Choosing a Program of Study
Ready to make that major decision? Check out this video to get some major tips and strategies.
Career Choice
Making a major and career decision takes several steps:
- Exploring all your options
- Narrowing down your options
Follow these steps to map out your future plans.
Which sounds most like you?
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I don’t know my major or career goal. I need help coming up with ideas and learning more about what I like.
Potential action steps:
- Take ACA 122 (video link) to start exploring careers and create a plan of action.
- Take the career assessment on Career Coach to learn what programs match your interests.
- Use the Reality Check tool to learn what your salary needs are so you can compare them to potential careers.
- Meet with a career counselor for more in-depth help.
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I’ve decided on a few fields, but don’t know the exact major or career yet (examples: business, healthcare, education).
Potential action steps:
- Talk to people already doing jobs you might be interested in to learn more.
- Set up a job shadowing experience.
- Do career research using Career Coach or NC Careers.
- Look at the classes you would have to take in the college catalog - this will provide insight into what skills are needed in each job.
If you’re a transfer student, check out What Can I Do with This Major? website.
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I’ve narrowed it down to a few different careers, but haven’t made a final decision.
Potential action steps:
- Do informational interviews or job shadowing with people already doing the job to learn about their experience.
- Try volunteering, internships, or a work-based learning class.
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I've already made my career decision.
Potential action steps:
- Get experience in the field to confirm your choice by getting a part-time job or internship.
- Meet with a career counselor to create a great resume and talk about next steps
Types of Degrees
At Central Piedmont, we offer associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates. The program you choose will depend upon your plans and goals after completing your degree.
Associate in Applied Science: if your goal is to go directly into the workforce, these two-year degrees can lead to great, well-paying jobs.
College Transfer Program: if your goal is to earn an associate degree and transfer to a four-year institution, learn about what your transfer options are.
2+2 Program Options: Many of Central Piedmont's Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) programs have transfer agreements with specific four-year institutions. These 2+2 agreements help you transfer your Central Piedmont credit hours into a related bachelor's degree at that institution.
Continuing Education: if your goal is to obtain new skills to advance your career, or pursue personal enrichment, learn about the programs available to you.
Accelerated Career Training: if your goal is to step up from a job to career, explore these free, 7-16 week courses.
What Can I Do with this Degree?
Are you working on an Associate in Applied Science degree? Career Coach will show you what career options you have with an associate degree from Central Piedmont.
Are you planning on transferring? Check out What Can I do with This Major? to see what career options you have with a bachelor's degree.