School of Humanities and Sciences

Know what you want to study in college? It's okay if you don't -- with the nearly endless possibilities available, many students have a difficult time answering that question at first. That's why Ithaca College offers its innovative Exploratory Program, which helps guide students toward a major that best matches their newly discovered interests and evolving passions -- and leads to a fulfilling career after graduation. The Exploratory Program gives students the time to explore academic options for up to four semesters and provides them with close access to a committed faculty adviser who will lend close guidance and support through the entire process.

Explore Your Options

Ithaca College recognizes that many students who apply to college are uncertain about their academic goals. The Exploratory Program takes advantage of the College's diverse liberal arts and preprofessional offerings -- including humanities, sciences, business, music, communications, health sciences, and much more. You can explore academic possibilities by sampling a variety of disciplines, and in many cases you'll be able to register for your courses before other non-majors. You'll find out what you want to pursue in depth and -- just as important -- the value of exploring disciplines new to you.

Discover Your Passions

As an exploratory student, you'll work one-on-one with a dedicated faculty adviser who is sensitive to the unique nature of the exploratory student experience. Your adviser will help you  explore areas of interest while using your time constructively; as you do, you'll also fulfill general education course requirements that will count toward completing your Ithaca College degree, no matter which major or school you choose. In your first year you may also participate in an Ithaca seminar, an interdisciplinary liberal arts course that helps students connect classroom experience and academic learning with other aspects of college life.

Decide on Your Path

In the Exploratory Program you'll be well positioned to identify a major and a career path that matches your evolving strengths and interests. As you head into your junior and senior years, you can also take advantage of numerous workshops and informational sessions offered by the College's career services team.

Whatever your interest, you'll find that your experiences as an exploratory student, both in and out of the classroom, can be rich and fulfilling. You'll follow your interests, learn more about yourself, find new enthusiasms -- and discover the major that's right for you.