What Is a Major?
A major is the main subject area that you study for your degree. It is made up of a defined set of courses, usually 10 to 16 or around a third of a bachelor's degree in the United States, that give you depth in one field, such as biology, economics, history or computer science.
How a major works
Your program lists the courses you must take. These typically include introductory courses, a core of required courses, electives within the subject and sometimes a final project, thesis or capstone. Prerequisites link courses together, so majors are planned in sequences.
In the US, many students enter without a declared major and choose one after exploring. In the UK and many other countries, students apply to a specific course of study from the start, and changing is harder. Terms differ: where the US speaks of majors, the UK speaks of degree courses or programs, and some universities combine subjects, such as joint honors.
Choosing and declaring
Think about interests, strengths and likely careers, and look at course descriptions and what graduates do. Talk with advisors and faculty, and try an introductory course. Declaring a major usually means filling in a form and being assigned an advisor. Competitive majors, such as engineering, nursing and business at some schools, may require a minimum GPA or application.
Major, minor and concentration
A minor is a smaller set of courses in a second subject. A concentration or track is a specialization within a major. A double major means completing two full majors.
Related terms
See minor, concentration, elective, degree audit and capstone. Your major is recorded on your transcript and diploma.
Frequently asked questions
When do I have to declare a major?
Many US colleges ask students to declare by the end of the second year, and some programs require applying earlier or have competitive entry. Check your college's deadline.
Can I change my major?
Usually yes, though it may take extra time or credits depending on how much overlaps. Talk to an advisor early, and check whether the new major has entry requirements.
What is a double major?
Studying two majors at the same time, completing the requirements for both. It often needs more credits, so plan carefully with an advisor.