Is it normal to be unsure about your major?

You're not alone. Almost two-thirds of college students feel overwhelmed by the process of selecting a major and about half are unsure of their career path when they start college, according to one higher education survey.

What do I do if I'm unsure about my major?

It's okay to not know what your major is or even to second guess your major. You have more time, than you can imagine. If you're an undecided student, do research! Whether it's reading about possible majors online or talking to professors in different departments, doing research is extremely beneficial.

Is it normal to doubt your major?

You are not alone. Many people experience the same thoughts during their college career at least once. It is common for people to switch their academic path and oftentimes their institution as well. Approximately 80 percent of college students in the United States change their major at least once.

Is it normal to not know what you want to major in?

It's actually quite common to apply to college as an undecided major. If you decide to apply undecided, make sure intentionally diversify your interests and explore different subjects so you can determine your major by the end of your sophomore year.

Is it OK to not know your major?

This freedom can feel quite liberating at first, but it often evolves into worry — when you can do anything, sometimes it's hard to pick just one thing. We're here to tell you that it's not worth that worry. Not only is it totally normal to not know what to major in, but it's completely, 100 percent okay to not know.

7 Most Useful College Majors (2023)

How many students are unsure about their major?

You're part of the 75 percent of American college students who either start their college career as undecided or change their major at least once. It's all part of the process of exploring your options.

Does undecided major look bad?

Applying to college as an undeclared major generally does not hurt your chances of getting into college. It can help you if you do not meet the initial GPA prerequisites for a specific department or program. Where it may hurt you is if you're trying to get program-specific scholarships in your first year.

What is the best major for someone undecided?

Social Science

These programs include coursework in psychology, sociology, and anthropology. Economics, political science, and geography also count as social sciences. Some learners concentrate in areas such as women's studies or mass communications.

What to do if you realize you don't like your major?

If so, you might want to talk to professors and/or advisors from those departments and ask any questions you have; this can help you decide whether you might want to switch to that major. Also, take a look through the department's course catalogue - are these courses you would like to take?

How do I know if I'm in the right major?

Start by thinking about your interests and strengths because these can point you toward a major you'll enjoy. Research different majors and their requirements to see which ones align with your goals and aspirations. Don't be afraid to seek advice from academic advisers and professionals.

What is the most regretted major?

Journalism, sociology, communications and education all topped the list of most-regretted college majors, according to ZipRecruiter's survey of more than 1,500 college graduates who were looking for a job.

What happens if you pick undecided major?

On your college application, this means that you are applying for acceptance as a student to that university without a specific degree of study. Being an undecided major is temporary — eventually, you must decide on a major that you want to study and change from “undecided” to a major your college or university offers.

Why do I feel so unsure about my degree?

It's completely normal to feel unsure about your degree choice, especially considering the long-term impact it can have on your career. Here are a few steps you can take to help you make a decision: Self-assessment: Take some time to reflect on your interests, strengths, and long-term career goals.

What is it called when you don't know your major?

Colleges and universities use the terms “undeclared”, “undecided”, and “exploratory” for students who have not yet chosen their official academic major. These students have been accepted and are enrolled in the university but must still choose their final major or degree.

Should I feel bad about changing my major?

Changing your major isn't likely to make you look bad to employers, so you shouldn't let this concern stop you. Instead, employers might appreciate that you focused on figuring out what you really want to do and took the time and effort to study a different major.

Is it harder to get accepted as undecided?

For most colleges, choosing “undecided” as your major will not affect your chances of getting accepted.

What are the cons of undecided major?

Cons for Undeclared Majors

Stress levels high: Exploration can be fun, but it's also a big task. Not to mention that social and family pressure to choose a major can weigh on you and start to affect your continuing education. The sooner you decide, the sooner you can be free of that anxiety.

What is the easiest major to get accepted into?

What majors are not popular?

Do colleges care if you're undecided?

Admissions boards understand how important this decision is. They also know their students, including incoming students, are likely to change their course of study at one point or another. So, there is no reason for a school not to accept an applicant solely because they are undecided.

What percentage of college students go undecided?

It's been estimated that anywhere from 20 to 50 percent of students start college as “undecided” in terms of their major. What's more, upward of 75 percent of college students change their major before they graduate.

Is it easier to get into college with an undeclared major?

Most admissions experts agree that in most cases, there's no harm in putting “undecided” on your college application. Admissions counselors know that choosing your major is a tough decision, so they're not surprised when some students just aren't sure about what they want to study.

Is it normal to not feel ready for college?

Not every student is ready for college right after high school. There is no shame in taking a year or so to work, to travel, or to participate in a gap year program as a way to gain a little more maturity and autonomy.

Do most jobs check your degree?

Only 53% of employers always check job candidates' education credentials. Slightly more than half of the employers surveyed, 53%, always verify the education credentials listed on a job applicant's resume. Among the rest, 24% sometimes check applicants' education records, while 23% never do.