Would love some advice for my son who will be applying by Nov. 1. He has heard that it’s hard to get straight into a business major at UP and that folks going undecided have better chance to get in and change later. Does that mean the DUS (undergraduate studies) or Business (undecided)? I"m confused!
He has 3.7 uw, 4.3 w, and a 1290 SAT. out of state if that makes a diff.
Is this something you’d bring up to an admissions counselor? Or is it a bad idea to let them know you’re trying to game the system?!
Thx -
I’d recommend DUS with summer start checked as an option.
No one is “in” their major in Smeal until after they have completed the ETM (entrance to major) requirements. (Calculus, English, Stats, Econ, Mktg, Mgmt, Acctg, Fin with a minimum GPA). All of those ETM classes can be taken if you are DUS (DUSPMAJ) or pre-major Smeal (BAPMAJ).
Once you have met the minimum GPA and completed the ETM classes within a specific credit window (completed 44 - 59 credits I think?), you can apply for your major.
There are minimal advantages to being BA pre-major vs. DUS pre-major:
- can apply for Sapphire Leadership Program (BA pre-major)
- BA advisor vs. DUS advisor.
Other than that, I can’t think of any advantages. If your son is OOS and not tippy-top stats, then he is best to apply DUS. As @kidzncatz suggested, checking summer start is a great option also. The LEAP program gives kids an opportunity to take 6 credits and adjust to college living before the onslaught of freshmen.