Undeclared Majors

On average, university students change their major at least three times. Because CSULB offers 76 baccalaureate degrees (and approximately 200 options), most entering students find majors that meet their educational goals after some exploration.  Many become "undeclared" majors while they are in the exploring mode.  While freshmen students are encouraged to be "undeclared," upper division students (juniors) must declare a major when they have reached 60 baccalaureate units.

Don't be overly concerned if you have not yet declared a major. You are probably an undeclared major for one or more of the following reasons:

• You are uncertain about your interests and goals.
• You are taking courses for personal interest and skill development.
• You need guidance/counseling before deciding.
• You are waiting to be accepted into a closed program.
• You have decided on an area of interest but haven't notified your department.
• You are taking General Education (GE) courses before transferring to another university.

If you are uncertain about your interest, aptitudes, and goals here are some questions that you need to ask yourself:

• What academic subjects have I enjoyed studying? (Plan your GE program in such a way that it helps you explore different areas unfamiliar to you.)
• What are my personal goals?
• Where do my aptitudes lie? (You can make an appointment in the Counseling and Psychological Services Center or the Career Development Center for vocational counseling or aptitude testing.)
• What skills do I possess as a result of work experience?

Answers to those questions will help you focus your attention on four or five options. Keep your options open.  Remember that your education should equip you to adapt to the ever changing world.

"The liberal arts and sciences are the academic core of the University.  These fields provide instruction in the basic skills necessary for advanced training and the academic foundation necessary to acquire philosophical, analytical, empirical, historical and applied knowledge."

You should also:

1. Investigate career opportunities in the fields related to the majors that approximate your interests by:

• Visiting the respective departments and finding out their requirements.
• Talking to department advisors.
• Talking to seniors in that department about their experiences.
• Talking to professionals in the field you are considering.

2. Attend career planning workshops offered on campus.
3. Visit job fairs.
4. Do volunteer work in the fields that interest you. (For example: Work in a hospital as an admitting clerk if you are interested in a medically related field.  It would help you gain insight into the field.)

Do not feel pressured to make a decision too soon. Remember, you are building a pathway toward your life goals.

There are campus resources available to help you make decisions about a major including:

• Career Development Center, BH-250, (562) 985-4151;
• Counseling & Psychological Services, BH-227, (562) 985-4001;
• Undergraduate advisors in major departments;
• Specially designed courses such as Educational Psychology 191, Educational Psychology 360I, or University 100.

Additionally, the "Choosing a Major" page at the University Academic Projects web site for freshmen is an excellent resource for anyone who is still undecided regarding their major.