Prospective Students

Several students in a large crowd smiling and pointing at the camera

Considering The University of Kansas but still exploring majors?

Exploratory Pathways is where you start! EXPLORE first. DISCOVER new possibilities. DEVELOP your skills and personal interests. Then, DECLARE.

Exploratory Pathways are six academic areas that have been created to help students navigate the process of finding the major that is right for them. As an exploring student, you will select one of six pathways and gain all that comes with it.

At KU, Exploratory Pathways students have an academic home in Jayhawk Academic Advising (JAA). Students will have an assigned academic advisor to help them along the way, curriculum guides, and insight into the best way to get involved as an exploring Jayhawk.

We know that being unsure about your major can be overwhelming, but we are here to help! Schedule an appointment with your advisor today!

Common Myths

  1. Being unsure of my major is bad.
  2. If I choose a major now, I won't be able to change my mind later.
  3. There is one right major for me.
  4. Choosing a major is directly related to choosing a career.
  5. My [insert person here] can tell me what major to choose.

The advisors at Jayhawk Academic Advising can help dispel these myths and assist you in choosing a major that is the best fit for you and your future goals! Contact JAA today at 785-864-2834 or advising@ku.edu for more information.

Apply to KU

Want to contact someone about becoming a Jayhawk? Contact your Admissions Representative through the representative finder tool; all you need is your ZIP code.

What does being an exploring student look like on your Admissions application?

You apply for The University of Kansas using the Common Application. 

Application section breakdown:

  1. Biographical Information
  2. Family/Residency Information
  3. Academic Interests:
  • Section A prompts you to select any "tracks' you might be interested in--typically for graduate school.
  • Section B will be where you select an Exploratory Pathway; scroll down to "Deciding" to view them!
Apply to KU!

Advising

Your advising home will be Jayhawk Academic Advising (JAA). Meet our team of advisors! We are your exploring specialists that will be with you every step of the way!

When and where will you see us?

Before you officially commit to KU, you can meet us at KU Admissions events such as Crimson & Blue Days, Rock Chalk Days, and Destination KU. Look for any Exploratory Pathways sessions! 

You've applied to KU, and you've selected an Exploratory Pathway; now what?

During Orientation you will interact with our office several times throughout the day. We host an academic information meeting where you and your guests for the day will receive a presentation and overview of Exploratory Pathways.

Your day will also include one-on-one advising and enrollment with a JAA advisor. They will meet with you in to discuss your interests, talk about why KU, and choose classes that will be right for you.

By the end of the day, you will be fully enrolled in your first semester as an Exploratory student at KU. You will leave with lots of resources to help you stay connected with us before you come back to campus.