Undeclared Student – FAQ

Any current undergraduate student interested in exploring majors at UCF can meet with an Academic Advisor in the Knights Major Exploration and Transition Center (KMETC). All KMETC advisors are trained in the General Education Program and have a working knowledge of the major at UCF. So not only can they assist you through the major exploration process, they can help you in making academic decisions like course selection.

Absolutely! The National Center for Education Statistics found that a typical U.S. college student will change their major three times over the course of their college career. Students who complete the Major Exploration Program with the Knights Major Exploration Center will explore their skills and interest before declaring a major. Of course, there is a limit as to how long you can stay undeclared and still be able to complete your bachelor’s degree requirements on time. However, KMETC is committed to helping you during this exploration period at the beginning of your education to identify all your major options. This exploration period means you are less likely to change your major after declaring and be on track to complete your degree on time.

There are many reasons for being Undeclared. Students may have many interests or may be unsure of how their interests may relate to a major. Students within their first year at UCF are often unfamiliar with college requirements and want to explore before declaring. Through the Major Exploration Program, students are provided an opportunity for guided exploration of major and career opportunities so that students can assess their interests and skills in relationship to a major.

Contrary to popular belief, there is no single major that is right for you. Studies have shown that within ten years after graduation, most people are working in careers that are not directly related to their undergraduate major. Many majors can provide you with skills that are transferable to a variety of career options.So, a thorough exploration process can help students find a major that fits their interest, while lending itself to several career opportunities.

You can always revisit our office if you find that the major you chose is not the best fit for you. As soon as you begin to have doubts about your major, please do not hesitate to work with our advising team to schedule an appointment. We will do our best to use the information you discovered about your prior major(s), personal or professional strengths, and desired career trajectory to develop a new game plan to get you closer to your academic goals.

Students should select courses that interest them and that allow them to explore potential majors. Consider taking courses from three categories: introductory courses in majors of potential interest, general education courses that are broadly applicable to the requirements of many majors, and elective courses that are specifically designed for undeclared students; such as MSH 2330 (Career Planning) or SLS 1501 (Strategies for Success in College). Your academic advisor can help you select the right courses.

At KMETC, we understand students may have had a major declared and may not want to be undeclared. Our team will assist you with defining your educational and career goals and creating a new plan to meet those goals. Through the exploration process, advisors will look at your previous coursework to find options that are most suitable. We will also recommend assessment of your skills, interests, values, and personality to help guide you in your choice.

UCF policy reads: All students at the University of Central Florida are expected to officially declare a major prior to earning 45 college credit hours (this includes credits earned from college level exam placement, Dual Enrollment, advance placement and international baccalaureate).

However, at KMETC we recognize that students may not have a major selected by 45 college credit hours. Or if they do, they may be unhappy in that major and wish to begin the exploration process. KMETC will assist any undeclared or major exploring student, regardless of credit hours earned.

The answer to this question will vary based on a range of factors. Your risk for hitting the excess credit hour limit may be influenced by, and not limited to, the following:

• Your initial starting year and term at UCF
• Your current class standing (Freshman, Sophomore, etc.)
• Your total number of credit hours
• If you have failed, withdrawn, received No Credit/Unsatisfactory grades, or repeated courses
• If you completed any AP, IB, AICE, CLEP, Dual Enrollment, and/or any other types of college credit while still in high school
• If you Transferred into UCF vs. starting UCF after high school graduation
• The potential major that you are considering changing to, and the remaining coursework needed to complete the degree

Your advisor will be able to help you determine where you may stand regarding the excess credit hour limit during one-on-one meetings. Depending on where you stand academically and the majors that you are considering, you may not be at risk for excess hours! For more information on the Excess Credit hour policy and example scenarios of how the Excess Hour surcharge may work, please visit the UCF Registrar’s Office website.