Exploratory Studies in Education
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
Students who are passionate about teaching, educational leadership, or child development but need time to explore their options should consider this program. It is an excellent choice for future educators, school administrators, or instructional designers looking to impact learning and education policy.
Program Overview
Thinking about a career in education but unsure of your focus? Explore teaching, educational policy, special education, and instructional design while gaining valuable classroom and leadership experience. For students passionate about teaching, educational leadership, or child development, Exploratory Studies in Education provides a supportive starting point. Through coursework in education theory, psychology, and classroom management, students gain exposure to different career paths in education. Advisors work closely with students to help them determine if they want to pursue a teaching certification, special education, educational policy, or other related fields.
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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.
Admission Requirements
- Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
- Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.
Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.
Application Requirements
Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).
Application Deadlines
Freshman
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Early Action
- 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
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Regular Decision
- 02/15/2026
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.
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!
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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.
