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. 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 should decide on a major by the end of their sophomore year. The academic advisor will encourage undeclared students to begin narrowing down their potential majors by the conclusion of the first year.
Typically, there are two types of incoming first-year students, each with a different suggested first-year course plan.
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 (FNA or HI-1) core course*
TRS 100 Theological Inquiry (TRS-1 core course)*
DSC 201 DISCOVER New Student Seminar*
Two (2) electives to explore majors**
Year One — Spring
EN 102 Composition II (WR core course)*
PH 100 Introduction to Philosophy (PH-1 core course)*
Natural Science (NS) core course with lab*
Introductory Social Science (SS-1) 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-1 core course)*
Introductory Social Science (SS-1) core course*
DSC 201 DISCOVER New Student Seminar*
Year One — Spring
EN 102 Composition II (WR core course)*
PH 100 Introduction to Philosophy (PH-1 core course)*
History (HI-1) or FNA core course*
Introductory Social Science (SS-1) core course*
One (1) elective to explore a major**
* Fulfills Liberal Arts Core/University Requirements. See University Requirements and 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.