Major Exploration Advising (30+ Credit Hours)

In Major Exploration Advising we are here to assist you with learning about yourself and the major possibilities that can suit your academic and career interests and goals. We can help you evaluate where you currently are academically and make connections to potential majors and careers utilizing resources like VIPS and DegreeWorks. We will work with you to create a personal plan of action that may include:

  • Appropriate VIPS assessments
  • Referrals to other advising offices 
  • Recommended courses for next term

At the end of the day, our goal is not only to help you succeed academically but thrive in all aspects of your college experience. If you are wanting to learn about other possibilities check out our resources or schedule an appointment today!

Start Here

  • If you want to feel confident about your major and career decisions, start by looking inward. Determine what drives you, your interests, your strengths, and what you want out of life. College is a very unique time in your life where you are going to be exposed to new ways of thinking and learning. Embrace this opportunity and do not box yourself in with preconceived ideas about what majors or careers you might have been interested in!

    In advising you may be asked to talk about school subjects you excelled in or struggled with in the past. You may also be asked about what things you enjoy doing and what skills you feel you have. Start thinking about these things early so you are prepared to discuss with your advisor.

    1. Most students come to college knowing exactly what they want to major in and what they want to do after graduating.
      • False! While it is true that a number of students do come to college with a major in mind, often taking classes in that field or being exposed to a new academic subject may cause them to reevaluate their goals. College is a chance for you to explore your interests and get out of your comfort zone, so take advantage!
    2. Changing my major is going to keep me from graduating "on time".
      • This can be true and false; therefore, it is critical to talk to your advisor before changing majors. It is possible that changing your major to a similar field as your previous major may keep your graduation date the same or even speed it up, whereas changing to a completely new field may require Summer or a few additional semesters to graduate. Timing of your major change is key and should be done with help from your advisor!
    3. Majoring in something means that that is the only option I have for a career after graduation.
      • False! While it is true that some majors are set-up to lead you to a certain career (ex. Nursing) it does not mean you have to be boxed into a certain career for the rest of your life! Most people end up in a field that has very little to do with the subject they studied in college, rather they utilize the skills they learned in their degree to help them succeed. For example, a student who majors in Psychology may initially think they can only be a therapist or counselor after graduation, but in reality they can pursue a number of broad fields like human resources, business, and technology.

Alternative Major Options for Popular Programs

Additional Resources

  • VIPS is a great way to help you determine what is valuable to you in future career, but it can also help you figure out what is important to you in a new major! Your Major Exploration Advisor may recommend specific VIPS assessments for your needs, but you do not have to wait until then to start them.

    Click Here to learn more about VIPS and to take the assessments.

  • Did you know that KSU also has advisors who specialize in career advising? They can also help connect you with internship, co-op, and job opportunities after graduation! Their website is a great place to start, and they offer even more extensive resources for career exploration. 

    Visit Career Planning and Development for more information.

  • A student may declare their major at any time during the semester by simply following the steps below.

    Log onto Owl Express.
    Select the Student Records tab
    Select the Declare or Change Major/Minor option
    This will open a form which will allow you to make changes to your major/minor
    Please allow 5-10 business days for processing your change.  You can return to this site at any time to check the status of your request.

    Some programs may require additional steps before major change is changed. Please speak with an advisor in that major with any questions.

  • Complete an even more in-depth personality and major assessment* from the Office of Counseling and Psychological Services *assessment fee is $25

    Career Planning and Development also offers additional online assessments

©