Promoting Timely Graduation by Undergraduates: Twin Cities, Crookston, Morris, Rochester

How does a student declare a major?

Students should talk to their academic advisor or their college or campus’s career services professionals to help clarify their goals. Colleges and campuses have their own policies and procedures for changing majors. Some majors may require an application or portfolio review.

Can a student receive both a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in the same major from the University?

No, a student may not earn two degrees in the same major (e.g., B.S. and B.A. in Economics) from any campus(es) of the University.

Can a student receive both a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in a different major from the University?

Yes, a student fulfilling requirements for two majors within different degree structures (e.g., one B.A. and one B.S.) can earn two degrees. The student must have completed all additional requirements for the degree, beyond completion of the major (e.g., the language requirement for a B.A. degree). A student may complete one set of liberal education/general education requirements to meet the requirements for both degrees.

What is the difference between a double major and a second degree?

A student earning more than one major but with both majors in the same degree structure (e.g., both as B.A. degrees or both as B.S. degrees) earns one degree with a double major (e.g. a B.A. degree, with majors in English and history). A student fulfilling requirements for two majors within different degree structures (e.g., one B.A. and one B.S.) can earn two degrees (e.g. a B.A. degree with a major in English, and a B.S. degree with a major in biology).

How does this policy affect students who are doing a double major or seeking multiple minors?

Students who are pursuing a double major should declare both majors within the recommended timelines for declaring a major. Students are discouraged from adding majors or minors later in their academic careers if doing so will delay timely graduation. Students have the option of pursuing a second major or a minor after graduation.

Will a student who is attending part-time be required to declare/be accepted into a major by the term indicated?

Students should work with an academic adviser to develop a modified benchmark for applying or being admitted to a major.

Can the University of Minnesota graduate an undergraduate student if that student has not applied to graduate?

Yes, in circumstances where the student has completed all degree requirements, the University can clear the student for graduation and grant the degree. See Administrative Procedure: Administrative Degree Clearance.

How does this policy apply to a degree-seeking student who is not attending full-time? 

The University recognizes that not all of our degree-seeking students are attending full-time. Regardless of part-time or full-time enrollment status, a degree-seeking student who has been admitted into a major will be expected to enroll in courses required for that major and in other courses necessary to complete University degree requirements. Students who fail to do so may have a hold placed on their student record.