Meta-majors consist of a group of academic classes and sequence structures that present students with a broad set of career options, while meeting academic requirements in multiple areas of study. The courses allow students to explore a wide variety of career options, with the purpose of choosing a profession based on their interests, abilities, and talents. Additionally, meta-majors help promote STEM initiatives that emphasize science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) courses.
Meta-specializations can also be helpful in increasing completion rates among all students, to include those enrolled in developmental education courses, as research indicates higher graduation rates among students who identify a program of development. study within its first year. Meta-core programs can be designed to help students navigate through the confusing process of choosing the appropriate classes, providing them with a structured learning sequence and relevant course options to choose from. Students begin their studies with “entry” courses such as Composition in English and College Algebra before moving on to the meta-core study areas. It would also require students unsure about which classes to enroll in to consult with campus advisors for guidance. Students benefit from the structured focus of the courses, as well as the additional time they spend being mentored by advisors and instructors who teach in their desired career path. Examples of meta-core career cluster options include: Arts and Humanities, Communication, Design, Business, Education, Health Sciences, Industry / Manufacturing and Construction, Public Safety, STEM, Social and Behavioral Sciences, and Human Services.
When enrolling in a postsecondary institution, students will work with their advisor to create an educational plan that identifies one of the meta-major career cluster options. While all students are required to complete entry courses, subsequent courses students enroll in will be determined by their chosen area of study. If a student is interested in careers in Health Sciences, for example, they would take courses that are oriented to the field of Health Sciences, such as health education and anatomy. Once students have completed their course of study, they will be able to advance to a specific career program based on their chosen specialty.
The overall goal of meta-majors is to provide students with a clear direction to take courses that align with their intended field of study. Advisors will not only be able to advise students on which courses are most appropriate, but students will be able to set better goals for themselves to stay on the right track and complete their college degree.
