Bachelor of Arts in Individualized Studies (BAIS) Guide

The BAIS at FDU is a flexible, interdisciplinary course of study that’s a perfect fit for many of our students. Use the table below to learn… Which BAIS program is right for you?


If this is your preparation…

And this is your goal…

Then this is your program…

Completed study at a Yeshiva or Seminary, may have transfer-eligible credits

Earn a bachelor’s degree that recognizes prior study, with the flexibility to focus on career-related areas (business, psychology, healthcare, etc.)

BAIS-Yeshiva and Seminary Programs:

Bachelor of Arts in Individualized Studies (BAIS) – transfer up to 90 credits (including religious studies evaluated for transfer credit); in-person and fully online courses available

Currently work or have worked in Law Enforcement, Fire Department, or other Emergency Services

Advance in rank, transition into leadership or administrative roles, or prepare for a second career

Public and Emergency Services Degree Completion:

Transfer up to 90 credits (including professional / military training evaluated for transfer credit); in-person and fully online courses offer flexibility for working professionals. Specializations in Business, Psychology, and Public Administration; pathways into graduate programs 

Employee of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC)

Use the tuition benefit agreement to complete an associate or bachelor’s degree for promotion and career advancement

NJ MVC Educational Partnership Program:

AA/BAIS – MVC covers tuition for 2 courses (6 credits) per year; flexible online schedule supports working professionals; an in-person course is offered at Trenton MVC Office in the Fall and Spring semesters

Earned some college credits but stopped out without earning a degree or other credential

Return to finish your degree quickly without starting over; maximize transfer credits and prior learning

Associate of Arts (AA) & Bachelor of Arts in Individualized Studies (BAIS):

AA – accepts up to 36 transfer credits. Only 60 credits to complete and everything rolls into the BAIS program. BAIS – accepts up to 90 transfer credits; prior learning/portfolio assessment available; degree can be completed in as little as 18 months; pathways into graduate programs

Veteran or Active Military

Translate military training/experience into academic credit; prepare for civilian career advancement

Associate of Arts (AA) & Bachelor of Arts in Individualized Studies (BAIS):

Military/professional training evaluated for transfer credit; veterans benefits and aid available; online and off-site course options; Pathways into graduate programs

Spanish speaking adult, may have earned some transfer-eligible credits from another institution

Learn English while earning a bachelor’s degree; transfer prior credits earned; focus on career-related areas (such as business, psychology, communication, etc.)

Gateway to the Future / Puerta Al Futuro Program:

Bachelor of Arts in Individualized Studies (BAIS) – accepts up to 63 transfer credits; learn English through ESL courses and progressive Spanish to English coursework; mostly online courses; pathways into graduate programs

Completed high school; have an interest in history, government, law, sociology, or environmental studies

Earn a bachelor’s degree with a flexible curriculum and develop expertise in the social sciences; prepare for a career in government, law, or social science research

Bachelor of Arts in Individualized Studies (BAIS) with Concentrations in Social Sciences:

Offers a flexible curriculum with 18-credit concentrations in History and Politics, Health and Society, Environmental Studies, and Hispanic Studies

Completed high school; a Canadian and International Student seeking to enroll at the University’s Vancouver campus

Earn a bachelor’s degree through a program that empowers students to tailor their education to align with their unique career aspirations and interests.

Bachelor of Arts in Individualized Studies at Vancouver:

Offers a flexible curriculum with concentrations in Applied Technology, Business, Communications, Hospitality & Tourism Management, Humanities, and International Relations
Contact Information
Questions? Contact Lifelong Learning
lifelonglearning@fdu.edu
201-692-7310