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Explore Majors

"Exploring majors definitely took a lot of time and effort. It's one of those things that what you put in you'll definitely get out, though."

~Lily, former DUS student majoring in Communication Arts and Sciences and minoring in Spanish

 

Considering My Goals and Interests

To find a major that fits you, think about your goals, personality, and interests first.

 

Identifying Possible Majors

There are many different ways to explore majors. To identify majors you would like to investigate further, here are some suggested tools you might find helpful:

 

Major Themes: a quick survey that produces a list of majors relating to your interests
Alternative Majors: majors that are similar to one(s) you are already considering (log in to eLion and click on Alternative Majors)
Guide for Educational Inquiry: resources you can use to explore majors or learn more about your chosen major
DUS Navigator 101: a step-by-step educational planning program to follow during your first year
Transition Navigator: a guide to help you if you want to change your major

 

Investigating My Majors and Minors

Now take the time to research some majors that interest you. Think about minors you might want to consider, too. Write down your questions and share them with your adviser!

 

I want to learn more about majors that interest me.
College Information Grid: Summary of information sorted by college
DUS News: Online publication with special opportunities, deadlines, and advising tips
Bulletin: Course requirements for majors
Recommended Academic Plans: Suggested semester schedules for majors of interest
Listservs and Newsletters: Sign up to receive special information
Top 10 Web Ways to Find Out More About Majors and Careers
What can I do with this major/degree?
What searches can I do online to find out more about majors?
Use Google to search for majors, faculty members, careers, and videos of interest
Use YouTube and search for videos about majors and careers of interest
I want to look at minors that are available.

 

Taking the Next Steps

Ready to change into your new college? Want to think about life after Penn State? Check out these resources.

 

Changing into my new college

Once you are reasonably sure of your choice of college or major, you should transfer into that college as soon as possible so you can take advantage of additional opportunities. You do not need to meet with your DUS adviser to request a transfer to another college/major.

 

Students at University Park

 

First, make sure you qualify to enter your new college/major.

  • Check the Entrance-to-College/Major Requirements to see if you qualify
    • If you have earned fewer than 27.1 credits or are considering a controlled major, you may be eligible to enter the college offering your major.
    • If you have earned 27.1 or more credits and are considering a non-controlled major, you may be eligible to enter your major directly.

  • If you are planning to enter a Smeal College of Business major, you must remain in DUS through your fourth semester.

 

Next, contact the advising office in the college offering your major of interest.

 

 

Students at Commonwealth Campuses

 

Contact an adviser at your campus for more specific information about moving out of the Division of Undergraduate Studies.

Life after Penn State

 


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Updated August 18, 2009. Contact dus@psu.edu