General Studies Mission

The purpose of the Walla Walla University general studies program is to provide a balanced education that supports the institution's core themes: excellence in thought, generosity in service, beauty in expression, and faith in God. The general studies curriculum is broad in scope, covering major intellectual or aesthetic ideas or methods across various disciplines. Students completing the general studies program at Walla Walla University will be able to:

  • Demonstrate critical and reflective thinking
  • Exhibit logical and quantitative reasoning
  • Communicate effectively and responsibly
  • Articulate a Christian worldview

In addition to providing breadth of knowledge and the development of skills for greater depth of study, the general studies program seeks to prepare students for “responsible citizenship, generous service, a deep respect for the beauty in God’s creation, and the promise of re-creation through Jesus Christ.” (WWU mission)

Outline of General Studies Requirements:

Bachelor of Arts Degree 84 quarter hours
(including foreign language)
Bachelor of Business Administration Degree 72 quarter hours
Bachelor of Education Degree 72 quarter hours
Bachelor of Liberal Studies 72 quarter hours
Bachelor of Music Degree *
Bachelor of Science Degree 72 quarter hours
Bachelor of Science in Engineering Degree *
Bachelor of Social Work Degree 72 quarter hours
Associate of Science Degree 32 quarter hours

* These degrees have modified general studies requirements. Please refer to the respective departments of instruction in this bulletin.

Students must meet the minimum overall general studies credit requirement for their degree; however, they may be one credit short in any one general studies category except Math and Physical Education. 

For the Honors General Studies Program, see the Honors General Studies section of this bulletin.