General Sciences and Arts Program

Many college students would like more time to explore possible career paths before choosing a major. In fact, more than half change their major at least once. The General Sciences and Arts program gives you the advantage of time (up to three semesters) to explore the many options available at Michigan Tech without delaying graduation or losing money pursuing a major that isn't right for you.

We will help you plan your schedule with courses that satisfy the general education requirements of all majors and will provide resources and guidance to help you find a major that best suits your interests, talents and values.

Enroll in the General Sciences and Arts program and invest in your future.

"I changed my major many times since I have been at Michigan Tech. I love my current major and would never have found it without the help from professors and advisors who guided me throughout the years while undecided."Bridget Alaniva, Communication, Culture, and Media

Exploring Majors is a Good Thing

Most students change their major at least once, and many change it three to four times during their years in college. Not being sure what you want to major in means you are open to exploring the options and to finding what is best for you. Exploring majors is a creative, positive space in which you learn more about what's available and more about yourself.

Being happy with your major = enthusiasm for learning, motivation for going to class, and a higher grade point average. Find the major that's best for you.

Resources for Success at Tech

Many resources are available to General Sciences and Arts program students to help them choose the best major and design a rich educational experience.

SA1000 - Exploring Majors at Michigan Tech

This one-credit class offers opportunities to examine the many options for majors and potential careers. Activities in class will allow you to reflect on your own goals, talents, interests, and values. Experienced students from the many departments on campus will present on their majors, minors, campus activities, internships, co-ops, study abroad experiences, and career goals. You will gain strategies to make important choices and to promote your academic success at the University.

Course Description

Course Goals

  • Listen to students from diverse departments on campus talk about their major and career plans
  • Learn about activities and services on campus that enhance your college education
  • Meet other students who are exploring their options
  • Discover your favorite interests, best skills, ideal work environment, and dream job
  • Explore who you are, what’s most important to you, and how this connects to majors, possible careers and goals for the future.

Computer Labs

All students have access to the vast majority of computing labs on campus. Both PC and Mac computers are available for General Sciences and Arts program students. Many software packages are available to help you with a variety of academic situations. Consultants and other students in the lab are friendly and helpful: they will lend their expertise and advice to anyone in the lab.

University Career Services

Career Services is a great place for everyone to learn more about themselves and their career choices, but it is an especially rich resource for General Sciences and Arts program students. Career Services provides a wide range of information and services, including individual appointments regarding choice of major and career options connected to that specific major.

Meet With Advisor

Meet with Heather Simpson, the advisor for exploring students. Some things you can work on together:

  • Explore the many options for majors, minors, certificates and other opportunities
  • Figure out your interests and strengths
  • Plan a schedule to minimize wasted credits
  • Gain strategies for academic success and campus involvement
  • Keep on track to graduation
  • Figure out how majors translate into careers

Frequently Asked Questions

If your question is not answered here, please contact the Advisor for Exploring Students.