Millersville Exploratory Studies & Student Development: Discover Your Passion; Graduate on Time

Millersville University's Exploratory Studies & Student Development Department provides students with the resources and ability to research a variety of majors while still being able to complete undergraduate requirements in order to graduate on time.

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Why Study In Exploratory Studies & Student Development

The Department of Exploratory Studies & Student Development is intended for students who are unsure which major they want to pursue, or who may have narrowed down their options to a few possibilities but have not yet made a final decision.

In Exploratory Studies & Student Development, students who are undeclared can take general education courses while exploring majors. In addition to one-on-one interactions with a faculty advisor, the student may explore a variety of majors by taking courses in an area of interest. Also, they can complete self-assessments to determine their areas of interest and strengths.

In our department, we are here to encourage you to graduate on time while giving you the opportunity to explore a variety of interests to match your passions and skills with a major. The resources described here will help you do just that. The program gives you flexibility to change direction if necessary. Entering college in Exploratory Studies & Student Development does not mean you will be here longer; it just means your path to graduation may be a little different, but just as fulfilling!

What Will You Learn With an Exploratory Major?

Exploratory students will begin their education by completing general education requirements and a First-Year Experience course focusing on career exploration. The general education curriculum helps students prepare for the real world through cultivating their intellect to reason logically, think critically, express themselves clearly and to foster an understanding of the human condition and the role of value judgments in the human experience. The First-Year course helps first-year students transition from high school to University life and provides a first-semester home base, helping students build a foundation of life and college skills. In the classroom, students engage in critical thinking, research, and writing to exchange ideas and learn from one another.

As an Exploratory student, you will be assigned an academic advisor who is trained to work with students on course selection, campus involvement, student services, and major exploration through student directed assessments of strengths and interests. Our academic advisors take a holistic approach to advising, striving to know students individually and learn about their personal journey and unique interests, aptitudes, and abilities. Academic advisors are a wealth of knowledge to help you with your transition at Millersville and take interest in their students’ experiences, achievements and accomplishments on campus. In short, your academic advisor will not tell you what to do – rather, they will listen, make suggestions and guide you along the way.

“You can study a variety of subjects which allows you to gain a more holistic learning experience which I think is incredibly beneficial when entering the workforce.”

- Leah Miksa | '24