Degree Considerations-
Degree planning is a process requiring careful consideration. We have identified several important factors for students as they plan their time at Ohio State. Many students regard four years as the time necessary to complete an undergraduate degree. We understand and support that goal; however, we also understand and support a student's decision to pursue a degree within another time frame.
Timely Selection of Major
Students come to college with varying levels of commitment to a major:
- 100% certain
- deciding between 2 or more majors
- exploring interests and options
If you are still deciding or re-deciding, you are not alone. Some students have well-defined major and career plans; other students have a variety of questions and concerns about choosing a major. It is not unusual for students to change majors three to five times prior to graduation.
Being uncertain about your major can be very unsettling. Please be assured that your academic advisors, faculty, and staff stand ready to assist with the range of needs you might have. Ohio State provides many opportunities to engage in activities designed to provide experience and information related to the majors you are considering. Ask yourself this question to help determine your level of commitment to a major: what motivated you to select your major?
Timely Selection of Course Work
An important part of the degree-planning process is understanding at what point in your program a particular course should be taken, whether a GEC or GEC-R, a prerequisite, a major or minor course, or a necessary elective. Each course should be carefully chosen after consulting with your Arts and Sciences academic advisor and your major advisor. For more information on scheduling courses, please see Chapter 5, Scheduling Courses.
