Frequently Asked Questions
When do I have to declare my major?
Students are required to declare their major during the second semester of their sophomore year or if they have accumuated 12.0 (or more) units, toward graduation.This is the functional requirement, but you should be weighing possibilities before this, talking to advisors and eachers, asking upperclass students about what's involved in possible majors.
How do I declare my major?
In the early part of the spring semester of your sophomore year, Academic Advising will send you a packet of information regarding majors. It will include a major declaration card. You need to obtain the signatures of your new major advisor in the department and the chair of the major department. Early in February, too, the Sophomore Council sponsors a Majors Fair--at this event the departments and programs send representatives to talk about the major, answer questions, and give you other pertinent information.
Also, many of the departments hold meetings during Major Declaration Week, to explain what is required to major in their department. At that time you may ask questions and get a better understanding of what that particular academic field of study requires and how it can be used after graduation.
What if I don't know what I want to major in?
Declaring a major at the end of your Sophomore year is really only an initial commitment; it is possible to change your major at any time, but certainly early in the Junior year in most instances.
When can I declare a minor?
A minor cannot be declared before you have declared your major with the exception of an education minor. You can declare your minor up until the last semester of your senior year, but it is better to declare minors sooner rather than later. Like any course of study, a minor is better planned than just happened upon.
How do I declare a multifield major?
A student intending to pursue a multifield major must submit an individual plan of study to the Academic Advising Committee. The proposed program must detail an integrated plan of study for the junior and senior years that incorporates course work from a minimum of two departments or fields. The proposal must be supported by at least one faculty member in each field, one of whom will serve as the student's primary advisor. Multifield proposals should be submitted during the student's sophomore year and no later than the third week of the second semester of the junior year. For further information see either the Catalog or the Student Handbook and then make an appointment to see the Associate Dean for Academic Advising, who coordinates the Multifield major.
I’m a senior. When is my deadline to make changes or add a minor?
Seniors may make changes to their majors and/or minors until the first week in April of their senior year.
How many advisors can I have?
Students may have two advisors. Students who have a single major may still have two advisors. Students with double majors, or a combined major, must have two advisors; one from each department involved.
Can I change my advisor?
Yes, you may change your advisor at any time. While it is only practical that the university assign you your first advisor arbitrarily, once you are here you need to seek and secure your own advice. So if your current advisor leaves the university for a semester or year, or leaves altogether, students are encouraged to find their own new advisor. This is your education, so you need to direct it yourself. A new advisor is very much a part of this, and you need an advisor who will be on campus. When your former advisor returns to campus, you may change back to that advisor with the advisor's permission. For students who have declared majors, the department chair or another faculty member in the major department may temporarily cover for the advisor until he or she returns to the campus. This is the department chair's decision.
How many times can I change my advisor?
A student may change advisors as often as she or he decides to. But for the purposes of continuity, confidence, and a better education, students should give careful consideration to the selection of an advisor. You need to find someone you are comfortable with, who understands you and your personal directions, and who will share the challenges you face as you proceed toward your degree. Work to find the right person as early in the process as possible.
