Undecided Major or Undeclared Major?
Begin Here. The goal of the Academic Exploration program is to spark your interests and help you choose a major program and career field that you will be excited about!
Every journey, even one with an unknown destination, starts with a single step — and this path is no different.
All first-year students at Russell Sage College will take RSC 101 in their first semester. RSC 101 is a great way to get anchored at Sage; to meet fellow students and faculty and learn about resources; and to start to explore potential pathways.
Here is what your first semester might look like (15-16 credits):
- RSC 101 Thriving at Sage: 3 cr.
- WRT 101 Writing in Community: 3 cr.
- Course in potential major or General Education: 3 cr.
- Course in potential major or General Education: 3 cr.
- Course in potential major or General Education: 3 cr.
When do I Have to Choose a Major?
Students who have been exploring typically declare their major either at the end of their first year, or in their third semester, prior to registering for their fourth-semester courses.
So, you see, you won’t fall behind if you begin college with an undecided major. We will help you pick smart options that keep your pathway flexible.
Academic Exploration Resources
• Academic Advising assistance provided by a dedicated AEX academic advisor
• Resources for Undecided Students
• Use the Office of Career Planning’s Career Resources to explore different career paths.
• Undergraduate Catalog
• Contact [email protected] for more information.
Spotlights
Meet students who started with an undeclared major, then found support in the Academic Exploration program.
“When I went into college, I knew I wanted to help people, but I wasn’t sure how, so I waited to declare my major. I took classes in a few areas and found I really enjoyed psychology and sociology classes.”
When New York City native Lizbeth Paez was applying to college, she was leaning toward schools with interior design programs …
“Sage really is a family. The professors want to know how you’re doing both inside and outside the classroom. I really consider them friends. They do everything in their power to help you succeed.”
Lily Batule, a member of the Sage women’s varsity basketball team, is quite familiar with the concept of playing one-on-one. …
Your Future
Students who enter college with an undecided major or an undeclared major go on to earn degrees in fields they’ve taken an interest in, from Business to Criminal Justice to Health Sciences to Theatre and more.