs ](/academics/programs/undergraduate) Image ![Students studying in the college of Engineering building](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/students-2025-3200x2100.jpg?h=fcf25457&itok=3dwQWYnj) Image ![Manhattan University students sitting on a bench outside talking](/sites/default/files/styles/original_aspect_ratio_400/public/media/2026-06/students-outside-bench-kakos.jpg?itok=_FCkEF49) 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. [ Explore Kakos School of Arts and Sciences ](/academics/kakos) Image ![Manhattan University students sitting on a bench outside talking](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-06/students-outside-bench-kakos.jpg?h=c6980913&itok=mTaC6uLo) ## 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. [Learn More About Costs and Financial Aid](/admissions/financial-aid/) Image ![Manhattan University Admission counselors and students smiling during an open house event](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/3000x2000-admissions-open-house-2025.jpg?h=1cb48fc4&itok=37la0IHA) 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. [ Learn More About the Jasper Guarantee ](/admissions/undergraduate/jasper-guarantee) Image ![Manhattan University Admission counselors and students smiling during an open house event](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/3000x2000-admissions-open-house-2025.jpg?h=1cb48fc4&itok=37la0IHA) ## 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 ### 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](/admissions/financial-aid/) ### International Students: Support available for visas, documentation, and English-language assessments. [Learn More about International Financial Aid](/admissions/international/financial-aid/) Image ![Aerial photo of Manhattan University](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/drone-2025-3200x2400.jpg?h=9b8bd6ff&itok=xYR2ar43) ## 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. [Visit Manhattan University](/admissions/visit) [Apply Today](/admissions/apply) [Request Information](/admissions/request-information) Image ![Aerial photo of Manhattan University](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/drone-2025-3200x2400.jpg?h=9b8bd6ff&itok=xYR2ar43)