Choosing a Minor

1. "What are minors and why do I need one?"

• The term "major" is short for major concentration so logically the term "minor" is short for minor concentration.  Simply put, it is a second area of study that requires about half the coursework you need for the average major.  A minor is generally between 18 and 21 credits and requires at least nine credits to be at the upper level (i.e. 300 or 400 level).

• Not everyone needs to choose a minor.  Majors that are called "Combined major/minor programs" such as Accounting, Business administration, and the Biology BS program already have an incorporated minor..  If the major you have chosen is not a "Combined major/minor program" you will need to choose at least one minor.   

2. "Do I need to choose a minor based on my major?"

Not necessarily.  There is no University requirement to choose a minor based on your major.  This doesn't mean that you shouldn't have a strategy though.  There are probably as many philosophies about choosing a minor as there are advisors at the university.  The most important thing to remember when choosing your minor is to follow your interests.  If you choose a minor that excites your interests you are on the right track. 

Here are some strategies for choosing a minor.

You can choose a minor based on your desire to learn more about a particular subject.  (i.e. "I have a real love of drawing and I want to get some formal training.  I don't know where it will lead me but I am going to take the opportunity to learn as much as I can."

You can choose a minor that compliments the material that you are studying for your major (i.e. Economics major with a Business minor).

 You can choose a minor in an area in which you have already completed two or three courses.  If you keep going back to the same department for courses chances are that the subject interests you. 

You can choose a minor that teaches something about an area that may be an interest for graduate school or a career.  

3. How do I add a minor or change my minor? 

You can either go to the registrar's office in the campus center or come to the Advisement Services Center to add a minor  or change your minor. 

4.  Can I have more than one minor?

Yes.  Be sure to calculate the number of courses you will need and verify that you will have enough time to complete a second minor.

5.  Can I double count courses between my major and minor?

You can double count courses between a major and minor under three circumstances.

1.  You have declared two official minors.

2.  You have declared two official majors and one or more minors.

3.  You have declared a Combined Major/Minor program and a minor.

Double counting between minors is never permitted but under the above circumstances you may double count courses between majors and one minor. 

See the Undergraduate Bulletin for details.