Exploratory Studies

About

While deciding on a college major is no small decision, exploring does NOT mean you are alone. In fact, more than 20% of students enter college undeclared and approximately 75% of students change their major at least once during their college career. Most students choosing the Exploratory Studies route at Harding fall typically do so because they:

have a broad range of interests
are not comfortable declaring a major during their first or second year of study or
are between majors

Program of study

At Harding every exploratory student is paired one-on-one with an academic advisor who works with them to create a highly personalized plan. These advisers guide students based on their strengths, interests, and career goals. While the program is known as the one major that students cannot graduate from, our end goals are for every student to decide on a major before they acquire 60 semester hours and most importantly, to graduate. Another important benefit is that Exploratory Studies students have the unique opportunity to explore various options for a major while still fulfilling their general education credits, helping them to avoid courses they might not otherwise need, potentially saving them both time and money.

Course offered

One specific way we assist students is through their enrollment in our one-credit course UNIV 2100: Exploration of Career, Calling and Vocation. Here students are guided in career exploration exercises, receive feedback from vocational and interest assessments, visit with faculty in prospective career fields, and learn about the training requirements, wage, and growth opportunities associated with various career paths. Our entire process is intended to equip you to make informed decisions.

Contact the Director of University and Exploratory Studies: Tannon Davis, MBA Student Center 236 Ext. 4054 tdavis4@harding.edu

Is the Exploratory Studies program right for me?

If you don’t know what to major in, we have good news: you don’t have to know. Students who spend dedicated time exploring their major options are more likely to choose the right major the first time and avoid delays in graduation. Your Exploratory academic advisor will guide you in exploring different majors, academic programs, and areas of interest. You will have opportunities to take career assessments, self-assessments, research a variety of careers, and meet with advisors across campus. At the end of this journey, you will have much more information to make an informed decision.

How long can I be Exploratory?

You can remain Exploratory for up to three semesters. You can transition out to your major of choice at any time but can remain Exploratory for a maximum of 60 credit hours. At the end of your third semester you must select a major, or at minimum a college, to enter. Your Exploratory academic advisor will help you to select a major and transfer into that major as efficiently and quickly as possible.

Meet Our Staff

Darla Phillips, M.Ed.
Instructor, University and Exploratory Studies
dphillips@harding.edu

Office: Student Center 236H

Tannon Davis
Director, University and Exploratory Studies
tdavis3@harding.edu

Office: Student Center 236I

Contact Us

Academic Resource Center

501-279-4531

arc@harding.edu

Location: Student Center Room 236

Mailing address:
Harding University
Academic Resource Center
HU 10749
Searcy AR 72149-5615