Exploratory Studies $67,000 median starting salary of Valpo graduates
11:1
student-to-faculty ratio
Explore your interests. Discover your calling. The exploratory studies program at Valparaiso University offers a thoughtful, no-pressure starting point for students who are still discovering what they want to study — and what they want their (life’s) path to be.
98%
of recent Valpo graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate school within nine months of graduation.
Curiosity isn’t a problem to solve. It’s the starting point. Exploratory Studies gives you the time, structure, and expert guidance to find the major that fits, all while staying on track to graduate in four years.
HOW IT WORKS You’ll partner with a dedicated academic advisor, one of two assistant deans in Valpo’s College of Arts and Sciences. Together, you’ll: • Build a personalized academic plan. • Explore how different majors connect to real career paths. • Take courses across disciplines and meet professors in fields you’re considering. • Gain the confidence to choose a major that fits.
WHY STUDENTS CHOOSE E XPLOR ATORY STUDIE S You’ll partner with a dedicated academic advisor, one of two assistant deans in Valpo’s College of Arts and Sciences. Together, you’ll: • Full access, expert guidance. • Explore all of Valpo’s academic colleges with structured support at every step. • Built to keep you on pace. Intentional exploration means you’ll still graduate in four years, whatever major you land on.
• Dedicated advising. Assistant deans focus exclusively on helping you choose courses and discover your path. This isn’t a side responsibility tacked onto someone’s job. • A culture that values curiosity. Reflection and exploration aren’t detours here. They’re the point.
“As a student who was concerned about restricting myself by choosing a major I didn’t fully understand, the exploratory program kept me informed and engaged with what exactly my major choice meant for my experience at Valpo and my professional future.” C ARMEN HERNANDE Z ’26 MAJOR: English Language and Literature
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING At Valpo, exploration means trying, learning, and discovering what fits. As an exploratory studies student, you will enroll in a signature course that introduces you to Valpo’s academic programs through conversations with professors, program representatives, and working professionals. You’ll collaborate with Valpo’s Career Center, hear firsthand how alumni moved from college to career, and begin connecting your interests to real-world opportunities. Beyond the classroom, exploratory students have access to internships, research, service-based learning, study abroad, and other experiential opportunities across the University.
EXPERT MENTORSHIP Exploratory studies students benefit from individualized guidance at every step. Advisors take time to understand your goals, strengths, and questions — helping you explore majors with purpose and confidence. Professors across disciplines are eager to engage with exploratory students, offering insight into academic pathways, career options, and the skills needed for long-term success.
SCHOL ARSHIPS AND AWARDS For more information on financial aid, visit valpo.edu/aid.
ALUMNI SUCCESS
Did you know?
Valpo graduates are brilliant leaders at top companies and institutions around the world. For alumni stories, visit valpo.edu/alumni-success.
Be a Beacon Valparaiso University admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation, or religion. (For a full statement, see valpo.edu.)
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Students who declare a program of study before they start end up changing majors 2.8 times on average, whereas students who begin in our Exploratory program change majors only 1.2 times.
Take the next step toward your bright future by visiting valpo.edu/exploratory, or by scanning the QR code.
Valparaiso University Valparaiso, IN 46383 web: valpo.edu email: undergrad.admission@valpo.edu