
4 reasons why not declaring a major might be for you
Not sure what to major in? Starting out as an Exploratory Studies student is the perfect way to explore your passions and find your major.
Exploratory Studies is just what it sounds: This is a place you can explore majors and their concentrations as a CSU student before declaring a major. There’s always time to explore!
About one in five students in each incoming class has not yet declared at major at CSU. These students are part of Exploratory Studies, which is not a major but what we call an “advising track.”
Exploratory Studies is also for students who have not yet been admitted to a competitive major and are working to either complete requirements or explore their options.
All Exploratory Studies students are supported by staff members dedicated to helping you find the right fit for your goals and skills.
Exploratory Studies students are supported by professional advisors.
Students can take the one-credit Exploring Major Tracks class to learn about academic and career options within the various major tracks at CSU and explore how those options align with their interests, values, skills, and identities.
Exploratory Studies students are fully admitted, degree-seeking students with access to financial aid and scholarships.
Students can take introductory-level courses in different areas of interest, different majors, and different academic colleges to explore programs while earning credits toward graduation requirements.
Not declaring a major best serves students at the freshman or sophomore level with fewer than 60 college credits complete. If you have more than 45 credits in transfer or test out credit (AP, IB, CLEP, etc.), you are strongly encouraged to visit with an advisor before you choose Exploratory Studies.
Exploratory Studies students can’t register for courses that are restricted to students in specific majors. For example, Exploratory Studies students can’t register for courses exclusively for Engineering majors.
Exploratory Studies students focus on completing core curriculum requirements until they have selected a major. While Exploratory Studies students have lots of choices for classes, some classes are only for students who have chosen a particular major. For example, a civil engineering class that is is only open to students with a civil engineering major.
The borders of your notes are always covered in sketches and ideas. It’s not that you can’t keep your mind on what you’re doing — it’s that you can’t keep it off what you haven’t yet created.
You love how someone’s eyes light up when they learn something new, and love the idea of inspiring a new generation. You’re ready to explore your academic interests on a path that also prepares you to teach them.
Rolling down the car window and getting lost in the landscape is your favorite part of any trip. The natural world has always been your classroom, and learning how all life fits together, your inspiration.
You’re a people watcher. You see a story in every person and want to dig deeper, learning more about the history, culture, and circumstance that led to the very moment you’re sharing.
You see science intertwined in every part of a person’s life and this unique vision spurs you to improve people’s lives by taking proven ideas to the next level.
You were the first to notice the tadpoles in the pond and the bird’s nest in the tree behind your house. But, more importantly, you always questioned how they got there — and how to protect them.
For additional opportunities, please reach out.
Exploratory Studies is pleased to offer both in-person and virtual appointments. Appointments are highly recommended, but students and guests also may drop in Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 1-3 p.m.
Call us at (970) 491-7095 to schedule an appointment. Our in-person visits are held at Canvas Stadium, 1415 Meridian Avenue, in Fort Collins.
Not sure what to major in? Starting out as an Exploratory Studies student is the perfect way to explore your passions and find your major.
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Want a more in-depth look at Exploratory Studies? Take a look at the program website to learn more.