What Is a Minor?

A minor is a smaller program of study in a subject outside your major. It involves fewer courses than a major, commonly five to eight, and gives you a structured introduction or moderate depth in a second field. Minors are common at US colleges and some universities elsewhere.

How a minor works

Each college publishes minor requirements in the catalog, such as a set of required courses plus a few electives in the subject. You usually declare a minor through a form or the registration system. Courses may count toward both your minor and your general education or elective requirements, which can reduce the extra load.

Some colleges limit how many courses can overlap between your major and minor, so that the minor adds something new. Some minors require a minimum grade or have a prerequisite sequence.

Why students choose a minor

• Complementing the major: statistics with psychology, or a language with international relations.
• Exploring an interest: music or art alongside a science degree.
• Building skills: writing, data analysis, entrepreneurship or computer programming.
• Keeping options open: a stepping stone toward a second career path.

What it is worth

Employers and graduate programs mostly look at your major, experience and skills. A minor can help show a particular strength, especially when it is clearly related to the work you want. It is rarely essential, so choose one for learning and not just for the label.

Planning tips

Start early so that the courses fit into your timetable. Check how many credits you will need beyond your major and whether the minor adds time to graduation. Talk to an advisor in the minor department.

Related terms

See major, concentration, elective, double major and degree audit.