Choosing a College Major

Choosing the right major is a significant step in your college journey; it’s only natural to have doubts and questions. Remember not to rush into the decision. Give yourself the freedom to explore and decide at your own pace.  

If you have not yet decided on a major, you can choose to enter college as “undecided” or “undeclared.” Starting college as an undecided major allows you to take the entry-level courses required of all students and explore different subject areas that interest you to get a better idea of what your desired field of study will be. 

A minor is a secondary field of study that complements your major. While choosing a minor is not required, it can be a great way for you to explore different interests and acquire a diverse skillset.  

While many students choose a minor that is related to their major, this is not required. Some students may view their minor as a creative outlet, allowing them to explore a passion or hobby. Additionally, employers look for job candidates that have well-rounded knowledge and skillsets. If you're majoring in engineering but have a minor in business administration, you may have more of the knowledge needed to manage and lead a team effectively. These unique skillsets can open doors to a wide range of career opportunities. 

Ultimately, the decision is yours. Don't hesitate to speak to your counselor or academic adviser to evaluate your options and explore the different possibilities.  

No, declaring a minor is typically optional. Although not required, choosing a minor is a great opportunity to explore new interests and develop a well-rounded skill set!

High school is a great time to start exploring potential college majors. Reflecting on this early will allow you to start homing in on your interests and strengths. Once you've started college, you'll typically have until the end of your sophomore year to officially declare a major. Keep in mind, requirements can vary between institutions so it’s important for you to know the key deadlines for choosing a major.

Remember, deciding on a college major is a personal journey, and unique to every individual. Start exploring your interests early, seek guidance, and don't be afraid to change direction if you discover new passions. It’s important to choose a major that you can feel excited about! 

A double major is one degree with two majors included. Double majoring can be a great option for students looking to build a diverse skillset in multiple fields. Typically, students choose fields that complement each other in some way, but this is not required. 

Some examples of popular double majors include: 

• Engineering and math 
• Political science and economics 
• Marketing and communications 
• Psychology and criminal science 
• Accounting and finance  

Keep in mind, double majoring can require additional credit hours depending on the university’s requirements and your declared majors. If you have chosen fields that overlap, it’s possible some of your classes can count toward both majors. For example, a student majoring in marketing and communications could take a course like creative writing and count it toward both majors.  

Different from a double major, students can also earn a dual degree. A dual degree involves pursuing two entirely different degrees, like a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Both options carry unique advantages. Learn more about earning a dual degree or double major.

The fear of choosing the wrong major is a common concern for many students. If you find that your initial choice isn't the right fit for you, not to worry — changing your major is usually very common. The process may vary from one institution to another, but generally, you'll need to meet with an academic advisor and complete the necessary steps and requirements. 

It's perfectly fine not to have it all figured out on day one. Many students start college as "undecided,", which simply means they have not declared a specific major. Entering college undecided gives you time to explore various subjects and discover your passions, strengths, and interests. Keep in mind, it is advised you declare and major by the end of sophomore year. This doesn't mean you can't change your mind later on, but having a declared major helps streamline your academic path and ensures you're on the right track to graduate.

There are four main types of college degrees that students can earn: Associate Degree, Bachelor's Degree, Master's Degree, and Doctoral Degree. Other degree programs include Joint Degree Programs and Certificate Programs. Learn more about these degrees and programs.