Exploratory Program
Next Start |
Are you undecided about your college major? Before diving into a specific major, many students begin their journey at IWU through the Exploratory Program—a supportive pathway for discovering purpose and direction. Designed for students with an undecided major and those exploring multiple interests, this experience helps students build clarity, confidence, and faith‑driven focus as they prepare for the next steps in their academic and professional lives.
The Exploratory Program helps students with undeclared majors explore their career interests and connect them to IWU’s many undergraduate degree options. With a 93% retention rate—well above the national average for undeclared students—Exploratory is IWU’s second‑largest incoming academic program. Nearly all exploratory students declare a major by the end of their first year and remain confident in that choice through graduation.
Rooted in the biblical understanding of life calling and supported by current research on purpose and careers, the program blends spiritual formation with practical planning. In your first semester you’ll take Introduction to Life Calling (LFC 150), a three‑credit course in self‑discovery, critical thinking, and personal mission. Paired with one‑on‑one coaching and advising, you’ll reflect on your strengths, values, and passions while mapping a clear academic path.
Yes! the Exploratory Program is designed so that every undecided student can find their best-fit major with confidence. Through faith-based reflection and hands-on experiences, students uncover how their strengths, passions, and values align with IWU’s many undergraduate degree options. Working closely with advisors and life coaches, they evaluate potential majors, explore career interests, and design a personalized path toward a declared major that fits their God-given purpose. Along the way, students develop the critical thinking, decision-making, and self-awareness skills needed for lasting success in college and beyond.
What Makes IWU Different?
IWU has provided education for more than 100 years.
Faith-integrated curriculum and a commitment to changing the world.
Center for Student Success for counseling, tutoring, and more!
IWU surpasses the national averages in a number of important educational benchmarks, including, but not limited to: higher than average graduation and career outcome rates. Plus, compared to the national average, IWU students receive their education with lower than average student debt!
The Exploratory Program for students with undeclared majors offers experiential classes and coursework designed to help you:
“If you aren’t 100% sure about your major, start as Exploratory—it won’t only help you choose your major but will help you learn and figure out more about yourself.”
“It’s a great way to get to know others and discover the best major for you.”
“Exploratory should be required! It has been an absolute game‑changer for me, and I cannot recommend it enough!”
“Exploratory is so amazing and helps you navigate the time of being a freshman. You learn more about yourself, and it’s a program that makes IWU feel like home. You feel like you have a place here because of Life Calling.”
