Exploratory Studies

So you aren’t sure what you want to major in?

College is a place to explore your options and try new things; Exploratory Studies gives you the ability to do just that! While you’re trying your options you will have an advisor who is dedicated to helping you explore programs and courses that interest you in your first semester. 

By your second semester, you will be working with a faculty advisor who is going to provide insight on the different courses you’re taking, and what career paths you can go down with those programs.

I came to Shenandoah unsure about my major. Through job shadowing organized by Career and Professional Development, I realized there are many different career paths within each degree.”

Natalie Gales | Exploratory Studies

Shenandoah Will Help you Through your Major Exploration

Major Exploration With Career & Professional Development

Career & Professional Development will be a key resource for you and would love to help you narrow down majors that may be a good fit for you.

What is the Exploratory Studies program?

A number of students start at Shenandoah as an undecided, or Exploratory Studies, major. As an Exploratory Studies major students are able to explore their options until they are certain of which major or combination of majors, minors, and certificates fit their goals.

Meet Students of All Majors in First Year Seminar

All students take a First Year Seminar course during the fall of their first year. There are over 20 different, global-themed courses to choose from. This class gets students out of their comfort zone, as different people with different viewpoints discuss a topic from multiple perspectives. These classes have the most diversity of majors out of any at SU, so they are a perfect way to meet students from across the university and learn more about their programs.

SHEN 100

This course is specifically designed for students to be creative, self-reflective and have fun while moving toward understanding their future plans. Students will complete self-assessments, identify strengths and values, and explore ways to integrate these into post-graduate plans.

By the end of the course, learners will feel confident in themselves and their ability to navigate choosing a major and meaningful career path.

This one-credit course is offered in the spring semester.