When you’re truly interested in a subject, you do better work.

 

The truth about majors and careers…

We have lots of resources to help you, and we’re always happy to talk through your options together. No matter what you decide, it’s important to know that…

  • Choosing a major does not limit you to only one career choice.
  • Choosing a career does not limit you to only one major.
  • Graduate work does not have to be in the same area as your undergraduate degree.
  • It’s okay to change your mind!

 

Wondering how to choose your major?

Students working at table

Take a self-assessment

Guided self-assessments help you learn more about your values, skills and interests!

What you learn may help you evaluate options and make decisions about possible majors.

Complete a helpful worksheet

CAPD’s advisors recommend a few exercises that are specifically designed to help you in your major exploration process, from collecting helpful information to comparing your options and making a decision.

Two professionally-dressed women talk in a bright space.

Chat with a CAPD career advisor

Wherever you are in the exploration process, we’re here to help! CAPD’s career advisors create a helpful, nonjudgmental space to consider majors and talk through ideas for your career interests.

A smiling man in glasses listens to another person.

Meet with your first-year advisor

It can be helpful to talk through your options with someone who understands your academic goals! Meet with your First Year Advisor and Associate Advisor (if applicable) assigned through the Office of the First Year (OFY) to discuss your options and gain advice and guidance.

Tim the Beaver waves at MIT students in a hallway.

Read up on different majors

The Registrar’s Office provides info on undergraduate majors and minors that can help you know where to begin.

The M.I.T. dome in the autumn.

Attend an open house (or several)

Academic departments often hold open houses, usually held each spring semester. You can take a look at a department’s events calendar to find possible events.


2025 CAPD FAQs for Family & Supporters

During Campus Preview Weekend 2025’s Parent Programming, members of the CAPD staff shared information with parents and supporters. View the recording and access the presentation below. Also see our FAQ section below for questions we have received from parents and …

By Kendel Jester
Kendel Jester Assistant Director, Early Career Engagement
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Exploring careers? Check out career exploration events happening this April and May!

The Career Exploration Series for the spring is now updated! This series is a collaboration between MIT departments, programs, and employers to help all undergraduate and graduate students learn about the different career and graduate/professional school options available to you.   

Visit the events page on Handshake and filter by the label …

By Tianna Ransom
Tianna Ransom Assistant Director, Career Exploration
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Employer insights: Careers in biopharma & health sciences

In a panel event held in September 2024, two MIT alums along with a Sanofi employee shared their insights and offered advice to those interested in careers in biopharma and health sciences. Read on for the summary of the event. …

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Employer insights: Careers in mechanical engineering

In a panel event held in September 2024, four MIT alums shared their insights and offered advice to those interested in a career in the field of mechanical engineering. Read on for the summary of the event. Thank you to …

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Employer insights: Career pathways in finance

In a panel event held in September 2024, four MIT alums shared their insights and offered advice to those interested in a career in the financial services sector. Read on for the summary of the event. Thank you to the …

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Featured Resources

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In a panel event held in September 2024, two MIT alums along with a Sanofi employee shared their insights and …

In a panel event held in September 2024, four MIT alums shared their insights and offered advice to those interested …

In a panel event held in September 2024, four MIT alums shared their insights and offered advice to those interested …

Choosing a major does not have to be tedious or boring. You can have a little bit of fun before …

As the major declaration date approaches, many first-year students are nervous about making the decision. This resource by Yan Wu …