Choosing a college program can feel like a big decision. You may be asking yourself, “Which program fits me?”, “What classes do I need?” or even “How do I know this program will actually help me get the career I want?”
You do not need to have your entire future figured out before choosing a program. Instead, start by thinking about where you want your education to take you and then work backward to find a program and courses that support that goal.
Start With the Future You Want
Before choosing a program, think about the type of work you might want to do after
college.
Ask yourself:
- What subjects or activities do I enjoy?
- What skills am I good at or interested in developing?
- Do I want to enter the workforce after earning a certificate or associate degree?
- Do I want to transfer to a four-year university?
- Do I want a career that involves working with people, technology, children, healthcare, business, agriculture, or another field?
- What kind of work environment can I see myself enjoying?
You do not have to know the exact job title yet. Having a general direction can help you begin exploring your options.
Explore Lemoore College Academic Programs →
Lemoore College offers programs across areas including agriculture, business, health careers, information technology, STEM, social and behavioral sciences, skilled trades, culinary arts and hospitality, and more. Program options can lead to employment, career preparation, or transfer depending on your educational goal.
Choose a Program That Connects to Your Goals
Once you have an idea of what interests you, explore programs that connect to those
interests.
For example, if you are interested in technology, you might explore programs related to information and communication technology. If you are interested in healthcare, you can explore health career programs. If you enjoy working with children, Child Development and Elementary Education may be areas to investigate.
The goal is not simply to choose a program because the name sounds interesting. Look at what you will learn, what courses are required, what credentials you can earn, and where the program can lead you.
Take some time to read through the program information and compare your options.
What Classes Do I Actually Need?
Once you choose—or narrow down—a program, your next question may be, “What classes
do I need?”
This is where an educational plan can make a big difference.
Lemoore College program pages may show a possible course sequence, but program maps are intended for reference and do not replace an official educational plan. A counselor can help you create a plan based on your specific program, previous coursework, transfer goals, and individual needs.
Connect with Lemoore College Counseling & Advising →
Counselors can help you explore career and academic options, understand degree and certificate requirements, create an educational plan, and select courses that support your goals.
Think About Where Your Program Can Take You
Your program is more than a list of classes. It can be part of the path toward your
next step after college.
Some programs are designed to prepare students for employment, while others are designed with transfer in mind. Lemoore College offers associate degrees, associate degrees for transfer, certificates, and other career-focused options.
If you already have a career in mind, look at the education and training typically connected to that career. If you are planning to transfer, talk with a counselor about the courses and requirements you will need for your intended major and university.
Learn More About Career Support Through the WIN Center →
The Workforce Internship Networking (WIN) Center offers career resources, career-pathway tools, internships and job-search support to help students connect their education with future opportunities.
You Do Not Have to Pick the Perfect Program Immediately
It is normal to be unsure.
You may discover that your interests change after taking a class or learning more about a career. You may also realize that a different program better matches your goals. The important thing is to make an informed starting point rather than choosing a program simply because you feel pressured to decide quickly.
If you are unsure, talk with a counselor before registering for classes. They can help you understand your options and create an educational plan that fits your goals.
Before You Choose, Ask Yourself These Questions
Use this checklist when exploring programs:
1. What career or future goal am I working toward?
Think about the type of work, industry, or educational path that interests you.
2. Which Lemoore College programs connect to that goal?
Explore Academic Programs →
3. What degree or certificate does the program offer?
Review the program requirements and possible pathways.
4. Which classes do I need?
Review the program information and talk with a counselor about your educational plan.
5. Do I plan to transfer?
If so, discuss your transfer goals with Counseling & Advising before choosing courses.
6. What is my next step?
If you are ready, view the Lemoore College Class Schedule → or connect with Counseling & Advising →.
Your Classes Should Have a Purpose
Choosing classes does not have to mean randomly filling your schedule. When you understand
your goal and have an educational plan, each course can become part of a larger path
toward your degree, certificate, transfer plans, or career.
If you are asking, “Which program fits me?” or “What classes do I need?”, start by exploring your options and talking with someone who can help you make sense of them.
You do not have to know exactly what your future looks like. You just need to take the next step toward it.