2 answers
ashley
Student
Elk River, Minnesota
2
Questions
Asked
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How do you switch majors or minors during your time in college?
If you change your mind about what path you want to go down, how do you change majors or minors?
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2 answers
Dr. Kelly Desso
Protective Services
235
Answers
Somers, Connecticut
Updated
Dr. Kelly’s Answer
I've walked this path before, switching my major three years into my undergraduate journey. The actual process will vary based on the school and the department. For some fields of study, it's as simple as visiting the registrar and declaring a change of major. But for others, it might involve a whole new application, perhaps even an audition if it's music, theater, and so on, and writing an essay. In my case, instead of hanging around for another year, hoping to be accepted into a new department, I found it more beneficial to transfer to a university that was more aligned with my desires, offering the curriculum I wanted and had rolling admissions. If you find yourself in this situation, I strongly recommend exploring all possible options for school transitions, particularly if you're dissatisfied with certain aspects of your current school. Remember, it's all about finding the right fit for you.
Amit Mittal
Officer at Citibank
96
Answers
Pune, Maharashtra, India
Updated
Amit’s Answer
Hello Ashley,
It's not uncommon for college students to change their majors or minors, and most colleges have procedures in place to facilitate this. Here's a simplified guide to help you navigate this process:
1. Self-Evaluation: First, take some time to reflect on why you're considering a change in your major or minor. Is it due to potential job opportunities, the level of difficulty of your current classes, or perhaps a recently discovered interest? It's crucial to ensure that you're making this decision for the right reasons.
2. Investigation: Next, delve into the specifics of the major or minor that has caught your interest. What courses will you need to take? What career paths could it lead to? Gather as much information as you can to make an informed decision.
3. Consultation with an Advisor: Arrange a meeting with your academic advisor to discuss your thoughts. They can offer valuable insights and guide you through the necessary steps.
4. Departmental Meeting: If it's feasible, try to arrange a meeting with an advisor from the department you're considering switching to. They can provide you with detailed information about their program.
5. Form Submission: Most colleges will require you to fill out and submit a form to officially change your major or minor. This form may need to be approved by your current department, the department you're switching to, and possibly a central student services office.
6. Course Schedule Planning: Once your change has been approved, collaborate with your advisor to plan your upcoming course schedule.
It's important to remember that changing your major or minor could potentially impact your graduation date and financial aid. Additionally, some colleges have deadlines for making these changes, so ensure you're aware of these details at your institution. Best of luck with your decision! 😊
It's not uncommon for college students to change their majors or minors, and most colleges have procedures in place to facilitate this. Here's a simplified guide to help you navigate this process:
1. Self-Evaluation: First, take some time to reflect on why you're considering a change in your major or minor. Is it due to potential job opportunities, the level of difficulty of your current classes, or perhaps a recently discovered interest? It's crucial to ensure that you're making this decision for the right reasons.
2. Investigation: Next, delve into the specifics of the major or minor that has caught your interest. What courses will you need to take? What career paths could it lead to? Gather as much information as you can to make an informed decision.
3. Consultation with an Advisor: Arrange a meeting with your academic advisor to discuss your thoughts. They can offer valuable insights and guide you through the necessary steps.
4. Departmental Meeting: If it's feasible, try to arrange a meeting with an advisor from the department you're considering switching to. They can provide you with detailed information about their program.
5. Form Submission: Most colleges will require you to fill out and submit a form to officially change your major or minor. This form may need to be approved by your current department, the department you're switching to, and possibly a central student services office.
6. Course Schedule Planning: Once your change has been approved, collaborate with your advisor to plan your upcoming course schedule.
It's important to remember that changing your major or minor could potentially impact your graduation date and financial aid. Additionally, some colleges have deadlines for making these changes, so ensure you're aware of these details at your institution. Best of luck with your decision! 😊
Thank you, Amit for the advice.
ashley