Nearly 10% of first-year students begin without a declared major. You are not alone! Research shows that students who take the time to find the right field of study still graduate on time and report high levels of happiness about their chosen field of study.

At Chico State, students who have not yet declared a major are part of the Exploratory Studies program, supported by the Office of Undergraduate Education and Academic Success (UED), your academic home during this time of discovery.

As an Exploratory Studies student, you’ll be enrolled in UNIV 120 Transitions and Transformation: Academic Identity and Success —a course designed to help students understand their development and navigate various fields of study, career options, and strategies for academic success. Students get an inside look at how college works and explore what helps students thrive. Because the course uses social science methods, it also fulfills a General Education requirement in Social and Behavioral Sciences (Area 4).

Exploratory Studies students also have a dedicated learning lounge in UED’s First-Year Experience space for studying, meeting with mentors, and socializing.

Academic Advising Programs (AAP) supports all undergraduate students who are exploring their major options or considering different paths of study. If you're in Exploratory Studies, you'll work with an AAP advisor who will help you plan your courses each semester and guide you in discovering how your interests can lead to a meaningful major.

Your advisor will also help you think beyond just choosing a major by supporting you in creating a unique educational journey that might include a minor, certificate program, selected electives, or co-curricular experiences that align with your goals.

As an Exploratory Studies student, you're expected to meet with your advisor at least once each semester to stay on track and make the most of your time at Chico State.

Find more information on the Undeclared Advising and Major Exploration page, or see an academic advisor in SSC 220.