How to Get a Degree Without General Education Courses
General education courses are designed to measure one's aptitude in such basic subjects as mathematics, English, science and history. Most colleges require general education courses before a student is able to enroll in the courses specific to their major. Learning how to get a degree without general education courses is possible if certain requirements are met.
- Life Experience. Time spent in the armed forces, training you have received in a particular skill and the basic knowledge that has been gathered throughout your life may be adequate in allowing you to get a degree without taking general education courses. Life experience can often be counted as general education credits because many schools understand that there is much wisdom to be gained through overcoming the many obstacles that life presents. If you have a general understanding of a wide breadth of topics you may qualify for life experience credits and be allowed to bypass taking general education courses. Talking with an advisor at your desired school can help determine your eligibility for this concession.
- CLEP Examinations. The College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) administers tests each year that allow students to sidestep general education courses. Passing one or more of these rigorous tests that are available in over 30 subject areas can put you on the fast track to obtaining your degree without general education courses. Visit their website at clep.collegeboard.org to review practice tests and to schedule an examination at a CLEP testing facility in your area.
- Test Out. Another little-known way to avoid general education courses is to "test out." Many colleges and universities allow professors to develop comprehensive tests that cover the material they plan to teach in any given semester. Students who pass these tests are given credit for the entire course. Locate the professors at your school who teach the general education courses you need for your degree to find out if this is an option for you.