Q: Why do some majors sound the same? A: Sometimes a major’s name
Q: What if I am not ready to declare a major? A: Select Exploratory! You’ll be assigned to an advisor who will intentionally guide you through
doesn’t fully describe what you will study. Read the descriptions to learn more about possible careers. Q: Does the major I declare matter? A: Yes, your academic advisor is assigned based on the major you declare. It can also affect the courses you take your first semester. Q: Can I change my major once I’ve declared it? A: You can! Return to your
the decision-making process. You have until the start of your third semester to declare. You have the option to take UNST 102, a one- credit course designed to help you thoughtfully explore majors/minors.
Explore Majors Make a thoughtful decision about your major by determining your interests, values and career aspirations. Pages 8-9 will help you understand which major to declare. You may take lower-level courses in many disciplines, but may need to meet additional requirements before being fully admitted to a major. All majors fall into one or more of the following categories: ◆ Programs open to any students ◆ Programs requiring portfolio/audition review ◆ Programs with space limitations ◆ Programs with content mastery progression standards
Q: Is there help along the way? A: Your academic advisor will be a wonderful resource who will introduce you to campus resources, guide you through your class schedule and help you with any academic concerns. University Advising provides extensive services to help you confirm or choose your major.
Orientation Reservation & Declaring a Major step at least two business days before your Orientation date to change it.
Q: Does it matter when I declare my major? A: There are a limited number of majors that have declaration deadlines that may impact when you can begin your coursework for that major. Students who declare these majors after the start of the Fall semester have until October 1 to make their major change selection. If you have questions about this process, we recommend talking with an Exploratory Advisor and/or emailing firstyearadvising@jmu.edu.
WEBSITE: Learn more about JMU majors
WEBSITE: Explore career paths for your major
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