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

*Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

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

Julie Sage works with radio equipment at WUML, the UMass Lowell radio station.
Julie Sage '26
Physics

Physics major Julie Sage pursues her interests by acting in campus plays, joining the Astronomy Club and hosting her radio program at WUML.

There are a lot of opportunities here at UML to have fun, join clubs, make friends and really connect with people.
Read More About Julie Sage 
UMass Lowell alumna and television meteorologist Shiri Spear stands on a beach in front of television cameras.
Shiri Spear '07
Environmental Studies - Atmospheric Science

Shiri Spear ’07 is now a successful TV meteorologist.

I can’t tell you how much UML got me where I am today.
Read More About Shiri Spear 
Sam Morgan.
Sam Morgan '27
Meteorology and Atmospheric Science

Sam Morgan came to UMass Lowell to study atmospheric science and meteorology. He expanded his education and professional network through experiences with two of the nation’s leading atmospheric sciences organizations.

I was looking for a school with a meteorology major that was close to both public transit and outdoor recreation.
Read More About Sam Morgan 
Rigel Cappallo env image
Rigel Cappallo ’13, ’16, ’19
Physics

Triple River Hawk Rigel Cappallo ’13, ’16, ’19 went from pianist to physicist.

I really loved the relationship that I had with the entire faculty and staff in the physics department.
Read More About Rigel Cappallo