Undecided on a major? There's a college for that!

Many students stress about knowing what they want to major in. While some majors, like engineering or business, do require students to apply directly into that program, many colleges don't have that requirement. The good news is that many colleges understand and cater now to the undecided student.

Exploratory Studies is a new trend at some schools, allowing students to, with the help of counselors and mentors, samples classes from different majors and explore career options. Some schools require students to apply directly into that program, while others give students the flexibility of participating in the program after they arrive on campus.

Here are a list of a few schools with programs geared towards undecided students:

University of Colorado Boulder (Program in Exploratory Studies)

"The Program in Exploratory Studies provides the resources and guidance to help you discover and shape your academic and career journey. We offer Advising for students admitted to PES with the goal of helping them achieve their desired major and helping them with their academic journey. PES is designed to help students successfully transfer into their college of choice. We help students who are unsure of what they want to do, decide on a path and help them explore their options. This is a great opportunity for students to have the room to explore majors and find their interests before settling on a major."

Lehigh University (Explore Lehigh)

"Explore Lehigh fosters exploration in a structured, low-pressure environment where you’ll engage with big questions, collaborate with peers and develop essential skills like critical thinking, problem-solving and communication—no matter your intended major(s). Join us to explore your path forward at Lehigh."

Shippensburg University (Exploratory)

"As an Exploratory student you will encounter many opportunities to recognize your true potential. We are here to encourage you to graduate on time while giving you the opportunity to explore a variety of interests to match your passions and skills with a major. The program gives you flexibility to change direction if necessary. Simply put, we are here to help you DISCOVER your major! Being an Exploratory student allows you 1-3 semesters to chart your course towards a major. Entering college in the Exploratory Program doesn’t mean you’ll be here longer; it just means your path to graduation may be a little different, but just as fulfilling! The strong relationships you build at Ship are one of the most vital pieces of your educational experience. Exploratory faculty provide support that promotes student learning and personal development through effective instruction and innovative advisement."

Brown University (Open Curriculum)

"At most universities, students must complete a set of core courses. At Brown, our students develop a personalized course of study — they have greater freedom to study what they choose and the flexibility to discover what they love. Brown’s distinctive approach asks much of students — as the architect of their own education, Brown students are responsible for their own intellectual and creative development. Most undergraduates sample courses in a range of subjects before diving into one of 80-plus academic concentrations for in-depth, focused study."

Northeastern University (Explore)

"As an Explore Program student, you will take the time you need to make informed decisions about your academic and career path as you prepare to choose your major.

With more than 320 majors and combined major programs at Northeastern, starting your journey in the Explore Program is a smart choice. We have many resources to help you test out your academic interests, connect with faculty and students in majors, and explore possible co-op and career paths."

University of Rochester (Exploratory Studies)

"Whether you’re unsure of your major, trying to figure out what you can do with your degree, or discovering the path you thought you were on may no longer be the right one for you—you have come to the right place! Career exploration is about getting curious, talking to people and trying things out to discover the possibilities! This process is ongoing, so whether you’re a first-year student just getting started, a sophomore trying to decide on a major, a junior or senior considering post-grad options, or an alumnus/a looking to change careers, your career development never really ends—so embrace the journey!"

College Hive offers career and major exploration, so if you need a little extra guidance, reach out to us!