Major and Career Exploration
Choosing a major or career can be a complex process requiring students to have an understating of their interests, skills, abilities and their personal values, as well as an awareness of industries. Some people pick an academic interest they love and then find career options from there. Others decide on their ideal career and then determine what academic major will best prepare them. Both strategies can lead to very successful careers, because many occupations don’t have a specific major requirement. A degree, plus experience and skills, is what will help a student prepare for a career or for graduate school.
Researching an Academic Major
- Review courses associated with that major
- Talk with professors and upperclassmen in the department
- Research career paths associated with that major
- Request Career Profiles of Manchester majors from the Office of Career and Professional Development.
Researching a career
Career research means learning about the work you would do, the education, skills and training required for the job, typical salary and benefits, types of employers, and the job outlook for that profession.
Informational Interviews are another method to learn more about potential careers.
Career Profile
Self-Assessment
Self-assessment is discovering your interests, abilities/skills, values, personality type, and decision-making style and how all these characteristics fit into careers that would be right for you. Completing a Career Profile appointment with Career and Professional Development is a great way to explore how your personality, interests and values relate to potential careers.
The profile utilizes the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), Strong Interest Inventory, and a values sheet.
For a Career Profile appointment, stop by or email Career and Professional Development to receive assessment materials. Complete the materials on your own, then return them to our Office to set up a 1-hour appointment with a career coach. All assessments through Career Services are free.
Career Classes
Earn course credit while engaging in specially designed career courses will give you an advantage in exploring careers and the job marketplace. Whether you are undecided on your major, or simply want to polish some professional skills, CPD’s courses will assist you along your career path.
IDIV 130A
Career Choices & Competencies
This two-credit course is designed to introduce students to the concepts of decision making, self-assessment, career exploration and career planning. Helpful for students who are undeclared majors, those changing majors and those exploring career applications of their majors. By completing this course, students will identify interests, personality traits, and values that will assist them in evaluating which majors and careers might be a good fit. Students will also research and evaluate various career fields, as well as hone skills and abilities necessary for career preparedness.
IDIV 212A
College to Career
This one-credit course is designed to provide third and fourth year students with the necessary career management skills, strategies, and methodologies to effectively identify and compete for internship or full-time job opportunities. Through this course, students will create a personalized job search plan with goals and objectives, learn effective job search strategies and know how to incorporate those into their own career plans, assess job opportunities and be able to clearly how their skills and experiences align with chosen positions.
If you’re not sure if a class is right for you, contact your academic advisor or Career & Professional Development with questions or for more information.
Check the catalog for availability and registration dates.