Program Overview

Choose your own path. Discover yourself. Enjoy every step of the way.

As a student applying to college, you may worry about choosing a major. You may feel as if it’s a huge decision that will determine the course of your life. But your future is full of options, and the truth is that you and many other students may not know what career path you want to take. Studies show that most students change majors at least once during college. And that’s nothing to worry about—your future is ever evolving as you grow and learn about new interests.

That’s why we at Ithaca College are proud to offer our unique Exploratory Program. Unlike the undeclared status you might find at other schools, we offer a focused, heavily advised program designed to help you find your own path and get you ready for a successful future.

Explore for two years. Graduate in four.

The Exploratory Program invites students like you to do just that—explore. You’ll have up to four semesters (two years) to take courses that spark your interest and discover the major that’s right for you.

As an exploratory student, you fulfill general education requirements during the first two years, helping to ensure that you stay on track to graduate. Faculty advisers help you in everything from choosing and registering for courses to identifying a career path that matches your evolving interests. In many cases you'll be able to register for your courses before other students outside the major. 

While exploring, you’ll have plenty of room in your schedule for extracurricular activities—oftentimes joining a club or participating in a sport, attending campus events, or working on campus can help you find a whole new area of interest you hadn’t previously considered.