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.

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.

What if I don't know what I want to major in?

A student may file a "Petition to Postpone a Major". They must have a good reason for postponing, and the petition must be signed by their advisor and the Associate Dean for Academic Advising.

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.

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.

How do I declare a multifield major?

A student intending to pursue a multifield major must submit an individual plan of study to the Multifield Major 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 signed by at least one faculty member in each field, one of whom will serve as the student's primary advisor. A proposal for multifield 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 page 168 of the student handbook.

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, must have two advisors; one for each department they major in.

Can I change my advisor?

Yes, you may change your advisor at any time. If your current advisor leaves the university you must change your advisor. If your advisor goes on sabbatical or participates in an abroad program then you must change to 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. When an advisor will be gone for only one semester, the department chair or another faculty member in that department may temporarily cover for that advisor until he or she returns to the campus.

How many times can I change my advisor?

A student may theoretically change advisors as often as is deemed necessary. However, for the purposes of continuity in academic planning, students should give careful consideration to the selection of an advisor and to the decision to change advisors.