Choosing or Changing a Major

If you already know what you want to major in and just need to change your major: Contact the Admissions Office at (215) 968-8100, and ask for a "change of major" form.

If you have not already done so, be sure to complete the following steps before deciding on a major or career path.

  1. Self assessment: You are the most important piece in the puzzle that is your career. The better you understand your interests, values and current skill levels, the better your career decision will be. Remember: Career development always starts with you!
  2. Research occupations: Looking at the Bureau of Labor Statistics' list of fastest growing occupations is only one part of occupational research. Set aside some time to find out more about all of the duties the occupation typically involves, required training and education, work environment, and projected earnings. When you find an occupation that piques your interest, find someone who is doing what you would like to do and set up an informational interview with that person. See more about researching occupation here.

So you're ready to make your decision? Work with a Counselor, Advisor, or friend on the following:

D-E-C-I-D-E-S Model for Decision Making

D- Define the decision to be made: (choosing your major or career path)
E- Establish a tentative action plan: (what will you do to make the decision)
C- Clarify Values: (what is most important to you with regard to this problem)
I- Identify possible alternatives: (what are your options?)
D- Discover probable outcomes (what is likely to happen if you choose these options)
E- Eliminate alternatives systematically (based on your probable outcomes, weigh the pros and cons of each option and eliminate those that no longer seem right for you). What are your remaining options? Which one has risen to the top of your list?
S- Start Action (begin working on your short term goals in pursuit of long term goals)

This DECIDES model was developed specifically for career decision making purposes, but it can be employed to help you with any difficult decision you might be faced with.