Exploring & Declaring Majors/Minors
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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Exploring Majors & Minors
Not sure what to major in? You’re not alone—many students explore different paths before deciding. UCSC offers resources to help you discover your interests, connect with advisors, and make an informed choice.
Where do I begin?
There’s no single “right” way to pick a major. Start by thinking about:
- What subjects or topics excite you?
- What types of problems do you want to solve?
- What kinds of work or learning environments energize you?
How do I explore majors?
Choosing a major is an important step in your academic journey, and there are many ways to explore your options at UCSC:
- Review Major Qualification Requirements & Visit the Websites for Majors You are Considering – Nearly all majors have qualification requirements (like specific courses, GPA thresholds, or credit limits) that must be met before you can declare. Reviewing these early ensures you’re on track.
- Take Introductory & Major Qualification Courses – Take introductory courses required for the major, both to get on track and to test your interests and skills in the discipline. If a major you’re considering has qualification requirements, learn what those requirements are, and stay on track to meet them by mid-sophomore year.
- Connect with College Advisors – College Advisors can help with your process in identifying possible majors and with making your decision.
- Connect with Major Advisors – Advisors can help you understand major requirements, suggest exploratory courses, and discuss your academic and career goals.
- Use Resources from UCSC Career Success – Consider taking one of the online assessments they make available, and meeting with a Career Coach.
- Review the Fields of Study list in the UCSC General Catalog to see the majors and minors offered – If you see a major that looks intriguing, read about it in the Academic Programs section; identify the required courses and whether the major has qualification requirements.
- Join a Major Exploration or Major Department Workshop – The Office of Campus Advising Coordination hosts Major Exploration Workshops every quarter. Many departments also host Workshops related to the major.
- Join a Major-Focused Student Group or Attend a Department Event
Tip: Many students change their first-choice major. Taking intro classes that satisfy several majors keeps doors open.
How can I make sure I declare a major on time?
- Understand Major Qualification Requirements – Nearly every major has qualification criteria—courses, grades, or GPAs—that must be met before you can declare.
- Plan Ahead – If your intended major has qualification requirements, work with a major advisor to create an academic plan that ensures you complete them on time.
- Monitor your progress. If you’re struggling with a required course, seek tutoring or academic support.
- Stay Within the Declaration Deadline – Students entering as frosh must declare in their sixth quarter at UCSC, while transfer students must declare in their second quarter. Missing the deadline may limit your options and result in an enrollment hold.
- Alternative Pathways –
- If qualification hurdles look steep, keep an alternative major (or related minor) in play and talk with your College Advisor about backup options.
- If you don’t meet the qualification criteria for a major, you may have the option to submit an appeal for consideration. At the same time, you should continue to explore related majors that align with your interests and goals with your College Advisor.
Proposed vs. Declared Major
- A proposed major means you’re interested in a major — you might have listed it on your application or updated it online.
- A declared major means you’ve officially filed with your department/advisor and met the major qualification requirements.
- You can declare as soon as you’re eligible — you don’t have to wait until sophomore year (or second term for transfers).
Connect with an advisor
Need help with classes, planning, or next steps? Find your advisor and reach out—we’re here to support you.