Exploring Programs - Student Success

To be undecided means that you have not selected a major yet and may need guidance to do so. Some students have their options narrowed down to a few majors, while others are open to exploring all potential options. In any case, starting undeclared allows you to explore your strengths and interests while also feeling more confident in choosing a major. 

Flexibility and ongoing guidance are essential components of the support system for exploring students. Northern Michigan University has success advisors that are available to help students throughout the process. Success advisors play a pivotal role in guiding students through self-discovery, engaging in meaningful conversations, helping with exploring different majors, and assisting in setting academic and career goals. 

• Begin by looking through the university catalog
  • The bulletin provides all potential options that NMU offers. It is important to become familiar with the bulletin. Begin by writing down options of programs that spark your interest.
• Utilize the general education courses to explore different areas of interest
  • The General Education Program at NMU provides a variety of courses in subjects that you may not have explored yet. Challenge yourself to explore outside your comfort zone, you may find an interest that you did not know you had before.
• Complete the Major Elimination Activity
  • Even though you may not know exactly what you would like to do, you probably have an idea of what you do not want to do. 
• Take PathwayU
• Meet with a Success Advisor in the areas that interest you 
• Talk through your results from PathwayU with your Success Advisor or Career Services
• Meet with Career Services

A comprehensive, searchable, list of the courses of study that are offered here at Northern Michigan University can be found below.

PathwayU is an online platform, that can help students find their purpose when making critical decisions on their education. Predictive analytics have shown that students who complete PathwayU have higher GPAs, are more likely to persist, and are better able to communicate their goals with less stress.

PathwayU evaluates interests, values, personality, and workplace preferences with four different assessments. All four of the assessments take 20-25 minutes to complete. Once the assessments are complete, PathwayU provides detailed and customized explanations about the results.