The college experience doesn’t look the same for everyone, and that’s ok. Some students enter college confident about their choice of major and school. Others may realize their college and major are a bit of a mismatch and opt to transfer and switch majors. While it’s a bold move to change majors and colleges simultaneously, it might be exactly what you need to get your academic and post-graduation goals back on track.
Can You Switch Majors and Transfer Colleges At the Same Time?
Every school has different transfer requirements, but the answer is generally yes. However, it’s important to take adequate time to think about this decision.
Considerations for Transferring Colleges and Changing Majors
There are a lot of pros and cons to weigh when you transfer colleges, and the same is true for switching majors. A new major might come with an entirely different workload or learning environment, as some programs are more hands-on and intensive than others. Acceptance rates, completion rates, and job outcomes after graduation are also key factors to consider.
Transferring colleges also means transferring course credits. Every institution sets its own policies regarding credit transfers. However, if you are changing to a major very different from your previous major, it’s possible that several of your credits might not transfer. This could set back your intended graduation date and increase the overall cost of your schooling.
How Do You Choose a Major
If you are planning to transfer and switch majors, you’ll need to select a new degree program before you start your transfer application. Start by thinking about your interests. What subjects excite you? What do you spend your free time doing or learning about? Consider the hobbies and activities you find engaging. List these out and see what majors correspond with these interests. Then, look into program requirements and course load. You may also want to consider potential career opportunities based on each degree program along with job outlook and salary expectations.
Benefits of Switching Majors and Transferring Colleges
Making both of these big changes at the same time means you’ll be starting completely fresh. With a blank slate, you don’t have to worry about comparing your previous experience. While you might still experience transfer shock, it’s possible these effects might not be as much of an issue since you’re not trying to pick up a program where you left off. Choosing a new college with a targeted program known for its success rate in your desired major offers a double advantage. Not only are you starting fresh academically, but you’ll also benefit from specialized resources and facilities designed to help students like you excel in that specific field.
Find Your Community at Villa
Interested in transferring to Villa? Villa Maria College is a diverse and inclusive community where individuality thrives, everyone has the freedom to be themselves, and students are defined by their potential. Our dynamic mix of majors and diverse student life activities, clubs, and athletic teams offer something for everyone.
