Prospective Students

What is Exploratory?

The word "exploratory" is used to describe a student who has yet to declare a major in a baccalaureate program. In the past, the term that was used to describe such students was "undecided," which is somewhat misleading. The term "exploratory" truly captures the essence of those students who want to explore their many options for a baccalaureate program.

Types of Exploratory Students

  • Students who are interested in learning more about the 125+ majors offered at UC.
  • Students who are interested in a few areas but want to take time to confirm their best-fit major.
  • Students who have decided on a major but have not yet met the admission requirements.
  • Students who originally had a declared major but want to switch to Exploratory Studies to search for a new major.

Quick Facts About Major Selection

  • Exploratory Studies is the largest major at UC and across the country.
  • 80% of college-bound students are undecided about their major selection.
  • 50% of college-bound students with declared majors, switch majors--many do so 2-3 times during their college career.
  • Up to 75% of all college students change their major at least once.
  • Most students who take advantage of our services originally declared a major and then determined that it was the wrong fit.

How Exploratory Studies Works

  • As an exploratory student you will be assigned to one of the 7 professional advisors in CES.
  • Your advisor will help you choose classes based on which type of exploratory student you are (see types above).
  • Depending on your personal needs, an individualized advising plan will be created which may include the following services:
    • Academic Advising with Specialized Course Planning
    • "Discovering UC" Exploratory CourseĀ 
    • Guidance on gaining acceptance into another UC College
    • Personalized Assessments (to evaluate personal values, interests, abilities, and preferences)
    • Faculty and Staff Interactions
    • Experiential and Service Learning Opportunities
    • First Year Experinces and Learning Communities
  • Our goal is to empower you to choose your best-fit major or gain admission to your academic program of choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Check out our most Frequently Asked Questions about Exploratory Studies.

Have a certain program in mind? Want to know how to get there?