9 Practical Tips for Choosing Your College Major

Concordia University Texas offers more than 20 majors in addition to a variety of concentrations, certificates and minors. It can be tough to choose the right college major with so many options. That's why we've compiled nine tips to help you through the process.

Any gifts, abilities and talents you have are from the Creator. The first and most important thing to do is to ask God for guidance through prayer and the reading of His Word. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) states, Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.

Here are nine more tips to help you choose the right major.

1. Declare a college major ASAP.

Higher education is a big investment, and CTX wants to ensure that you get the most value for the investment. Some students know exactly which major they want to declare, while other students take longer to decide.

While you can begin as an undeclared major, try to declare a major as soon as you can. Settling on a major allows you to stick to a degree plan and complete your degree on time, saving you both time and money.

2. Get an internship ASAP.

The sooner you experience the field you're interested in firsthand, the better.

Find an internship in the role or industry you plan to enter to determine if it's the right career path for you.

It's much easier to change majors before completing upper-level coursework during your junior and senior years. If you wait to change your college major, it may delay your degree.

3. Consider additional certifications.

Concordia University Texas offers a variety of certifications you can add to your degree.

Aligned with The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, CTX offers the Lutheran Teacher Diploma, Christian Teacher Diploma and Director of Christian Education (DCE) certification through the College of Education. The School of Fine Arts offers the Director of Parish Music (DPM) certification.

4. Consider pre-professional programs.

If you plan to pursue higher education beyond a bachelor's degree, consider participating in pre-professional areas of study.

While a majority of pre-professional programs allow you to choose from a variety of college majors, the pre-professional program will help you focus on a particular field.

CTX offers the following pre-professional programs:

• Pre-Law
• Pre-Medical
• Pre-Physical Therapy
• Pre-Seminary

The Pre-Nursing program is designed for students interested in majoring in Nursing. After completing the first two years through the Pre-Nursing program, students then transition into the Nursing program.

5. Supplement your degree with a minor.

A great way to expand your skills in a way that complements your major is to add a minor. Requiring a minimum of 18 credit hours, of which at least nine are upper-level credit hours, a minor can help you stand apart as a job candidate.

If you want to become a graphic designer, consider majoring in Business Administration and minoring in Art to develop business acumen and creative skills.

6. Leverage the liberal arts foundation.

Concordia University Texas is a liberal arts institution that exposes students to a wide variety of disciplines, regardless of major. In addition to industry-specific skills, CTX equips you with the skills to think critically and lead others.

With a greater breadth of knowledge, our graduates are well-prepared to solve complex problems that transcend departments and organizations.

7. Identify the skills you need to develop.

While a liberal arts institution like Concordia is designed to help you grow personally and professionally, it's important to keep the ultimate goal in mind — securing a job or advancing to graduate school.

Ensure that your college major will equip you with the knowledge and skills demanded by employers and required by graduate programs.

8. Ask your family for their advice.

Your parents and siblings likely know you best, so don't be afraid to ask for their advice. See if they recognize a specific skill set in you or know a career path with which your interests would align well.

9. Talk to your student academic planner.

Every student at Concordia works with a student academic planner each semester. The academic planners help you form your degree plan and advise you on which courses to take and when to take them. They will help you find the right college major.