7 Steps to Choosing a Major or Program

1.  Get organized!

Develop a plan of action by defining and writing down your goals. Set a timeline to accomplish each task.

2. Assess yourself.

Gather information about your interests, personality, skills, and abilities using  the Kuder Journey career assessment tool. This tool often provides suggested occupations and/or career fields tailored to you.

 3. Explore the possibilities.

After completing all three assessments, make an appointment with a counselor to go over assessment results. Use Kuder to investigate careers to see which majors lead to them. Also, take advantage of resources available online such as the Bureau Of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov/oco, and the library to obtain additional information. When exploring, make sure to investigate:

• How much education is needed for your career
• Typical task and working conditions
• Salary information
• Future job outlook

4. Prepare to succeed.

Select a major that will develop the skills needed in the employment field of your interest. Some occupations, such as nursing, require a specific major while many others do not. Other professions require advanced degrees. Whatever you decide to do, make sure you make an appointment with an academic advisor to create an educational plan to get you started on your journey. Research shows that student who are passionate for and excited about their chosen major are more likely to complete a degree. 

5. Make a decision.

Here’s how to approach it:

• Review your researched careers/majors
• Are they compatible with your interests, skill, and values?
• Make a list of pros and cons for each option.
• Explore the numerous websites that provide detailed career information.
• Narrow your list to two to three careers/majors.
• Learn about specific requirements for careers/majors.
• Make your career choice.

 6. Evaluate your decision.

Make sure your choice is both realistic and a good fit for you. Do you feel comfortable with the results? Will this choice fit your lifestyle and responsibilities in 5 years? 10 years?

7. Stay on target!

Set goals to keep yourself on track.

• Define your goal: I am going to complete a degree in __________________.
• Create a deadline date to finish your degree.
• Schedule activities that will help you achieve, reinforce, and reach your target. For example, visit with an advisor to create an educational plan. Gain field experience by lining up an internship position, attaining a part-time job, or pursuing a volunteer position. Begin to build a network through informational meetings or by joining a club affiliated with your major.