Undecided About Your Major? That's OK.

Why It Makes Sense to be Undeclared

  • You are just starting college and there are many choices
  • You think there are several majors you might like
  • You don't know enough about the majors to make a choice yet
  • You're not sure what your real interests and strengths are
  • You want to try several subjects just to learn more about them
  • You're worried about choosing the "wrong" major
  • You don't know what job opportunities each major offers

Advantages

  • You can explore widely. This is the essence of your liberal arts degree.
  • You can choose courses that will apply either to your future major or to your Core requirements You will work closely with full-time Academic Advisors who will help you choose courses that fit your needs, interests, and strengths.
  • You will become familiar with support offered by faculty, Career Services, Academic Advisement, and others across campus.

Getting to the Declaration of Your Major

  • It is not a permanent contract. The declaration is a formal plan that can be changed. It does not determine your life or your career.
  • If you have already taken courses in the subject, it will be easier for you to declare your major.
  • Your choice of major should be based on your strengths and interests because you will do better academically.
  • The formal declaration of your major can wait until the end of your sophomore year if you choose courses carefully. Some programs should be selected earlier. Academic Advisors will work closely with you to help you make wise choices.

Outcomes

  • You will declare and complete a major for your degree.
  • You are more likely to be successful because you are happy with your choice.
  • Even though you were undecided when you started college, you will take pride in your accomplishments in the major you choose.
Student sitting in the RIC
Preparing for Change

College is about learning and growing and discovering what’s right for you.