Program Overview

Overview of the Exploratory Program at Xavier University

The Exploratory Program at Xavier University is designed for curious, open-minded students who want to discover their passions and find the perfect academic and career path. With over 80 undergraduate programs, the possibilities are endless, and the dedicated support system will be with students every step of the way.

Program Features

• Explore multiple fields of study: Xavier's robust Core Curriculum serves as an ideal launchpad for exploration, offering engaging, interdisciplinary courses across the humanities, sciences, and social sciences.
• Core curriculum: The program provides a solid foundation for students to explore their interests and passions.
• Personal support team: Every Exploratory student benefits from a dedicated team of expert advisors, including a Career Coach, Success Coach, Academic Advisor, and Financial Aid Advisor.
• Seamless transition to a major: By the sophomore year, with the guidance of the support team and the knowledge gained from exploratory coursework, students will be well-prepared and confident to declare one or more of Xavier's 80+ academic programs.

Four-Year Guide

The program is structured to provide a clear pathway for students to explore and discover their academic and career goals. The four-year guide includes:

First Year

• Participate in the First-Year Seminar program.
• Talk to an academic advisor to learn more about the range of majors available at Xavier and/or career opportunities.
• Visit the Career Development office to discuss interests, abilities, and goals.

Sophomore

• Declare a major.
• Request a professional mentor.
• Start to develop a résumé.

Junior

• Enhance career and leadership skills.
• Get involved in internships, volunteer work, and study abroad programs.

Senior

• Launch steps toward post-graduation goals.
• Finalize a resume.
• Start interviewing for a job or completing plans for graduate school.

Choosing a Major

At Xavier, Exploratory students are celebrated. Opportunities are endless, and the Xavier support system is excited to be a part of the journey students take to find their calling. The university provides advice on what to think about when choosing a major, as well as what makes the academic experience at Xavier unique.

Success Model

Xavier University offers a unique ecosystem of support for students through its Student Success Model. Through this model, every student has their own:

• Success Coach to act as a quarterback to help through the transition and adjustment to college life.
• Academic Advisor who is typically a faculty member to assist with course selection and an academic plan.
• Career Coach to assist with resume development, career fair preparation, and building professional connections to employers and internships.
• Financial Aid Advisor to ensure that aid is always properly applied and fully optimized.

Discerning Your Unique Calling

At Xavier, the Jesuit tradition encourages deep reflection, critical thinking, and a commitment to making a difference in the world. The university believes in a holistic education that empowers students to discern their calling.

FAQ

• How do I know what major is right for me? Choosing an area of study can feel overwhelming, but many students take time to choose or change their major multiple times. At Xavier, Success Coaches can help students stay on track to find a major that they will enjoy studying.
• How can I get experience in a field I'm interested in? Internships, volunteer work, and connecting with a mentor are great ways to gain experience in a field and see if it's a good fit.
• When do I need to declare my major? Xavier typically requires students to declare a major by the end of their sophomore year.
• Does Xavier offer an honors program? Yes, there are two honors programs depending on the major declared: the University Scholars Honors Program and the Smith Scholars Honors Program.

About Xavier University

Xavier University is a private university located in Cincinnati, Ohio, providing a liberal arts education in the Jesuit Catholic tradition. Founded in 1831, the University is the sixth-oldest Catholic university in the nation. It has been ranked among the top 10 master's-level universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report for the past two decades. The Princeton Review names it one of the "Best 385 Colleges in America."