4 answers
Genevieve
Student
Durham, North Carolina
1
Question
Asked
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Can you switch majors if you change your mind on what you're currently studying?
If you start with one major and find it's not for you, are you able to switch?
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4 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
657
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Yes, I have seen it done.
But it must be done under the guidance of a college advisor, because you do not want something to go wrong and you end up losing credits or taking things you should not be taking.
But it must be done under the guidance of a college advisor, because you do not want something to go wrong and you end up losing credits or taking things you should not be taking.
Irene K
CRM Manager
2
Answers
Santa Clara, California
Updated
Irene’s Answer
Hello Genevieve,
Absolutely, changing your major is not only possible, but it's also quite common! I can speak from personal experience, having switched my own major once, and I can tell you that many of my friends have done the same, some even a couple of times. Ian's advice above is definitely worth considering, but I'd like to add another perspective. It's important to remember that your major doesn't have to directly link to your future career.
For instance, I have a friend who pursued an undergraduate degree in Psychology simply because it fascinated him, and yet, he's now thriving in his career as a dentist. So, if you choose to stick with your current major, even if it doesn't seem to align with your career aspirations, I would suggest exploring courses or perhaps even a minor in the area you're interested in pursuing professionally. This way, you can showcase your understanding and commitment to the field, and you might even accumulate some project work that demonstrates your capability to excel in the profession.
Best of luck on your journey!
Absolutely, changing your major is not only possible, but it's also quite common! I can speak from personal experience, having switched my own major once, and I can tell you that many of my friends have done the same, some even a couple of times. Ian's advice above is definitely worth considering, but I'd like to add another perspective. It's important to remember that your major doesn't have to directly link to your future career.
For instance, I have a friend who pursued an undergraduate degree in Psychology simply because it fascinated him, and yet, he's now thriving in his career as a dentist. So, if you choose to stick with your current major, even if it doesn't seem to align with your career aspirations, I would suggest exploring courses or perhaps even a minor in the area you're interested in pursuing professionally. This way, you can showcase your understanding and commitment to the field, and you might even accumulate some project work that demonstrates your capability to excel in the profession.
Best of luck on your journey!
Ian Moody
Senior Business Manager
6
Answers
Duvall, Washington
Updated
Ian’s Answer
Absolutely, great question! Yes, you always have the option of switching your majors if you find:
1) Your initial selection isn't aligning well with your interests or career goals,
2) A different major has ignited your curiosity significantly.
You might also realize that you wish to change your major but continue to minor in your original selection. However, bear in mind that based on the timing of your decision to switch, it could necessitate extra classes or extend your study duration to fulfill the requirements of the new major.
It's always beneficial to have a discussion with your college or university advisor prior to making any substantial alterations to your educational journey. They can provide valuable advice and guidance to ensure your decisions align with your long-term goals.
1) Your initial selection isn't aligning well with your interests or career goals,
2) A different major has ignited your curiosity significantly.
You might also realize that you wish to change your major but continue to minor in your original selection. However, bear in mind that based on the timing of your decision to switch, it could necessitate extra classes or extend your study duration to fulfill the requirements of the new major.
It's always beneficial to have a discussion with your college or university advisor prior to making any substantial alterations to your educational journey. They can provide valuable advice and guidance to ensure your decisions align with your long-term goals.
Stephanie Greenfield, CCEP
Compliance
3
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Stephanie’s Answer
Hi Genevieve,
Yes, you can absolutely change your major. I started out as a public relations major and ended up graduating with a degree in political science after taking a few of those courses as electives. You always have a choice!
As Ian stated above, although you can change your major, you should work closely with your college advisor on your major declaration and how to make the switch in the most efficient and cost-effective way. Good luck!
Yes, you can absolutely change your major. I started out as a public relations major and ended up graduating with a degree in political science after taking a few of those courses as electives. You always have a choice!
As Ian stated above, although you can change your major, you should work closely with your college advisor on your major declaration and how to make the switch in the most efficient and cost-effective way. Good luck!