Exploratory Studies Program
Spend a year exploring disciplines and departments before choosing a major.
Request Information
Complete the form, and a member of our Admissions team will contact you with more information about the program.
Discover Your Calling and Career Goals
College offers a unique opportunity to learn new things about yourself, your faith, and your future. The Exploratory Studies Program is designed to help you make important decisions about your education and career while you develop transferable skills that will benefit you for years to come. These are just some of the skills you’ll build while studying in a community of Christ followers who want you to succeed:
- Time management
- Self-awareness through self-assessment
- Interpersonal communication and collaboration
- Perspective sharing and empathy
- Servant leadership
- Giving and receiving feedback
If you want to pursue a college degree but are still considering undecided major options, that’s OK! In fact, at North Central University, we are excited to see students arrive open to where the Spirit leads.
- On Campus: Complete this program on campus as part of our Christian community.
- Affordable Tuition: Explore generous financial aid options available to all residential traditional undergraduate students.
- Christ-Centered Curriculum: Define and refine your faith at NCU, where classes and student life are rooted in Scripture and nurtured in community.
[North Central University] equipped me with the opportunities to not only further develop the skills I was interested in but also gave me practical real-world applications of those skills.”
Roman
Class of ’23
Why Choose the Exploratory Studies Program?
The Exploratory Studies Program is a starting point for students who have not yet decided what they will pursue as their undergraduate degree. Your first year at NCU will be focused on completing general education and elective credits, while helping you explore the degree path that may be right for you. Students must declare a major once you have completed 30 credits, but you do not need to wait that long.
You will be ready to transition into any of our major programs and, if interested, may complete an Associates of Arts (A.A.). Through this track, you will have the opportunity to explore many disciplines and have a variety of experiences that enrich your student experience and add to your career skills. With an undeclared major, you will receive the support and guidance you need to discern God’s calling in your education and make a plan for your time at NCU and in the future.
In close partnership with Academic Success, you will have access to:
- Free assessments to help you identify and prepare for your goals
- Exposure to several departments through scheduled college chapels
- Personal advising appointments with our staff
- Guided starting point for transitioning into the degree program that is right for you
View the Academic Catalog for a full list of admission requirements and course listings.
Program Highlights
Grow Professional Skills
Get Personalized Guidance
Learn Alongside Supportive Peers
Grow Professional Skills
Exploratory Studies includes career-relevant courses and experience to develop skills you can transfer to many professional pathways.
Get Personalized Guidance
Work closes with staff and faculty across disciplines to discern your calling and select a major that will prepare you personally, spiritually, and professionally.
Learn Alongside Supportive Peers
Build lasting friendships as you attend classes and experience student life and spiritual formation with fellow students.
Learn From Industry Experts
Seasoned, credentialed faculty share their expansive industry experience and a commitment to support students as you pursue your calling.
Explore Related Programs
Not sure how your calling translates into a degree? These programs may interest you:
Associate of Arts
B.S. in Education: K-9
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
FAQs
Do undeclared majors have advisors?
Yes, every incoming undergraduate student is assigned an advisor. If you enroll in the Exploratory Studies Program, NCU selects an advisor who can guide you in career planning and help you stay on track to graduate. When you declare a major, your advisor will be a full-time faculty member who teaches in your program.
What if I’m still not sure about a major after I have completed 30 credits?
Exploratory Studies Program students who enroll with an undeclared major have the option of earning an Associate of Arts degree, which is usually completed in two years. Students select a concentration within the associate program.
If you have narrowed your choices down to a small list of majors within your first year, we encourage you to talk with your advisor, professors in majors you’re interested in, and the team in student success. These faculty and staff can help you think through your choices, share their professional and academic experiences, and help you connect with members of our community to help in your decision making.
Can I change my major after declaring one?
Yes, you can change your major after declaring. Many students do. Keep in mind that changing your major can extend your graduation timeline, especially if you change to a program in a different discipline with few or no overlapping major course requirements. We recommend communicating with your advisor and the Registrar’s Office for guidance before making a decision about changing your major.