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Undeclared Option

Uncertain...
about your future academic and career plans? You are not alone!

Consider exploring your options at Monroe Community College as an undeclared student.

Question Mark

A great opportunity...
At MCC we see the Undeclared Option as the opportunity to explore, learn, and find the right path to your future. The courses you take are generally the same courses other students are taking in their first year. When you are ready to choose your specific major, your courses move over into that program. 

Did you know?

  • 20% to 50% of students entering college are undecided about academic or career goals.
  • Approximately 75% of students will change their major at least once, others several times before graduation.

Is the Undeclared Option right for me?

  • Do you have many interests and a difficult time choosing between them?
  • Do you want to explore new options before deciding on a program?
  • Do you want to investigate programs and careers outside of traditional roles?
Often, students feel pressured to choose a major before they are ready to make such an important decision.
The Undeclared Option provides an opportunity for students to take time to learn more about their educational and career goals.

What are the advantages of choosing MCC’s Undeclared Option?

  • You will have access to an Academic Advisement Specialist who can assist you through your exploration and career decision processes.
  • Allows you time to explore different career options and discuss opportunities with department faculty in programs that interest you.
  • Provides career development courses (CDL 110) to help you identify your interests and those values important to your future career.
  • Provides you with the opportunity to enroll in a broad selection of coursework designed to gain a better understanding of areas that interest you.
  • Gives you time to work with an academic advisor to better understand your interests and abilities.
  • Gives you the tools and skills to plan your future in a systematic and thoughtful way.

What if I know what career I want, but don’t find that program in the catalog?
If you know what career you want to pursue, but don’t find it listed in the MCC catalog, contact the Admissions Office or Career Center Office for advisement. In many cases, you will be able to apply as a Liberal Arts - General Studies student, and earn credits toward transferring to a bachelor’s degree program in your field of interest.

How long can I be "Undeclared"?
The College recommends that students identify their major after one year of courses or 30 credit hours. If students remain Undeclared for more than 30 credits, it may jeopardize their ability to graduate within two years.

How will being "Undeclared" affect my graduation? Will my courses count toward my program?
There are some course requirements common to most degree programs. For example, most college degree programs require English composition, mathematics, two social sciences, and a humanities elective.

Taking common course requirements while you are "Undeclared" will make it possible for you to graduate in two years, if you study full time.

What career development resources are available to "Undeclared" students?
Undeclared students at MCC can take advantage of numerous career development resources. These include:

  • Individual Career Counseling
  • Career Forums
  • Options Newsletter
  • Individual Advisement Appointments
  • Career Resource Center
    • Occupational and employer literature
    • Computer assisted individual assistance (Discover)
    • Occupational reference resources
    • "The Job Connection"
    • Internet access and web pages
    • Career workshops
  • Access to personality and interest inventories
  • Counseling Center Personal Growth Workshops
  • Academic Advisement Center
  • Mentor Program
In addition, each semester a specialized workshop series is offered exclusively for Undeclared students!

Can I qualify for financial aid if I am "Undeclared"?
Students enrolled in the Undeclared Option are eligible to apply for and receive financial aid.

Sample first-semester schedule for a full-time "Undeclared" student
Course Credits
English (course based on advisement) 3
Math/Natural Science
(course based on advisement)
3
Social Science Elective 3
1 Elective
(based on advisement)
3
Career Development (CDL 110) 2
  14
Schedules are developed based on each students academic background and career interests.

Questions?
If you are in the process of applying for admission and have questions, please call:
Admissions Office - (585) 292-2200 or admissions@monroecc.edu

If you have already been admitted as an Undeclared student and would like to schedule an appointment for advisement and registration, please call or email:
Sally Barton Dingee
sdingee@monroecc.edu
Coordinator, Undeclared Option
Counseling Center
(585) 292-2293

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