Major Exploration and Undeclared Student Support


UC Davis provides a unique environment for self-discovery at a critical time in students’ development. We are committed to supporting and empowering students as they create an individualized plan for self-exploration and thoughtful investigation of major and career options. 

Undeclared is a great way to start

Did you know that most students change their major at UC Davis? If you are starting your first year in an Undeclared major, or if you are undecided about choosing a major, you are not alone.  We encourage major exploration and offer guidance and resources to support the process of deciding on a major. 

  • Exploring majors is a good idea!
  • You may find multiple majors that you would enjoy.
  • Majors do not always equal specific careers.
  • Deciding on a major may be easy for some students, and more difficult for other students, and that's why we are here to assist you in the exploration process.
Check out these articles to learn more about the benefits of major exploration.

Major Exploration

Major exploration includes exploring educational knowledge, self-knowledge, and occupational knowledge. To get started, download the Major Exploration Guide then review each of the four sections listed below.

Major Knowledge

Explore UC Davis majors and courses

Students at a major booth at an event called Transfer Day

Self Knowledge

Explore your talents, interests, personality type and values

Student looking for a book in a library

Career Knowledge

Explore careers and jobs of interest

Psychology student in lab

Decision Making

Make a satisfying decision and declare your major!

Student in advising session

Undeclared FAQs

  • Is it really OK to be undeclared?
  • Yes! College is a great time to explore your interests, talents, and passions and exploring majors is part of that process.
  • How do students find their major?
  • We encourage students to engage in self-exploration to identify their unique interests and talents, and provide tools to help find majors that are a good fit. Check out the career and major exploration resources list above to get started. You may also meet with an advisor in the department or program in which you are interested or discuss your general interests with a College advisor in Undergraduate Education and Advising.
  • What is a “good” major for making sure I can find a job after I graduate?
  • A major does not determine your career. Very few majors relate to specific careers. Your undergraduate degree will help you to develop the transferable skills that employers are seeking. The vast majority of employers rate a candidate's demonstrated capacity to think critically, communicate clearly, and solve complex problems as more important than their undergraduate major. We encourage you to find a major that is a good fit for you.
  • How do I find the right major?
  • During your time in college, you may discover several interesting options that appeal to you. The “right” major is one that you are motivated and interested in studying!
  • I applied as undeclared, but I've already decided on a major.  Can I take classes in that major?  When can I declare?
  • Great! You can start taking classes towards your intended major right away. You can officially change your major after your first quarter at UC Davis, and once you have met the change of major requirements. To get started, meet with your intended major advisor to check your progress and make an academic plan.
  • Is it hard to declare a major in a different college?
  • We encourage all students to find a major that’s a good fit -- regardless of the college it may be in. Some colleges (such as Engineering) may have majors that require students to take specific coursework before officially changing majors. Other majors may have a specific GPA requirement that must be met before students may declare.
  • How do I change my major?
  • Submit a Change of Major petition online through OASIS. You must complete at least one quarter at UC Davis before you can initiate this change.
  • Is it common to change majors?
  • Yes.  Nationally approximately 75% of students will change their major sometime before they graduate.
  • Am I behind if I change my major?
  • Not necessarily.  Many majors in the College of Letters & Science can be completed with 60-75 units.  It is a good idea to create an academic plan with an advisor in the major you are considering to help you keep on track.
  • Is it okay to be unsure/exploring majors in my 2nd year?
  • We encourage all students to explore and declare a major that’s a good fit by the end of their 5th quarter (prior to completing 90 units at UC Davis).  Adding a second major or changing a major after your 2nd year requires careful planning.  It’s a good idea to meet with an advisor in the major(s) you are considering to see if it will be possible to complete the major within the 225 unit maximum.
  • I'm undeclared. Why do I have an advising hold?
  • Undeclared students in the College of Letters & Science have mandatory advising. An advising hold is placed on your registration beginning in your 5th quarter of enrollment to meet with an academic advisor each quarter until you officially declare a major. Alternatively, you may choose to participate in the following Undeclared workshops: Declaring your Major or L&S Major Highlights. 
  • What is the advantage of double majoring?
  • A double major is not necessarily better than a single major.  However, if you have diverse interests, a double major could be a great option.   Not ready to commit to one major? You might consider taking a double major or adding a minor or two. Our advisors are here to help you navigate your choices and advise you on the pros and cons of whatever path you choose.  Visit our website for more information about double majoring in the College of Letters and Science and to read about how current students are able to make a double major work.
  • When should I add a minor?
  • Most minors consist of around 5-7 upper division courses (18-30 units). Some minors require upper division courses with lower division prerequisites. Some students choose to take some of these lower division prerequisites starting in their 2nd year, while other students are able to complete an entire minor in their 3rd or 4th year. Meet with the advisor for the minor you are interested in to come up with a plan that works the best for you.