Myth Versus Fact
Before talking about how to explore possible majors, let’s quickly address these popular myths that can cause students’ unneeded stress!
Fact: Choosing a major takes work! At UMass Amherst we have approximately 100 majors, 60 minors, 50 certificate programs, and 15 letters of specialization. It can be daunting to figure out what you want to focus on. It’s important to understand your options and pay attention to those that intrigue you.
Fact: Just like students change majors, college graduates will change careers. The job market is always evolving! Try not to think about your major as training for a single, everlasting job, but instead think about your major as building competencies/skills that are transferable to many work environments. Your skills will also grow through experiential opportunities outside the classroom.
Fact: For a few majors like Engineering, Nursing, and Accounting, this can feel true. However, most majors are not designed as a direct path to a specific career. Most employers are looking to hire college graduates with professional skills. These skills can be developed at UMass Amherst, regardless of what you study.
Fact: Your major is not the only way to explore interests. Many UMass Amherst students explore interests via minors, certificates, Registered Student Organizations (RSOs), undergraduate research, study abroad, domestic exchange, volunteer/service learning, internships, campus jobs, and more!
What Are Employers Looking For?
According to a survey by the National Association of College Employers (NACE), here are the top eight skills employers are seeking. If you put in the effort, you will develop these skills in any major. Talk to a career advisor to learn more!
- Communication
- Critical Thinking
- Teamwork
- Professionalism
- Equity & Inclusion
- Technology
- Career and Self-Development
- Leadership
Major to Career Resources:
How to Explore Majors at UMass Amherst
Know what UMass Amherst has to offer!
Explore the Guide to Undergraduate Programs. This provides a full list of majors, minors, certificates, and letters of specialization. Review the options, click on programs of interest, and make a list of those you’d like to learn more about.
Take classes!
Go to the Guide to Undergraduate Programs, select a major, and click on the “getting started” tab. Here you will find classes recommended by faculty/advisors in the major. You should also talk to your academic advisor. You have room to explore through both the General Education curriculum and elective credits!
Get Support! There are many people to help you.
- Academic Advisor:
- If you are an exploratory track student, you already have access to knowledgeable advisors who can talk to you about different academic paths. If you are thinking about changing (or adding a major), you can talk to your current advisor or an advisor in the program in which you are interested. Advisors want you to pick a major that is right for you!
- Peer Advisors:
- Some Schools/Colleges/Majors have peer advisors. Talking to a peer is a great way to gain the student perspective about a major.
- Career Advisor:
- Career advisors can help you make connections between your possible major and careers. It’s never too early to meet with a career advisor!
- Faculty:
- Are you in a class you find interesting? Visit your professor during office hours. Ask about your professor’s interest in the subject and common career paths for graduates.
Plan it Out!
Your academic advisor can help you draft your curricular and co-curricular path to graduation. For many students, this will also include unique experiences like study abroad, domestic exchange, undergraduate research, internships, and more!
- General Education Requirements
- School/College Requirements
- Major Classes
- Other Opportunities
Advising Contacts by School/College
- College of Education
- Riccio College of Engineering
- College of Humanities and Fine Arts
- Robert and Donna Manning College of Information & Computer Sciences
- College of Natural Sciences
- Elaine Marieb College of Nursing
- College of Social and Behavioral Sciences
- Isenberg School of Management
- School of Public Health and Health Sciences
- Stockbridge School of Agriculture