The Academic Exploration Program is designed to assist students who have not yet decided on a specific academic academic major and are exploring multiple program options. It provides the time and opportunity for students to explore their interests and test their aptitudes. It supports this exploration through academic advisors who are trained to assist students in making thoughtful academic decisions.

A large percentage of college students are undecided at some level. This conclusion is supported by national research and experience at University of Detroit Mercy. Between 55 and 65 percent of all college students change their majors at least once before the end of the sophomore year.

There are different levels and types of exploration. While some students enter college with no idea of the area in which they want to major, others are exploratory because they have interests and aptitudes in two or more academic areas. Still others have academic and career interests which have not been tested through their earlier academic experiences. These students need time to explore a variety of disciplines and trained advisors to help them make this exploration productive.

To support student explorations, the program offers two courses: AEP 100-Academic Exploration and AEP 200-Academic Alternatives. AEP 100 is designed for first semester freshman. AEP 200 serves new transfer students and nonfreshman who are undecided or in the process of changing majors. Through these courses, students examine the academic programs available at UDM and they receive training in goal setting, decision-making, and academic planning. AEP advisors then assist students in scheduling coures term-by-term in order to keep selected options open.

Participants in the Academic Exploration Program and its courses is voluntary. Students who are interested in the program should contact a UDM admissions counselor.