Posted 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 4, 2025
Statistically, the average college student changes their major more than once before graduating. If you're asking yourself, “What should I major in?” — you're not alone.
“I always joke with students — whatever you told mom, dad, family and friends you were going to get a degree in, the Vegas odds are you’re going to change your mind on that,” says Matt Gordy, a career advisor at UW-La Crosse.
Choosing a college major is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to happen on day one. In fact, applying to college without knowing your major is common and perfectly okay. Many students explore a variety of subjects through general education courses before declaring a major.
To help you feel more confident about choosing a major, Gordy shares answers to some of the most common questions students ask.
How to choose the right major?
If you’re wondering, “What major should I choose?” — remember that choosing a major is a process, not a one-time decision.
- Focus on your interests
- Explore different subjects
- Seek guidance from advisors and career counselors along the way.
- And if you're still unsure, that’s okay. Many students begin college undecided and discover their passion over time.
Explore more UWL resources related to exploring majors and careers.
What is a college major?
A major is your primary field of study — an academic subject you’ll spend significant time learning about during your college experience. Majors in college can be broad, like psychology, or highly specialized, like radiation therapy.
“When selecting a major, pick something you’re genuinely excited to learn about,” says Gordy. “You’ll be doing a lot of reading, writing and problem-solving, so it helps if you’re interested in the subject.”
Early in college, you’ll take general education classes with students from many different majors. As you move into 200- and 300-level courses, depending on the institution size, you’ll start to see some of the same students in classes — and by the time you reach upper-level courses, that group can start to form a community and feel like an academic family.
Is choosing a major important?
Yes, but perhaps not in the way you think.
A college major is important because it helps you focus your academic energy. However, your major doesn’t always define your career path. For some professions, like nuclear medicine technology, your college degree will need to match up with the specific skills required. But for other careers, like sales, a variety of majors — such as marketing, communication studies, or psychology — can provide the foundation you need.
Ultimately, it’s about pursuing a subject you enjoy and building valuable skills and experiences along the way.
When do I need to choose my major?
There’s no single timeline for when to declare a major. Some students apply to college with a major in mind, while others wait until their first or second year.
You can usually wait until you’ve completed your general education curriculum (41 credits at UWL) before declaring a major. This allows you to explore different fields and make an informed decision.
Are there advantages to choosing a major early?
Not necessarily. “There isn’t a major advantage to choosing a major before starting college,” says Gordy. “Statistically, students are likely to change it.”
Instead, Gordy recommends identifying your top three interests. “If an institution offers all three, you’re more likely to find a good fit as your interests evolve.”
First-year students spend much of their time exploring a wide variety of classes in different disciplines — which is exactly what general education is designed for. It’s a time to discover what subjects spark your curiosity.
What if I change my major?
That’s completely normal — and nothing to feel bad about.
If you switch majors, an academic advisor can help you review your completed coursework and see how it applies to your new path. In many cases, changing majors doesn’t mean starting over or adding extra time to your degree.
Still, the earlier you find your direction, the more streamlined your academic plan can be.
What kind of support does UW-La Crosse offer?
At UW-La Crosse, students have access to both academic advising and career services.
Your academic advisor helps you select courses, understand degree requirements, and stay on track for graduation.
A career advisor supports your long-term goals — connecting you with internships, part-time jobs, and post-graduation opportunities. They also guide students through graduate school applications and career exploration.
Explore UW-La Crosse advising and career resources on the Academic Advising & Career Services webpage.
What is a minor?
A minor is a secondary area of study that complements your major. Some programs require a minor, while others leave it optional. Either way, a minor allows you to diversify your academic experience and build additional skills.
“Think of it as a way to gain more skills, knowledge and dispositions that will serve you well moving forward,” says Gordy.
Learn more about majors and minors on the UWL academics page.
What is a prerequisite?
Prerequisites are courses you need to complete before enrolling in more advanced classes. They ensure that all students in a course have the foundational knowledge required to succeed.
Understanding prerequisites early on helps you plan your class schedule efficiently and stay on track.
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