Discover your passion and career pathway in the sciences.

Contact Us

To learn more about the Undeclared Sciences Program, please contact:

Stephen Norton
Program Director, Assistant Dean
Email: Stephen_Norton@uml.edu
Phone: 978-934-3844 

Chemistry faculty member and student work with equipment in a UMass Lowell lab

About the Undeclared Sciences Program

The Undeclared Sciences Program allows you to explore a diverse range of scientific disciplines within a close-knit community of students united by an interest in science, the process of discovery, and the applications of scientific knowledge to the world around us.  

Within the program, you'll gain an overview of the different majors in the college and associated career paths. You’ll also refine your interests, assess your values, and evaluate your strengths so you can make a more informed decision about which major works best for you.

Exploring the Sciences 

A centerpiece for the program is the First Year Seminar SCIE.1500: Exploring the Sciences. This course facilitates the major selection process through guided career exploration activities, cultivating and refining critical decision-making skills, and exposing you to the full range of disciplinary options with the College of Sciences.   

During the semester you will have the opportunity to:

  • Meet one-on-one with faculty from different scientific disciplines
  • Engage with undergraduates from the various departments
  • Participate in clubs and organizations matching your interests
  • Visit various college facilities including robotics and biology labs, the particle accelerator and nuclear reactor

bachelors

Find your program: bachelor's, master'sdoctoral


Undergraduate Majors & Minors

Minors

Summer Engagement Prior to First Semester

Professor Frank Colby of the EEAS department pointing to large, interactive weather monitor

If you select Undeclared Sciences, the program director will meet with you individually during the summer prior to your first Fall semester at UML.

During the meeting, we will review and assess your initial interests, experiences and qualifications to determine an optimal course schedule, which will allow you to explore multiple pathways compatible with your goals while also ensuring you remain on-track for graduation. 

You will also have the opportunity to meet with faculty from different science programs and from across campus if you need additional guidance or simply wish to more fully explore the academic and co-curricular possibilities open to you.

Hear from Our Faculty & Students

UMass Lowell student Albert Farah is seated at a desk while looking at a computer and tablet.
Albert Farah '24
Physics, Mathematics

Albert Farah found multiple paid research experiences at UMass Lowell.

The professors are really excited to talk about their research, and that infuses itself into me.
Read More About Albert Farah 
Mary Everett writes in a notebook at a table at a cafe
Mary Everett '18
English & Environmental Studies

Mary Everett combined her interest in environmental science with a love of writing. An honors fellowship gave her the support to write a group of short stories – which won her admission to a top-ranked M.F.A. program in creative writing.

Professor Dietz told me I was good, that I could get better, that I needed to get better and that it was worth my time.
Read More About Mary Everett 
Lisa Panagopoulos with other cast members from the movie Twas the Night
Lisa Panagopoulos ’84, ’88
Computer Science and Computer Engineering

Lisa Panagopoulos went remote and part time – and launched a second career on the silver screen.

I love teaching… so I’m happy to do that while I pursue this other passion.
Read More About Lisa Panagopoulos 
Kristin Kahla seated on a rock outdoors with a lake behind her
Kristin Kahla ’19
Biology

Perseverance and support from UMass Lowell helped Kristin Kahla ’19 reach her goal of getting accepted into medical school.

The fact that UMass Lowell offers pre-health advising to students and alumni is very important.
Read More About Kristin Kahla