Bachelor of Specialized Studies

Program Description

The Bachelor of Specialized Studies (B.S.S.) program allows students to create an individualized, multidisciplinary degree program tailored to their individual interests and needs. In collaboration with faculty partners and a B.S.S. academic advisor, students design an area of concentration that stands as the equivalent of pre-established major.

The B.S.S. is a great fit for students who would like to combine courses from different academic departments to create a unique major and for students who have interests and career goals not met by a current Ohio University major.

Typically, the Bachelor of Specialized Studies degree is not an appropriate degree program for someone who has previously completed a bachelor’s degree. In special circumstances, a person who has completed a prior bachelor’s degree may petition the director of degree programs to seek permission to apply for and complete the B.S.S. degree. Additionally, the B.S.S. program is not an appropriate choice as a second-degree program (double major).

Courses

Specialized Studies students take courses in a wide array of disciplines. Courses specific to the Bachelor of Specialized Studies degree include:

• Internships (up to 15 credit hours)
• Special Projects such as independent study, research, international experience, or conference presentations
• Senior Seminar
  In this seminar, B.S.S. seniors work with faculty members and with classmates to reflect on academic experiences and prepare to launch into life beyond Ohio University.
• Thesis
  Students may choose to work on a research or creative project for their thesis. This optional course is intended for students who plan to graduate with B.S.S. departmental honors. The departmental honors distinction is noted on the student’s diploma.

Opportunities Upon Graduation

By its nature, the Specialized Studies degree is unique to each individual student. Specialized Studies graduates are entrepreneurs, leaders, educators, artists, and more. Our alumni include:

• A FOX Sports national broadcaster

• A president of NASDAQ U.S. markets

• A music industry account coordinator

• The director of a grant-making foundation

• A Federal Aviation Administration project manager

• University professors and college deans

• Chief executive officers

• An HGTV television show host

More information

Find additional information on the Bachelor of Specialized Studies major on the University College website and in the Ohio University Undergraduate Course Catalog.

Contact

University College
740.593.1935
ucdegrees@ohio.edu