The Undeclared Major
When students are uncertain of their choice of major, they may begin their studies as undeclared. Students can take the time for careful reflection and exploration before selecting a major (and depending on the major chosen, there may be an application process). It is recommended that students meet with their academic advisor to discuss their strengths, interests, career goals, and academic goals. Academic advisors can share information on the different degree programs that may fit the student's strengths, interests, and goals, allowing the student to make an informed decision.
Traditionally, a student’s junior and senior years are devoted to taking classes within the major, so undeclared students are encouraged to decide on a major program prior to completing 60 credits. The academic advisor will encourage undeclared students to begin narrowing down their potential majors prior to completing 30 credits.
Students who declare a major must meet the requirements outlined in the university catalog in effect at the time of the declaration of the new major.
Typically, there are two types of incoming undeclared students, each with a different suggested first-year course plan. Students will work with their advisors to create a second-year plan that corresponds with their possible major options.
Undeclared Major Option 1
Students who are open to several possibilities or do not yet have a clear idea about what major to choose should consider this option. The focus will be on taking classes required for the Liberal Arts Core and exploring introductory courses in areas of interest.
Year One — Fall
EN 101 Composition I (WR core course)*
Humanities (FPA or HI) core course*
TRS 100 Theological Inquiry (TRS core course)*
Social Science (SS) core course*
One (1) elective to explore majors**
Year One — Spring
EN 102 Composition II (WR core course)*
Philosophy (PH) core course*
Natural Science (NS) core course with lab*
Humanities (FPA or HI) core course*
One (1) elective to explore a major**
Undeclared Major Option 2
Students who are able to narrow down their choice of major to two or three possibilities, and at least one of those choices is a field that is mathematics- or science-intensive, should choose this option. In addition to taking Liberal Arts Core requirements, these students will take introductory mathematics and science courses. This will give students an opportunity to evaluate their aptitude in these disciplines.
Year One — Fall
EN 101 Composition I (WR core course)*
Mathematics (MT) core course*
Natural Science (NS) core course with lab*
TRS 100 Theological Inquiry (TRS core course)*
One (1) elective to explore majors**
Year One — Spring
EN 102 Composition II (WR core course)*
Philosophy (PH) core course*
Humanities (HI or FPA) core course*
Social Science (SS) core course*
One (1) elective to explore a major**
* Fulfills Liberal Arts Core Requirements. See the Liberal Arts Core and Course Descriptions for further information.
** Electives should be selected from courses in the subject area(s) in which the student is considering a major.