How to Change Majors in College: Steps, Pros, and Cons

Deciding to change your major in college is a significant decision that can have a dramatic impact on your academic journey and future career path. As with most big decisions this can be daunting, but a well-informed decision can lead to greater satisfaction and future success. Today we’re going to talk about how to change your major, along with some pros and cons to consider. Let’s begin.

It’s important to keep in mind that most colleges and universities will let you change majors during your first year; however, certain schools may allow you to change your major in your second year. Beyond that, you’ll most likely be stuck with the major you initially chose, so don’t waste too much time if you’re thinking of changing majors. If you do, there’s a chance you won’t graduate on time, and you’ll take on additional costs.

Self-Assessment

If you’re considering changing majors, the first thing you should do is conduct a thorough self-assessment. This includes reflecting on the reasons why you want to change your major. Are you dissatisfied with your current coursework? Have you discovered a new passion or interest in another field? Questions like these will help you determine whether changing majors is the right choice for you. Along with this, consider your strengths, interests, and career goals.

Research

As always, you can rely on your trusty research in moments of uncertainty. Once you’ve determined why you want to change majors, take some time to research alternative majors thoroughly. You can start by looking into the curriculum, required courses, and potential career paths. Another way to gain insight into alternative majors is by speaking with an academic advisor, your professors, or other students.

Evaluate the Impact

Changing your major can have an impact on your graduation timeline and financial situation. Evaluate how many of your completed credits can be applied to the new major and whether you’ll need to take additional courses. It’s also important to take into consideration the potential increase in tuition costs and whether your financial aid will still apply.

Meet with Your Advisor

If you’ve decided to change majors, schedule a meeting with your academic advisor. They can provide guidance on the process, help you understand the requirements for the new major, and assist in creating a revised academic plan. Your academic advisor will also be able to inform you of any deadlines or paperwork that needs to be completed. It’s worth mentioning that your academic advisor may…ehem…advise you not to change majors; however, this decision is yours alone—listen carefully to their advice and take it into consideration, but make sure you’re doing what you truly want to do.

Complete Any Necessary Paperwork

With any big decision comes paperwork, and lots of it. Most colleges require formal paperwork to change majors, which might include filling out a change of major form, obtaining approval from the dean or department head, and updating your academic records. When filling out the necessary paperwork, ensure that you follow the instructions outlined by your institution, as mistakes can lead to time wasted and worse yet, missing a registration deadline. If you’re having trouble, schedule a meeting with your academic advisor to go over the paperwork.

Pros and Cons

Changing your major is a big decision that requires a lot of thought, consideration, and careful planning. Of course, when it comes to any big decision in life there can be benefits and drawbacks, so it helps to make a list of pros and cons before you make a hasty decision. Here are some pros of changing your major:

• Switching to a major that aligns with your interests and passions can increase your academic satisfaction and motivation, and will enhance your learning experience and overall well-being.
• Choosing a major that aligns with your career goals can lead to more fulfilling job opportunities. If your current major doesn’t offer the job prospects you desire, changing to a more relevant field can improve your job satisfaction and career trajectory.
• Changing majors can open up new opportunities for internships and networking within your desired field. These experiences can be invaluable in building a strong resume and developing critical skills.
• Exploring different academic disciplines can contribute to your personal growth and intellectual development. It allows you to discover new interests and talents, broadening your horizons and offering new perspectives.

Next, check out a list of cons of changing your major:

• Changing majors can often mean additional coursework, which will extend your time spent in college. This may delay your entry into the workforce and will increase the cost of your education.
• Extended time in college can result in higher tuition fees, additional living expenses, and potential changes in financial aid eligibility. It’s important to consider the financial aspects of changing your major and plan accordingly.
• Changing your major comes with a set of challenges. You may need to adapt to different teaching styles, coursework, and a different classroom culture depending on your field of study. This adjustment period can lead to increased stress and may require significant effort to overcome.
• Not all completed credits may transfer to your new major, potentially resulting in lost time and effort. It’s important to understand how many of your current credits will count towards your new major’s degree requirements.
• Embarking on a new field of study can bring on a sense of uncertainty and doubt. You might question whether the new major is the right fit or worry about the challenges associated with starting over. It’s essential to be confident in your decision, and to seek support whenever necessary.

For many students, college is a period of self-discovery. If you’re unhappy with your current major, it’s likely that you won’t be entirely satisfied with your future career. While there are both pros and cons to changing your major, the ultimate goal is to find a field of study that excites and motivates you, setting you on a path to personal and professional fulfillment.