Exploring Majors

Selecting a major will be one step in your college careers. Before you begin your exploration, review these myths:

Myth: One major leads to one career.
Reality: Choosing a major in an important decision, however, major does not equate to career! Your college major does not prepare you for one single, specific job. Instead, it seeks to develop your skills and aptitudes so that you can apply them in a broad variety of careers.

Myth: I must stay with one major once I make my decision.
Reality: The majority of college students change their major at least once and many change their minds several times over the course of their college education.

Myth: There is only one major right major for me.
Reality: There are most likely a number of majors in which you could succeed. Selecting a major that fits your interests, skills and values and then combining this with leadership, internship and extracurricular activities is the best strategy to prepare for success.

STEPS TO BEGIN EXPLORING MAJORS
Learn about Majors - You can research typical career paths and related web links through the What Can I Do With A Major In website.

Read about Majors and Course Requirements - Review the departmental home pages for the majors you are considering to learn about the focus of the major and courses required.

Talk with Faculty in Major/Department - Faculty are a valuable resource for gaining information on major and field. Contact Career Services or Academic Advisement for assistance in finding an appropriate faculty contact.

"First Step Program" - is offered each fall as an opportunity for first year students to connect with faculty in their intended major and for undecided students to gather information on a variety of majors.

Take Entry Level Courses To Explore: Taking a survey or introduction course in the major can help you learn about a major and your interest in this area. Talk with Academic Advisement for recommendations or review the exploration courses suggested by each School.