Exploratory Program Details
At Salem State University we believe in supporting our exploratory students as they discover their passions and interests. Whether you are choosing from a couple of options or completely open to a major, we will help guide you in the right direction. Choosing to start your journey in the exploratory program for undeclared students allows you the flexibility to fully immerse yourself in the educational experience.
Current first-year students in the exploratory program can find out about upcoming events, connect with the exploratory peer leaders, and access additional resources on the Student Success Canvas page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who will my advisor be?
Each exploratory (undeclared) student is assigned a faculty advisor based on their interest areas. Students will provide information at summer orientation about what they might be interested in studying and then matched with a faculty advisor. Students are also connected with a professional advisor who will support them in the process.
When do I need to declare a major?
Exploratory students are required to declare and be admitted to a major prior to registering for courses for the semester before they reach 45 credits completed (halfway through sophomore year). Many students choose their major by 30 credits completed (end of their first-year or beginning of sophomore year
I have no idea what to major in – what supports are available to me?
There is a wide range of support systems and programs in place to support exploratory students. From the start of their first semester, students have the opportunity to discover their passions and interests. Some of these opportunities include:
- Special sections of first-year seminar which include elements of self-discovery and career inquiry as part of the course curriculum
- Access to free self-assessment tools like Focus2 (through Career Services) and professional analysis to help identify possible career paths connected to a student’s strengths and interests
- Professional advisors and career professionals who are specially trained to support exploratory students
- Special schedule planning sessions led by faculty advisors
- Events like Exploratory LAUNCH during the first few weeks of classes where exploratory students review program opportunities, the majors/minors fair in October, and the INSPIRE speaker series where thought leaders from across campus share their experiences exploring the possibilities during their own educational journey
- Opportunity to join academic student organizations to get a sense of what other students like about their chosen major
Will I be able to graduate on time?
Absolutely! At the start of the semester, the Exploratory LAUNCH helps students gain an understanding of the various majors and what requirements are necessary in order to graduate. This allows students to make plans for when they will declare their major.
Want more information? Have specific questions?
Contact exploratory@salemstate.edu.