Exploratory Studies in Arts & Sciences - Mathematics/Natural Sciences

Who is this program for?

Our Exploratory Studies programs are designed for students who haven’t yet chosen a major but want to explore a specific area of interest while earning credits toward their degree.

Program Overview

For students fascinated by numbers, data, and the natural world, Exploratory Studies in Mathematics and Natural Sciences provides a pathway to explore a variety of STEM disciplines. Whether you're interested in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, or environmental science, this program allows you to take foundational courses that align with different scientific and analytical careers. With the support of academic advisors and faculty, students can explore research opportunities, lab-based learning, and career paths in medicine, engineering, data science, or environmental research before committing to a major.

Attend an Upcoming Event for this Program

These events are designed to answer your questions and give you a glimpse into what it’s like to be a part of our program.

Register Now

FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn

Not sure what to major in? That’s okay—Exploratory Studies can help.


Our Exploratory Studies programs are designed for incoming freshmen who are still deciding on a major but want to make steady progress toward graduation. As an Exploratory Studies student, you’ll receive personalized academic advising and career support while taking courses that fulfill UK Core requirements and count toward any degree. It’s a smart way to explore your interests without losing time.

Each Exploratory Studies option is tied to a broad academic area, allowing you to try out courses in fields that interest you while gaining insight into potential majors. You’ll work one-on-one with an academic advisor and connect with career counselors at the Stuckert Career Center to explore your strengths, take assessments, and develop a plan that aligns your interests with future goals. You’ll also have opportunities to attend major and career fairs, participate in internships, and explore real-world experiences that help guide your path forward.

Ultimately, these tracks help students to declare a major and achieve a timely graduation in a field that aligns with their future career aspirations. 


Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.

Funding Icon

Explore Financial Aid Options

Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.

Students meet with student org representatives at an outdoor involvement fair.

Get Involved!

Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!

Learn About Student Organizations & Activities
Campus View

Get More Information

Complete the form to get the latest updates on this program, including special events and application deadlines.

Hidden Conditionals





Things to do on this form:
Take away "Term" for Transfers - "Unknown Term"? As well as "Not in High School"
And the same for "Online"

Possibly remove the "Readmit" option.
Feel like it would be pretty easy to see if the person already exists in our system and has a program enrollment record associated with them, which would shift them from "Freshman" or "Transfer" to "Readmit"
About You




Mailing Address





Program Interest






The University of Kentucky defines international applicants as those with citizenship other than the United States of America. Exception: Permanent Residents of the United States should complete a domestic application.

By submitting this form, you give University of Kentucky your consent to use automated technology to call, text, e-mail and send physical mail to you at the information above, including to your wireless number if provided, regarding educational services. Please note that you are not required to provide this consent to receive educational services. Privacy Policy and SMS Terms and Conditions.

* Denotes Required Field
This form is not currently active. Please contact an administrator if you believe you have come to this page in error.
Hidden Fields

Future Wildcat Contact Information
























Become a Wildcat

Discover your Future

At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.