Undeclared Program

students from undeclared program seminar

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. 

Learn why being Undeclared is a great way to start exploring Majors

"students and instructor jump in front of art mural"

Double Major in the College of Letters & Science

Having a hard time picking just one major? Why not do both? Learn how other students have found a way to have it all.

Major Exploration/Undeclared Workshop Fall 2020

Tuesday November 17th, 12:10 - 1:00pm
Zoom: https://ucdavis.zoom.us/j/97447876454

Major Exploration poster

student looks through survey instrument

Passions, Careers, & Self-Exploration

Self-exploration is a great strategy to identify your unique interests, talents, goals, and aspirations. Use the following strategies and resources to help guide you in your self-exploration.

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.
  • 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.