Undecided (Exploratory)
Our Undecided (Exploratory) programs allow you to explore the arts and sciences, education and business fields before you decide upon a major that fits your skills and interests. Please note that entering into an exploratory program does not lead to a degree. You must officially declare a major and achieve program and commonwealth requirements before earning a degree.
Undergraduate
Undecided Area of Arts
Students wishing to pursue a broad liberal arts education, but uncertain about a specific major, can begin their college career as an undecided student in the area of arts. This permits them to explore a wide array of traditional courses in the arts, humanities and social sciences, all of which help to fulfill general education requirements while the student explores their academic and career options while developing skill sets in language, critical thinking, writing, oral communication and others. This undecided path is offered only at the Clarion campus.
Undecided Area of Business
You know you want to major in business but you aren’t certain of the field? Welcome to the largest group of freshmen business majors, undecided business. Our business program is built to meet the needs of firms and organizations across the spectrum. Whether you want to be a broker on Wall Street or are uncertain of which major to select, the first two years of foundational business courses are the same. We encourage the undecided student to attend student clubs, listen to talks by industry leaders, visit with their advisor and explore the various career opportunities each major provides. The undecided business student has two years to make their decision on their academic path. Your declared business degree is accredited by the AACSB International; the highest mark of distinction for a business education. Come, explore and find your career with us. This undecided path is offered only at the Clarion campus.
Undecided Area of Education
Those who are interested in education but are unsure where they want to focus their education studies, should be aware that the undecided classification in the School of Education does not lead to a Bachelor of Science in education degree. To receive a Pennsylvania teaching certificate in education or special education, students need to select a major as soon as possible and must meet the specific Pennsylvania Department of Education requirements including a university GPA of 3.0, passing the basic PAPA/Core reading, writing, and mathematics exam, and obtaining/maintaining the specific FBI, Act 24, Act 33 and Act 34 clearances. This undecided path is offered only at the Clarion campus.
Undecided Area of Health Sciences
The undecided path in the area of health sciences allows students to become acquainted with the health fields while taking general education classes. Once students learn their strengths and interests, it enables them to narrow their focus to a specific area such as allied health, communication science and disorders, human services, rehabilitation, sport sciences, or nursing. This undecided path is offered at the Clarion and Venango campuses.
Undecided Area of Science
If a student has a general interest in science, but is uncertain as to what field of science in which to major, the undecided path in science exposes them to introductory courses in biology, chemistry, geoscience and physics, while also preparing them with the mathematics skills necessary to earn a science degree. These courses not only help to fulfill general education requirements, but also help the student to determine which science degree credential to pursue in support of their career interests. This undecided path is offered only a the Clarion campus.
Undecided Area of Secondary Education
Those who are interested in teaching secondary education but are undecided as to the focus their studies, should be aware that this major does not lead to a Bachelor of Science in education degree. To receive a Pennsylvania teaching certificate in secondary education or special education, students need to select a concentration in one of the following areas: mathematics, social studies, English, biology, chemistry, physics, or earth and space sciences. Students must meet the specific Pennsylvania Department of Education requirements including a university GPA of a 3.0, passing the basic PAPA/CORE reading writing and mathematics exams, and obtaining/maintaining the specific FBI, Act 24, Act 33 & 34 clearances. This undecided path is offered only at the Clarion campus.