Exploratory Studies

Not everyone comes to the University of Wyoming knowing what to study. Some of us are so relentlessly curious, we have a tough time confining our interests to just one major.

That’s why UW created Exploratory Studies.

What is Exploratory Studies?

Exploratory Studies isn’t a major per se, rather it’s a program designed to help you explore academic areas that might lead to your dream degree.

So, instead of assigning the catch-all designation “undeclared major” or “undecided,” we’ve curated UW academic programs into six “big picture” categories or tracks from which you can explore.

As an Exploratory Studies student, you will take classes in your chosen track, possibly live on the same floor with other students in that track and work closely with your advisor as you begin to winnow your list of possible majors.

It’s OK that you haven’t decided your life’s path. There is so much to explore off the beaten trail.

20-50% of students are estimated to start college undecided

Exploratory Studies Program Highlights

At UW, we’ve eliminated the “undeclared” and “undecided” monikers in favor of offering a pathway to discovery called Exploratory Studies.

As an Exploratory Studies student, you will choose from six academic tracks in which you’ll take courses your freshman year. You will also work with your advisor on learning more about majors in your track, class choices and possible careers.

The ultimate goal: To gain greater clarity about your true academic calling.

Here are some reasons to participate in Exploratory Studies:

Exploratory Studies tracks. Choose an Exploratory Studies track and take at least four classes in your track. UW has grouped academic subject areas into six general fields of study to make it easier for you to narrow down your major choices:

Communication, Media and the Arts
Math, Data Science and Business
Government, Public Policy and Justice
Human Service, Wellness, and Social Science Sciences
Science and the Environment
Culture, Society and Diversity

Learn more about each track.

Learning communities. Live on a floor in UW residence halls with other students in your track with whom you can share ideas and experiences.

Campus involvement. Get busy! UW has 250-plus student clubs and organizations. A lot of students find their passions by getting involved on campus in areas related—and unrelated—to their studies.

Study abroad. UW offers more than 400 study abroad locations. Choose from faculty-led travel courses in a subject associated with your Exploratory Studies track or plan to study in another country for a full semester. (Tip: UW offers amazing scholarships for travel study.)