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Our Exploratory Studies advisors will guide you in finding a major that aligns with your passions and goals. By helping you identify your interests, they will support you in selecting a meta-major that will eventually funnel you to your major selection.
Exploratory Studies
On Our Side of the Mountains
1
Extra Time to Declare
We remove the pressure of declaring your major right away so you can slow down and find what interests you most.
2
Stay On Track
Even with extra time to declare, you’ll graduate in four years with a degree that reflects your true passions.
What's Exploratory Studies?
Discover one of the most common academic paths for our first-year students.
About the Program
The Exploratory Studies program at Western provides guidance and a pathway for undecided students to declare a major they feel confident about.
Instead of declaring a major right away, Exploratory Studies allows you to start with a meta-major instead. A meta-major is a temporary major that clusters academic programs with similar courses and career paths.
Meta-Majors
You’ll be paired with an Exploratory Studies advisor to help you select a meta-major that best suits your interests and skills. We offer the following meta-majors:
- Arts, Humanities & Communication
- Business
- Education
- Recreation & Exercise Science
- Science, Math & Engineering
- Social Sciences
Graduate on Time
You should be ready to confidently declare your major after completing 30 credit hours in your meta-major.
Once you declare your major, you’ll be paired with an academic advisor. They’ll personalize your academic schedule based on your preferences and help you register for classes that best fit your needs.
Top 3 Reasons to Choose Western
Our Unbeatable Location
With over 2 million acres of public land, an extensive trail system, and Crested Butte Mountain Resort just 35 minutes from campus, Western offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and hands-on learning.
Our Close-Knit Community
Western and Gunnison are known for their strong sense of community. The people here are genuinely welcoming and supportive, creating an environment where you can thrive and feel a true sense of belonging.
Our Class Environment
At Western, it’s easy to build meaningful relationships with professors both inside and outside the classroom. With an average class size of 17, you’ll work closely with your professors and have your education personalized to you.
Subscribe to Exploratory Studies at Western
Want to learn more about Western’s Exploratory Studies program?
Sign up to discover how you can explore your interests, identify your strengths, and find the right academic path with personalized support. With small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and hands-on learning opportunities, Western provides the guidance and resources to help you navigate your college journey with confidence.
By filling out this form, you’ll also connect with one of our friendly admissions counselors, who are ready to answer your questions and support you every step of the way, no matter where you are in the process.
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The 5 Best Majors for Undecided Students
While there is no such thing as the "best" major with so many varying interests and skills, we have found these majors to be especially popular among our formerly undecided students.
Business Administration
A business administration degree is a great choice for students who aren’t quite sure what to study because it’s so versatile. It opens several options for career paths, as business skills can be applied to almost any professional setting.
At Western, students earn a specialized skillset by choosing an emphasis to fine-tune their business administration degree, such as marketing, finance, management, and more.
Computer Science
As our world becomes increasingly digital, the demand for software and cybersecurity experts has grown worldwide. If you enjoy problem-solving and mathematics, a computer science degree will set you on track for a fulfilling and high-paying career out of college.
Western offers several emphasis concentrations, including applied machine learning, information security, scientific computing, software engineering, and more.
Environment & Sustainability
Many students develop a strong connection to the natural beauty of the Gunnison Valley, so it’s no surprise that they eventually commit to majoring in environment and sustainability. As the climate emergency deepens, the need for professionals in environmental management, policy, and other related areas will continue to grow.
Western offers several emphasis options including food systems and public land management so you can become an expert on the issues you are most passionate about.
Communication Arts
Like business, a communications degree is extremely versatile and a great option for those beginning college as an undecided major. This pathway equips you with the skills to create compelling and impactful messages. Strong communication skills are essential in virtually every profession, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for diverse career opportunities.
The program offers two options for emphasis: strategic communications and film studies.
Art
Although many students exhibit great interest in art, they often don’t consider it as an option or are told by others not to pursue it seriously. At Western, we firmly believe you will find the most opportunities in what you are most passionate about. Whether you want to become an art teacher or an independent artist, we can help you form a fulfilling career around art.
We offer emphasis concentrations in ceramics, jewelry, painting, studio art, sculpture, photography, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
I'm here to help!
Rylee Nordberg
Academic Advisor & Exploratory Program Coordinator
My name is Rylee Nordberg, and I am an Academic Advisor as well as the Exploratory Programs Coordinator. I graduated with my BA from Western…
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Contact Information
Contact Location
Western Colorado University
Taylor Hall 300
1 Western Way
Gunnison, CO 81231