How to Choose a Major | Crash Course | How to College

Summary

This Crash Course episode, 'How to College', humorously compares college to a video game, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right major as the main storyline. It explains majors as specialized fields of study, guiding students through structured paths with required and elective courses. The video advises on balancing course loads, considering general education requirements, and the flexibility of changing majors. It encourages students to explore options, seek advice, and utilize resources to make informed decisions about their academic journey.

Takeaways

• 🎮 A college major is like the main storyline in a video game, providing structure and significant milestones.
• 🎓 Majors guide the classes students take, helping them specialize in a particular field or skill set.
• 🗺️ Colleges require students to pick a major to create their unique educational journey.
• 📚 Major courses are designed to meet specific standards, but there are choices and electives within those courses.
• 🧭 Prerequisites and electives allow students to explore different topics and hone specific skills.
• 📝 Majors might include a thesis or capstone project, a challenging research project usually completed in the final year.
• 🤝 Academic advisors are crucial in helping students navigate major requirements and course selections.
• 🎓 General education (gen ed) requirements are introductory-level courses in a range of subjects, helping broaden students' knowledge.
• ⏰ Balancing major courses with gen eds and other obligations is essential to avoid burnout.
• 🔄 Switching majors is common, with about a third of students changing their major at some point.

Q & A

What is a major in the context of college?

A major is a student's intended area of study in college, guiding the classes they take and helping them specialize their knowledge in a particular discipline, field, career, or skill set.

Why is choosing a major considered an important decision?

Choosing a major is important because it determines the primary focus of a student's college education, influencing the courses they take and their potential career paths. It is also an investment of time and money.

What are some common requirements for completing a major?

Common requirements for completing a major include taking a series of core courses laid out by the department, completing prerequisite courses, and choosing electives that align with the major. Some majors also require a thesis or capstone project.

What are electives and how do they fit into a major?

Electives are courses that students can choose from a list, allowing them to dive deeper into a topic, hone a particular skill, or explore new areas. They can complement the core courses required for a major.

How do general education (gen ed) requirements differ from major courses?

General education (gen ed) requirements are introductory level courses in a range of subjects that all students must take, regardless of their major. They cover core academic areas like composition, social science, and math, broadening students' horizons and helping them discover potential majors.

What are credit hours and how do they impact a student's workload?

Credit hours indicate how many hours per week a student will spend in a class. For each credit hour, students can expect to spend additional time outside of class on homework and studying. This helps students manage their time and balance their course loads.

Is it common for students to switch majors in college?

Yes, it is common for students to switch majors. About a third of students change their majors during college. However, switching majors late in the game can require extra semesters and additional costs.

What is the benefit of starting at a community college before transferring to a 4-year institution?

Starting at a community college can save money and allow students to complete required courses before transferring. Community colleges offer flexibility and can help students get accustomed to college-level classes.

What resources are available to help students choose a major?

Resources to help students choose a major include academic advisors, professors, career services departments, admissions counselors, and online tools like College Navigator and Big Future. Students can also audit courses and consult with faculty and staff for guidance.

How can general education courses help in choosing a major?

General education courses can help students explore different fields and discover interests that may lead to choosing a major. They provide a broad foundation of knowledge and can make the decision-making process easier.