This section is designed to assist you in making thoughtful, well-informed decisions in choosing a major. We divide the major exploration process into two main steps: self-assessment and exploration and research.

Some students need more information about themselves, about majors, or about careers to make a decision. Some students face challenges beyond gathering information. Challenges may include feeling pressure to make a certain decision or feeling overwhelmed by so many choices. Career Consultants are available to talk with you about these or other concerns you may have.

We invite you to make an appointment to meet with one of our consulting staff through Handshake.

Self-Assessment

Before you choose a major, identify your interests, abilities, and the type of knowledge and skills you would like to acquire. Consider what you hope to gain from your major in terms of your career preparation.

What do I want from a major?

  • Do I want a major that will prepare me specifically for the career I have in mind?
  • Do I want a major that will provide me with a broad skill set?
  • Do I want a major that will enhance my chances of acceptance into graduate or professional school?

Which major will fit me best?

  • What are my interests?
  • In which subjects am I most engaged? Why do I find these courses engaging?
  • What abilities and skills do I want to continue developing?
  • Do I know the possible career paths associated with each major?
  • Do I know career paths that will fit my interests, skills, and values?

Answering these questions requires intentional reflection on your life experiences and unique characteristics.

Exploring Majors

Choosing a major does not necessarily mean choosing a profession. However, some majors are designed to prepare students for specific careers (nursing, for example). If you have a career in mind, identify majors that will prepare you for that career. You can also explore If you do not have a career in mind, you can explore all majors at UA and evaluate which might suit you based on your self-assessment.

You may find it helpful to work with a Career Consultant to discuss the results of your self-assessment or to seek additional guidance in choosing a major. Current UA students can schedule an appointment through Handshake. Incoming first-year students can email us at career@ua.edu.

Resources

  • Self-Assessment Exercises
  • What Can I Do With This Major?
  • Focus 2 is an interactive career-planning platform with assessments and career exploration tools.
  • Candid Career has brief videos of professionals from thousands of occupations talking about their careers.
  • O*Net OnLine is a database of hundreds of occupations described in terms of daily tasks, knowledge required, and qualifications and interests of the typical worker.
  • Occupational Outlook Handbook is a collection of occupational profiles that cover the tasks of a job, its work environment, the steps for landing the job, and the job’s projected outlook.