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Michael Celia '27 Business undeclared

Business Undeclared

On-campus Undergraduate

Explore business with a purpose

You know you want to study business — and you want to choose the right path.

The business undeclared program at the Charlton College of Business gives you the flexibility to explore accounting, finance, management, marketing, and operations management before committing to a major.

During your first three semesters, you’ll build a strong foundation in business fundamentals while gaining exposure to real-world problem solving and career pathways across industries. By the time you declare your major, you’ll do so with clarity, confidence, and direction.

Guided exploration — built into your first year

Choosing a major is an important decision — and you won’t make it alone. As a business undeclared student, you will:

  • Meet with faculty and academic advisors to clarify your academic and career goals
  • Work with the Career Development Center to assess strengths, interests, and potential career paths
  • Participate in student organizations to explore professional interests and leadership opportunities
  • Gain hands-on experience through Charlton internships and experiential learning

This structured support ensures your transition from exploration to declared major is intentional and informed.

Flexible start. Clear timeline.

A typical course load is 12–15 credits per semester. After completing 45 credit hours, you will declare a major. Most business majors require 27 credit hours (9 courses), generally including:

  • 24 credits within the major
  • 1 three-credit upper-level business elective (300–400 level)

Once you declare your major, you’ll be assigned a dedicated advisor within the college to help you map your remaining coursework and stay on track to graduation.

Internship placements

Internships are a key part of the Charlton experience. Students are encouraged to begin exploring opportunities early through career development programs, networking, and hands-on experiences. Charlton students gain experience across corporate, nonprofit, healthcare, government, and entrepreneurial organizations.

Career placements

Charlton graduates build careers across Massachusetts and around the world — from start-ups to multinational organizations. Beginning as business undeclared allows you to align your major with your strengths and long-term goals, positioning you for strong career outcomes across industries.

Student success

Charlton College of Business mean starting salary

NACE Data Collection of Class of 2024 Undergraduate Alumni

Student spotlight

Capri McLucas '23, '24: Big Four experience

After bouncing around majors early in her UMass Dartmouth journey, McLucas chose accounting, earned an MBA, and now works in Ernst & Young's Boston office.

4th

Highest-Ranked Public Undergraduate Business Programs in Massachusetts - U.S. News & World Report
  • AACSB-accredited business school (top 6% worldwide)
  • Ranked among the top public undergraduate business programs in Massachusetts (U.S. News & World Report)
  • Extensive internship and experiential learning opportunities
  • More than 100 student organizations, including DECA
  • Access to Charlton’s 30-credit MBA pathway for business majors
  • Opportunity to integrate advanced management study with the JD/MBA program at UMass Dartmouth's School of Law

Frequently asked questions

Have questions about the Business Undeclared program? Below are answers to common questions about admissions, curriculum, career outcomes, and student experience.

Students typically explore for their first three semesters. After earning 45 credit hours, you will declare a major.

No. The program is structured so you complete foundational business requirements that apply to all majors.

You’ll work closely with advisors and the Career Development Center to assess interests, strengths, and long-term goals before declaring.

Yes. Many students refine their academic direction as they gain experience.

Yes. Once you declare a major, you will have access to the same internship pipeline and employer network as all Charlton students.

Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) Accreditation Logo

Charlton offers you the distinction of an AACSB-accredited school and the value of a highly regarded public university.