A major is a specialized field of study. By declaring a major, the student agrees to take particular classes to earn a college degree (a two-year associate's degree or four-year bachelor's degree) in that field.
College majors are organized collections of classes emphasizing one of the following
• a subject (English, mathematics, etc.).
• a theme (peace studies, history of philosophy, etc.).
• a professional field (pre-med, pre-law, engineering, etc.).
For example, to earn a bachelor's degree in Urban Planning and Development from Ball State University, you need to complete 126 credit hours of course work. Approximately 81 of those credit hours would be specific to Urban Planning and Development.
With most bachelor's degrees, you can minor in a subject different from your major. Minors generally require about half the credit hours as a major. A minor can allow you to merge two different subjects to create more career options.
For example, if you wanted to work as a scientific illustrator, you could major in science and minor in graphic design.
Choosing a major can be one of the most difficult yet important decisions you make.
You may be concerned about how the choice will affect your future. In addition, you may feel pressured to make a decision before you have any idea about what majors are available and how you would find a job in that field.
You need to first ask yourself these questions:
- How do I decide what I want to do with my life?
- What do I like or want to do?
- What can I do?
- What is the outlook for jobs with this major?
- Which high school subjects do I enjoy?
- What types of assignments interest me?
- What is difficult for others but comes easily to me?
Remember, you can always change your major of study, but it might mean you will have to stay in college longer to complete the required number of classes.
Evaluate the majors you are considering. When you are getting close to making a decision, think about the following:
• What preparatory classes are required?
• How many classes are required in the major?
Keep Your Options Open
If you're still undecided or think you might change your major, it's best to enroll in a college with a variety of solid programs. That way, you won't have to change universities if you decide to switch college majors.
Acceptance into certain programs can be competitive. If you're interested in, say, journalism, and know that enrollment is limited, pick journalism as your college major. Should you change your mind, it'll be easier to transfer out of journalism than to transfer in.
That said, keep in mind that there are multiple avenues to most careers. Consider your long-term goals, but when choosing a major in college, also make sure that'll get you through the next four years. If you'll be going on to graduate school, you can always take post-baccalaureate classes in order to meet the admission requirements. For example, medical schools accept candidates from any major. Ultimately, employers are more concerned with your skill set than with the title of your degree.
For more help in choosing a college major, visit this Web site: Mymajors.com
This free online service surveys your grades and personal preferences, and then generates a list of college majors you may want to consider. Click on a major for a description of what you can do with it, and for links to more info, relevant university departments, and books on the subject.
If you haven't decided what to study, you are in good company. Nearly two-thirds of all college freshmen have not chosen a major, and 55 to 60 percent of college students change their major at least once.
As usual discuss your decisions with your parents or an adult your trust.
No comments:
Post a Comment