Is it okay to start out as an exploratory student?

Yes, it is ok! You can begin your college studies at IU as an exploratory student, then choose your major after exploring all the options, and graduate in four years. By using the resources that are provided by Exploratory Student Resources on this website, and meeting regularly with your University Division Academic Advisor, you can explore, make a good decision about your major, and graduate on time.

What are the advantages of being an exploratory student?

By going through a thorough major exploration and decision-making process, you will maximize the probability that you will make the best decision about your college major. Also, many exploratory students graduate with more breadth in their degrees because they complete double majors or add minors to their major as a result of their exploration. Finally, exploratory students learn how to research options, evaluate alternatives, and make decisions, and this can be a valuable lesson learned in college.

When do I need to choose my major?

The University Division allows you two academic years (56 credit hours) to declare your major. Exploratory Student Resources, however, recommends setting a goal to make your decision by the end of your first year. If you get started on your major exploration in your first semester, it is not difficult to have a good decision made within your first year. While it is great to explore throughout your freshman year, when you are a sophomore and you’re asked that question “What’s your major?” it feels good to have the answer. More important, if you decide to pursue a double major or add minors to your major, you may need to make the decision by the end of the first year so that you and your advisor can plan classes to complete your degree program in four years.

What should I do to get started?

Find out what majors match your interests and begin to learn about IU majors at Search for majors by your interests on this website. Attend a Choosing Your Major Workshop held on campus to get started on your step-by-step process. Schedule an appointment to meet with your University Division Academic Advisor. You can call 855-6768 or send an email message to udivhelp@indiana.edu to ask for contact information for your academic advisor.

What courses can I take while I’m exploring majors?

As an exploratory student at IU, you can have a great schedule of classes that will help you explore majors, keep your options open, and keep you on track to graduate on time. You can take introductory courses in majors you want to explore, general education courses that keep your options open (English composition, math, humanities, social sciences, sciences, etc.), and elective courses (an aerobics or dance class, karate or weight lifting, vocal or guitar lessons, or a study skills class for examples). Your academic advisor will help you choose these courses.

How do I make a good decision about my major?

First, if you make a well-informed and well-thought-out decision about your major, you’ll make a good choice. And you can ensure that you will make a good decision in a timely manner by going through a step-by-step exploration and decision-making process. You can learn what the steps are and how to do them at a Choosing Your Major Workshop conducted on campus by Exploratory Student Resources. After the workshop, meet regularly with your academic advisor for help at each step along the way.

How is my major choice related to my career goals?

Many college freshmen think that they should make their career decision first and then base their major decision primarily on their career goal. There are, however, very few professional careers that require a specific major. It is important to know that there are a few professional career fields that have a licensing requirement or qualifying exam that indicates the need to pursue a specific undergraduate major. But most professional careers do not have any specific requirements, and for all of those careers you have considerable flexibility in your choice of major. Good grades, communication and technical skills, writing and analytical ability, experience and leadership are typically more important than major for professional jobs or graduate school admission.

Should I add minors or certificates to my major?

Yes, and with most majors, you can! Most minors require completion of 15 credits (5 courses) in a field of study. So with just a little careful planning, you can add one or more minors to your major and still graduate in four years. Your assigned academic advisor will help you put together a plan to complete the combination you choose. One advantage of adding minors or certificates to your major is that you can enjoy studying in multiple academic fields. Plus, a degree that includes minors or certificates is a stronger credential for graduate school admission or job application. Finally, minors and certificates will expand your career opportunities.

Where can I get help for choosing my major?

At Indiana University, students can meet with Academic Advisors in the University Division as well as Career Counselors at the IU’s Career Development Center. All of the academic departments have information available for students and every degree-granting school has a career services office. There is a Career Resource Library in the Career Development Center and a Career Reference Collection in the Herman B Wells Library. The Career Reference Collection is also available online. Major and career fairs, events, and programs are scheduled throughout the academic year. Exploratory Student Resources provides Choosing Your Major Workshops and this website. The links on this website lead to academic information, career information, and step-by-step instructions for exploring all the academic options at IU and for choosing your major.