Frequently Asked Questions

How Will CES Help Me?

  • The Center for Exploratory Studies is committed to empowering students to choose their best-fit majors through highly personalized exploratory advising and innovative academic programming.  As an exploratory student you will be assigned to one of the 7 professional advisors in CES.  You will meet one-on-one with your exploratory advisor to determine which services and steps will best serve your specific academic needs and goals.  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 Course
    • 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 Experiences and Learning communities

Who Can See An Exploratory Advisor?

  • Any current undergraduate student at the University of Cincinnati may meet with an exploratory advisor. If a student is already enrolled in the exploratory studies program, then the student should already have an assigned exploratory advisor. If a student is not enrolled in exploratory studies, then he/she may meet with the next available advisor to determine whether he/she should declare exploratory studies as his/her program of choice.

When and How Do I Get Started on Major Selection Advising?

  • Students may begin their major selection advising at any time after accepting and confirming admission to the University of Cincinnati. If a student is unsure of his/her assigned advisor, he/she may call us at (513) 556-6540 or check on Starfish via Blackboard. Students may schedule an appointment by phone or Starfish. See "Contact Us" section for more details. Please be aware that advisor availability during the summer is limited due to participation in the Bearcat Bound Orientation sessions.

What Classes Do I Register For and How?

  • Students will meet with their assigned advisor to determine which courses will benefit them most in their major exploration process. All freshman exploratory students are required to meet with their assigned advisor at least three times per year: once during summer orientation, and once per fall and spring semesters.  Junior and senior exploratory students are also required to meet with their advisors at least once per semester to assess progress toward a best-fit major.

If I Spend a Year in CES, Can I Change into the Major I Want?

  • This is a complex question since the answer is both yes and no. The answer to this question depends on which program you want. If the major you desire is outside of the College of Arts and Sciences, you must meet the transition requirements to get into the new program. Depending on the student, this could take more than a year. Our advisors will work with you on fulfilling those requirements by having you take courses that are necessary to be admitted into your desired program. Students declaring in the College of Arts and Sciences do not need to apply to transition since exploratory students are already enrolled in this college.

What Are My Chances of Getting into a Competitive Major or Program?

  • Students chances of getting into a competitive academic program are based on several factors including specific program requirements, math placement score, how well they performed in required courses, overall GPA, and the number of available spots in the program. Strong study habits and time management skills are a big part of any student’s success. This is especially true for students seeking admission into a highly-competitive academic program.

How is Major Exploration Different From Career Exploration?

  • Major exploration involves understanding different majors, fields of study, coursework, admission requirements, academic skills, etc. This process is centered around finding a student's best-fit major. Career exploration, on the other hand, is the process of identifying and exploring potentially satisfying occupations. If you are interested in career exploration, please contact the Career Development Center at (513) 556-3471.