The Undergraduate Bulletin (printed or on-line version) provides a list of academic programs, course descriptions, and requirements for graduation. Your academic advisor is available to discuss these options with you and to recommend courses that would give you an opportunity to “sample” these programs. Taking a variety of courses will provide valuable information about your abilities and interests in these possible fields.
Research shows that a better person-career match leads to greater life satisfaction and success. Knowing you unique pattern of interests, values, abilities, personality characteristics, and lifestyle requirements will help you make a better match with a major or career. This information can be obtained through a variety of means, such as discussions with your advisor and/or professors, career testing and counseling, Web-based self assessment programs, job experience, classroom experience, or life experience. Make a commitment to find out more about yourself and keep a record of what you discover for use in future decision making.
Information about occupations can be obtained in books and career files in the Career Development Center; internship or employment experiences; volunteer/community service experiences; talking to professors or people who are already working in fields of potential interest (also known as “informational interviews”); Web-based information sites.
Putting all the information together and summarizing it.
Matching your summary to possible majors.
Weighing the benefits and costs of each possible choice.
Professors, advisors, and career counselors can offer supportive and objective assistance in determining a major. As an undecided student, it is recommended that you take advantage of the numerous services designed specifically to help with your decision.
Office of First Year Experience
The Office of First Year Experience offers academic advising for all undeclared students. Your advisor can help you with assessing your academic progress, career and life planning, development of study skills, and appropriate course selection.
First Year Seminar
First Year Seminar is a course designed to assist students with their transition to the University. Class size is intentionally limited in each class section to allow students to make connections with other students, get to know your instructor on a 1–1 level and explore tools necessary in finding personal success at MSU.
CSP 110: Decision Making for Career and Life
The purpose of this course is to help students develop the critical thinking, problem solving and decision making skills necessary to manage the challenges they face now (choice of major) and in the future (career choice and balancing work and life roles). This 3 credit course meets General Education Category 2 requirements for critical thinking.
Choosing and Changing Majors Learning Community
The Learning Communities Program provides an opportunity for incoming first year students to join a community that supports their academic success and transition to college life. The Choosing and Changing Majors Community provides students the opportunity to learn about themselves, develop a plan of study, and explore career opportunities.
Career Development Center
The Career Development Center (CDC) counselors provides numerous services to undeclared students, including help with choosing academic majors, identifying career options, assessing the availability of jobs in a certain field, and finding an internship
There are six undergraduate studies colleges at Minnesota State University Mankato. Click on the links below to explore what opportunities each college has to offer.
