If you have trouble picking a career path or feel like you have too many interests pulling you in different directions, you are not alone – and we are here to help! To assist, we have an entire department devoted to flexible degrees and individual studies.
Flexible Degree Options
- Undeclared Major - First Two Semesters
- Individual Studies (AS)
- Interdisciplinary Studies (BTech)
How to Choose a Major
Our students tell us that Alfred State is the best choice for someone still on the fence when selecting a major. That’s because our programs are built to produce career-ready graduates. The more you learn about a major and it’s hands-on learning, the more insight you have into what it’s like to work in that field. Picking a major is a process that is just as individual as you are. One way to start is by browsing departments, then focusing on specific majors that resonate with you.
You may also want to evaluate the number of job opportunities when selecting a major. Because we work with employers to determine what skills are in-demand, many of our degree programs have more employers lined-up to offer jobs than we have graduates. Consider all your options. For example, what were once known as blue-collar jobs may now be called gold-collar jobs because of their earning potential. You may be interested to learn about the advantages of selecting a nontraditional career option because no job has a lock on the gender of applicants. Our career development center also offers an interactive student interest inventory to suggest possible career paths.
Student Support
Every student is assigned an academic advisor at Alfred State to work one-on-one together. This opportunity to ask questions and seek advice is a great resource for students throughout their college years. We offer extensive support including career planning and counseling. Many of our students have been in your shoes and found their way to a career they love. Alfred State's goal is to keep students on a productive path to complete their degree and to begin their career.
For inspiration while you are considering choices, here are resources that may help:
- Browse Departments to Sample Majors
- Majors with More Jobs than Graduates
- Pathway U Survey of Student Interests
- How I Chose My Major - Student Testimonials
- Career Development & Employment Rate Stats by Major
- Nontraditional Majors: Success Has No Gender
- Four Steps to Choosing a Major – Nathan Gebhard
- The Need for Job Skills Training – Mike Rowe
Don’t worry if you don’t know where you want to be 20 years from now. Even if you do have an idea, there is still a need to be flexible and adapt to unforeseen changes in order to succeed. Finding a career that is best for you, one that matches skills, interests, and opportunities while providing a family-sustaining wage is a journey of self-discovery and adaptability.
Want to discuss the possibilities for your future? We look forward to helping you.
admissions@alfredstate.edu or 1-800-4-ALFRED (800-425-3733)