- What is the Division of Undergraduate Studies (DUS)?
- Do most students come to college knowing what major they want?
- How do advisers help students decide on a major?
- Do DUS students take different courses than everyone else?
- Will it take me longer to graduate if I start in DUS?
- How long can I be enrolled in the Division of Undergraduate Studies?
- I've just accepted my offer of admission, what happens next?
- I want to start exploring majors now, what should I do?
What is the Division of Undergraduate Studies (DUS)?
DUS is the academic home for students considering a variety of majors at Penn State. Students also enroll in DUS if they feel sure about the major they want but need time to complete entrance requirements. Advisers guide students toward informed educational decisions by helping them explore majors and meet requirements along the way.
Do most students come to college knowing what major they want?
No! Years of data collected from incoming students show that the majority of students across the country are not 100% sure what major to choose. Because Penn State offers more than 160 majors, it makes good sense to research some choices before selecting one.
How do advisers help students decide on a major?
Advisers in the division talk with students about their interests and strengths and suggest resources to help them learn more about academic and co-curricular activities on campus. Advisers also teach students about University policies and requirements that apply to Penn State programs and majors.
Do DUS students take different courses than everyone else?
DUS students take the same classes other Penn State students take. Students in the division are encouraged to select courses that meet degree requirements in all majors under consideration.
Will it take me longer to graduate if I start in DUS?
Statistics show that students who start in the Division of Undergraduate Studies take the same amount of time to graduate as students do who start in other colleges at Penn State. Active exploring and regular meetings with advisers are important steps that can help students graduate on time.
How long can I be enrolled in the Division of Undergraduate Studies?
Students can be enrolled in DUS up to two semesters after their first year. Summer sessions don't count toward this limit. Students can change into their desired majors before this limit if they meet eligibility requirements.
I've just accepted my offer of admission, what happens next?
You will receive information about Penn State's New Student Orientation (NSO). NSO includes online placement testing and a two-day campus visit for all first-year students. During NSO, students and families learn about academic and student-life programs, and students register for their first-semester classes.
I want to start exploring majors now, what should I do?
You can begin to explore by using some of the tools on the DUS Student website!