Choosing a Major

Not sure what major is a good fit for you?  You're not alone!  Many students come to college undeclared. For some, choosing a major seems easy.  Perhaps you have always known you wanted to pursue art, history, or business. For others, however, the choice isn’t quite so easy and clear-cut. Maybe you have a wide variety of interests and just aren’t sure which major to pursue. Maybe the thought of having to pick the “one right major” feels too limiting. Or maybe you want more time to get to know the options that are available to you. That’s okay…and completely natural!  Always keep in mind that your major is a starting point.  In addition to working with your academic advisor, the Career Center is here to help you with making an informed and confident decision.  Below are some resources to get you started.

• Choosing a Major Handout [PDF]

• Self-assessment Inventories

It's essential to identify what's at your core with regard to strengths, interests, and values.  Consider taking a self-assessment inventory to assist you in this process.  This information is foundational to your future choices.

• What can I do with a major in...?"

This page contains information about typical career paths for particular majors.

• Occupational Outlook Handbook

This website, developed by the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, offers a comprehensive list of occupations.  Find information related to occupation descriptions, average salary, nature of the work, and more.

• O*Net Online

• Information Interviewing/Job Shadowing

When exploring majors and careers, it is advised that you learn more from speaking with and/or observing someone in your field of interest.  If you would like assistance in identifying someone in a particular career field, please talk with a career counselor.  Review sample information interview questions on the Alumni Career Network page.  Click here for a list of sample information interviewing questions.

• Academic Advising

Visit the academic advising webpage for electronic access to the majors and minors at Messiah College.