EXPLORATORY STUDENT RESOURCES

Being Undeclared

Most first-year students are unsure about their educational direction. Studies show that two-thirds of the students who declare their major on their college application change it two or three times before they graduate. Many high school students come to college as undeclared because they have multiple interests. Not being ready to choose their major does not make them less serious about their education.

At MSMC a significant portion of the requirements for a bachelor’s degree are the general education courses. These requirements are the same for all majors. Early completion of these courses allows students to make progress toward completing their degree and to explore subject areas that can assist them in choosing a major and career.

Can students be exploratory and graduate in four years at Mount St. Mary’s College?

Yes! You can start at MSMC as an exploratory student, choose a major, and graduate in four years.  Obviously, there is a limit as to how long you can stay “exploratory” and still be able to complete your bachelor’s degree requirements on time.  It depends on what courses you take and what major you choose. If you decide on a major by the end of your freshman year, you should be able to graduate in four years. In order to do this, it is important that you begin the exploration process early in the first semester. 

General Studies Requirements

As a traditional liberal arts college, Mount St. Mary's recognizes the value of a well-rounded education. The general studies requirements at MSMC facilitate the student's intellectual exploration and growth.  The following General Studies Curriculum applies to all bachelor degrees except for the Bachelor of Music and the Bachelor of Science, which do not require a foreign language. Students may not take general studies courses on a credit/no-credit basis, and must receive a grade of ‘D’ or better.

I.   Communication Skills (minimum 7 units)
II.  Critical Thinking (minimum 3 units)
III. Arts and Sciences (minimum 21 units)
     A. Art or Music
     B. Literature
     C. History
     D. Natural and Physical Sciences
     E. Mathematics
     F. Social and Behavioral Sciences
     G. Contemporary Economics or Politics
IV. Foreign Language - Required for B. A. degree only.
V. Philosophy and Religious Studies (15 total)
     A. Religious Studies (6-9 units)
     B. Philosophy (6-9 units)
VI. Diversity (6)
VII. Quantitative Literacy (6)
     A. Either two QL2 courses OR
     B. One QL1 & one QL2 course, but NOT two QL1 courses

Exploratory Student Resources

Mount St. Mary’s College provides several resources and tools to help students explore and select their major.  The Academic Advisement and Career Centers offer advising services, major and career workshops, career planning and career exploration courses designed to guide students during their major exploration. In addition, resources are available on the "WHAT CAN I DO WITH A MAJOR IN...? webpage, which allows students to explore career options for a wide variety of majors.

Choosing Your College Major

So, What Are You Going to Do With Your Life?

Some students start college knowing exactly what they'd like to major in. Others don't know what to major in, or have a career goal but no knowledge of what majors will get them there. Most find themselves switching majors during college. No matter where you fall in this range, there is help available to guide you in the right direction. Check out some tips at:

http:www.collegeboard.com/student/csearch/majors_careers/45262.html

CAREER SERVICES DEPARTMENT

The Career Services department is another valuabale resource which aims to educate and support students by providing guidance and resources for career placement.  The department also aides in internship placement, volunteer experience, as well as assists with resume writing and mock interviews.  (To learn more and visit their webpage, click on the title link above.) 

Grading Policies