Choosing a major is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make in your academic career, second only to selecting a college. Asking yourself, “What major should I choose?” might feel overwhelming, but with careful consideration and the right resources, you can find a path that aligns with your interests and strengths. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of exploring your options, understanding the importance of research, and making an informed decision to determine what major is best for you.
Deciding on a major can be daunting, especially when you’re fresh out of high school. You’re not alone if you find yourself asking, “What major should I choose?” Start by researching potential career paths. Attend job fairs, shadow professionals in fields that interest you, and conduct independent research to explore your passions. For example, if you love sports and are interested in writing or social media, consider a specialized degree program such as a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism with a Sports Information Track. This approach allows you to play to your strengths while pursuing a subject you care about.
Additionally, remember that it’s common for students to switch majors. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, about 30% of students change their majors within three years of enrollment. You’re not locked into what major you choose when starting college, so embrace the flexibility of switching majors if needed.
If you’re unsure of what major to choose as your first semester approaches, consider enrolling as an undecided or undeclared major. Enrolling as an undecided major allows you to take foundational courses and explore different areas of interest without immediately committing to a specific path. Taking a variety of classes can help you narrow down your options. Just be careful not to enroll in too many niche courses that may not count toward your eventual degree. Always consult with your academic advisor to ensure you’re making progress toward a degree.
Even if you enter college with a declared major, it’s wise to understand your school’s internal transfer process. Some schools have strict or limited transfer policies that might affect your ability to change majors. Researching this process beforehand can save you from future difficulties if you decide to switch paths.
Avoid these common pitfalls when choosing a major:
Deciding on a major is a process that involves self-discovery and exploration. Start by asking yourself, “What major should I choose?” and then explore various fields that interest you. This journey can be enlightening and help you uncover passions and strengths you might not have known you had. If you’re still uncertain about what major to pursue, consider the following:
Remember, it’s always OK to enroll as an undecided or undeclared major. As an undecided major, you can earn foundational credits while exploring your options to make a more informed decision down the road. Academic advisors can also help you navigate the process of choosing a degree, providing insights into different majors and career paths.
Nearly 11,000 students
Over $8 Million in Scholarships Given Annually
21 Average Class Size
5 University Residence Halls with plenty of nearby apartments
14:1 Student-to-Faculty Ratio
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Out-of-State
In-State
Out-of-State
Tuition and fees may vary by major, college, area of study or based on your location. The university reserves the right to assess fees for special services and programs applicable to students. First-time International undergraduate students’ tuition rate is established based on first enrollment and remains unchanged for four consecutive years. Graduate students should plan for a yearly tuition increase of approximately 5%.
For a complete list of additional fees and detailed tuition information please visit the University Bursar website here.
Cost of the most popular room and meal plan combination; Your cost will depend on the plans you select. Costs in the box cover the most popular room and meal plan combination (on-campus); If you choose to live off-campus, the estimated cost of room and meals will be around $12,000 based on 12 months.
Based on average books & supply costs
Health insurance is required for international students.
Applicants must have graduated from high school or have successfully completed the General Education Development (GED) test to be considered for admission. Freshman applicants applying for admission to Youngstown State University must submit a high school transcript or GED transcript. Submission of American College Test (ACT) or Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) scores is optional. Please note: some majors require test scores to be admitted into the program.
Applicants must have a cumulative weighted high school grade point average of 2.00 (on a 4.00 scale) or higher, a core unweighted grade point average* of 2.00 (on a 4.00 scale) or higher and have an ACT composite score of 17 or higher or a SAT composite score of 920 or higher (evidence-based writing and reading and math) to be admitted unconditionally. (*Core gpa is calculated based on grades earned in the following courses – English, mathematics, science, social science and foreign language, if applicable, from 9th through 12th grade).
Fall 2024
application deadline is
August 1, 2024
