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Undecided

Exploratory Studies

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Explore the unlimited possibilities at UW-Eau Claire

No matter what you're interested in, there is a path for you at UWEC — and we'll help you find it. Here, more than 200 academic programs of study are available to you, and you can take your time deciding what interests you most. Until you decide on a major, you will work with an undeclared advisor in the Advising, Retention, and Career Center. This advisor understands the requirements needed for all majors on campus, and they will support you as you learn more about yourself, UW-Eau Claire and potential careers.

As an undeclared student, you are joining the largest group of incoming Blugolds at UWEC. Exploratory studies allows you to dig deeper into various subjects that interest you with guidance from faculty and staff. In your first few semesters, you have the opportunity to participate in a variety of courses and activities developed specifically for a student who is unsure of their major.

As an exploratory studies student, our goal is to help you connect your passions and talents with majors.

UWEC Scholarships

First-year students have access to a variety of scholarships, regardless of their academic area of interest. Some of these are automatically applied for when you submit your application materials for UWEC, and others require a separate application. Click here to learn more about scholarships.

Where undecided means unlimited

UW-Eau Claire is a place where you'll feel supported to discover your passions — and eventually make those into a career you will love.

During your time as a Blugold, take courses that spark your curiosity, get involved in student organizations and participate in research to find your path. Along the way, you will uncover your interests, build relationships and find clarity on who you are and where you want to go after graduation.

Why UW-Eau Claire?

Personalized resources and support. You'll be supported through your entire academic journey as a Blugold. From career counselors and academic advisors in the ARCC to friendly faculty who get to know you by name, a strong support system is waiting for you at UWEC.

Undergraduate research and creativity. No matter your major, UWEC has unparalleled research opportunities for undergraduate students. Blugolds are curious about the world around them, and many complete research projects with fellow students and professors. Some even become co-authors in the process.

Study abroad opportunities. With a variety of study abroad programs in more than 30 countries, the world is your oyster. You'll be supported in making your plan to ensure you have access to the classes you'll need to graduate while abroad and to stay on track with your graduation timeline.

Majors and Career Services Fair. This event is held four times per academic year: twice in the fall semester and twice in the spring semester. This is a perfect time for undeclared students to meet with representatives from various departments on campus.

UWEC is a top university for

undergraduate research

& creative projects

U.S. News & World Report

18:1

Student-to-faculty ratio

Recognized as a

National Leader

in Study Abroad

by the 2023 Open Doors Report of the Institute of International Education

Quick facts about UWEC

  • Known as "Wisconsin's Most Beautiful Campus"
  • 220 student organizations to explore
  • Designated a "Best Value College" (SmartAsset)
  • Fall 2021 undergraduate enrollment of 9,377
  • Recognized as the best college in Wisconsin for LGBTQ+ students (bestcolleges.com)
  • A top-ranked comprehensive university in WI, MN and IA (Forbes America’s Top Colleges for 2021)

What can I do after UWEC?

You will find your place here. While you discover what your passions are and where your career interests lie, you will build connections and relationships with your fellow Blugolds that will last a lifetime. And, if you work with an advisor each semester from the time you arrive at UW-Eau Claire through graduation, you will be able to finish most majors within four years.

An education from UWEC sets you up for success within a variety of fascinating careers. From health care to business to social media, Blugolds can be found in nearly any field of work you can think of. Once you find your path, the opportunities are yours for the taking.

Where are Blugold alumni now?

Cliff Hayes

I came to college undecided, and as a first-generation college student, I had no idea what college was like or how to navigate it. Now, I present research and I’m looking at going to law school.

Cliff Hayes Criminal Justice
Senior Katherine Langfield collects research samples in Little Niagara Creek on lower campus. Langfield, who will graduate in May with a degree in geology, says research has been a big part of her undergraduate education at UW-Eau Claire.

Rediscovered passions through research

As a first-year Blugold, Katherine Langfield was undecided on her major. She always had an interest in geology, so she decided to take a course during her first year to see if that could be a fit for her — and it was.

Learn how Katherine decided on her major and conducted research in the process.

Curriculum

Most students take about 30 credits (15 credits per semester) in their first year. Courses include those that meet the university graduation and liberal education requirements and help you explore majors.

What classes do undecided students take?

Learn more in the undergraduate UWEC course catalog.

Related programs at UW-Eau Claire

Popular programs at UWEC include: