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How to Choose a Major

Here are some of the things you can do to explore possible majors. Some are easier than others. Some may take an hour while others take a semester. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. As an exploratory student, or a student thinking of adding or changing a major, there is someone available to help you through the process.

Whichever path you take to decide your major, you should:

  • Treat the process like one of your jobs or one of your classes (i.e., “This semester I’m taking Foreign Language, Earthquakes, Art History, and Choosing a Major.”)
  • Set specific goals. For example, “By the end of this semester I’ll attend information sessions or meet with department advisors for my top five majors, and try to narrow to three majors.”
  • Work with advisors throughout the process. Advisors can be a good resource during the process. They can help you discover your own interests, help you set goals, and provide a wealth of information too.

In order to choose a major, you’ll need to go through a few steps. You can always change your mind and start over or go back a step whenever you need to. And remember, you may end up choosing two majors or a major and minor. Here are some basic decision-making stages to consider:

  1. Begin Exploring Majors
  2. Engage in Academic and Co-Curricular Opportunities
  3. Reflect, Assess and Make an Initial Decision
  4. Take Action Toward Declaring Your Major