Drexel University recently announced the launch of an unusual online degree: the Bachelor of Science in Professional Studies. The new degree teaches students the skills they need to be a "professional" in a number of fields. Here's how their latest press release explains it:

"The B.S. in Professional Studies online program will enable students to acquire expertise in significant areas of contemporary professional life, and is equally relevant in the private, public, and nonprofit sectors. Coursework for the major is constructed around five areas of study - social science (understanding people in a diverse world), critical thinking, creativity, communication, and business. The curriculum is designed to enable students to become professionals in their field of choice, building on their prior education and experience.

The goal of the B.S. in Professional Studies is to expose students to varying aspects of professional life. There is also an emphasis on creativity not often found in other degrees. Students will become acquainted with creativity, theory and practice, learning to apply creative principles to enhance themselves individually, and as an organization."

This is certainly an interesting endeavor. However, I tend to believe that graduates are best suited by holding more specific degrees. When it comes to thriving in a competitive work field, employers want to know their new hires bring specific skills to the table. We'll see how these professional studies grads do outside of the classroom.