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Exploratory/Undeclared Resources

Not sure what you want to do or what you want to study? Do you have too many ideas to choose from? That's okay! Here are some considerations:

  • Studies show that up to 80% of entering college freshmen are unsure of their majors.
  • Education is a lifelong process (probably not what a first-time freshman wants to hear, but it is true!)
  • There may be several majors and pathways that are good choices for you.
  • Research shows that within 10 years of graduation, the majority of college graduates are working in areas that are not connected to their college majors.


Here are some ideas to keep you going in the right direction...

Degree and certificate choices

A first step for you is to become familiar with the programs that COCC offers. The College Catalog is the best tool for the job; read the description of the explanation of the degrees and the individual degree and program options.

Most students who are undecided about their career or academic path select courses towards an Associate of Arts (AA) degree. This degree is designed to easily transfer to Oregon public universities, a keeps a lot of doors open for the exploratory student. By learning the AA degree requirements, and making choices within this degree structure, you have choices in courses so that you can explore, but you are also making progress towards a degree.

Take advantage of COCC's Career Services

COCC has lots of resources to help you make a decision about an educational goal or a career goal. See the Career Services web site for more information. 

For students in a transition....

COCC's CAP Center works in partnership with the Women's Resource Center of Central Oregon (www.wrcco.org) to provide transition advising for students who are navigating significant changes (such as a lay-off from work, or a divorce). The WRCCO also provides workshops free to COCC students on topics such as time management and effective decision-making. Call the CAP Center to make an appointment (the workshop schedule can be viewed on the Events web page). 

Selecting classes as an exploratory student

The basics
All COCC degrees require a basic understanding of writing, communications, math, and health. The basic skills are a great place to start.

Explore with your courses
Career Planning (HD 110)
Engineering Orientation (GE 101)
Introduction to Health Occupations (AH 100)
Introduction to a Massage Career (LMT 199)
Introduction to Education (ED 200)
Introduction to Business (BA 101)
Introduction to Forestry (FOR 111)