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Major Exploration

All first year undergraduates will have an opportunity to declare a major during the spring term and receive a departmental advisor and a home department, but may remain an undesignated sophomore should they want more time to decide. You can explore your major options via the links in this section and see our advice on making your choice below.

Choice of Major Advice

Examine your interests, skills, experiences, motivations, and goals.

Step One: Ask yourself some questions
  • What classes or subjects particularly interest, excite or intrigue you?
  • What subjects are you especially strong or talented in?
  • What extracurricular experiences have been most enjoyable or fulfilling for you?
  • What motivates you to consider certain majors?
  • What are your short and long-term academic and career goals?

Having talent in a subject does not always mean you should major in it! You will be taking several classes in the major you choose, so be sure you truly enjoy the subject and are motivated to do the work.

Step Two: Try out a department that interests you! Explore Your Options and Gather Information
  • Start by exploring the Course Roadmaps and Important Links provided on this site. These links provide you with useful information about the various major departments, class requirements and options, research opportunities, what majors do after graduation, profiles of faculty, etc. The Undergraduate Administrator in each department is another key point of reference if you have specific questions. Finally, take advantage of department exploration events.
  • Participate in advising seminars, UROPs, internships, and major exploration classes as valuable ways to get a sense of whether you actually like a major.
Step Three: Talk with Your Advisor and Associate Advisor
  • Your advisor has a wealth of knowledge about MIT. They can talk through all of your options and help you decide what major makes the most sense for you.
  • Your associate advisor is also equipped to talk with you about academic decisions such as choosing a major. They can discuss their overall experience in their department, and also connect you to peers in departments you may be considering.
Step Four: Make the Right Choice For You!
  • Everyone has their own reason for choosing a major, and no major is “better” than another.
  • Your choice of major will help you develop knowledge and skills in a particular discipline, but it does not dictate your career or life path.
  • Students will meet with advisors to complete their Choice of Major Form (due Tuesday, April 22, 2025).
Additional Resources

Career Advising & Professional Development (CAPD) is another great resource on this topic. Their staff can help you discuss how to connect your major to different careers during an appointment. You might also find it helpful to watch A Major Puzzle: First Year Decision Making online and review the associated resources on Handshake or these tips on Choosing a Major.

Advising staff are also available to discuss your options with you. To make an appointment with one of us, write to firstyear@mit.edu.