When students have more than one strong interest, they may find it rewarding to complete more than just one major. Provided you can finish all degree requirements without exceeding 200 units, you can pursue a double major or minor.
Double major
To graduate with a double major, you must fulfill all of the requirements for both majors.
- There is no limitation on overlapping courses in the preparation for the two majors, but no more than eight units can be applied simultaneously to both upper-division majors.
- If both majors lead to the same degree objective (B.A., B.S., B.F.A., B.M.) and come from the same college, you earn one degree. However, if the two majors come from different colleges, or if they lead to different degree objectives, you will earn two degrees.
A double major usually makes good sense for students who have a genuine passion for both subjects, because they are taking courses for the two majors that they would choose spontaneously. However, because of the requirement to complete all degree requirements and graduate without exceeding 200 units, students pursuing a double major typically have very few totally free elective courses, and some major combinations are not possible.
If you are thinking about a double, you should discuss your choice with the departmental undergraduate advisor for each major to ensure you understand what is expected. You should also consult an academic advisor in the College of Letters and Science for assistance in evaluating this option and developing a plan. Once you are sure that a double major is right for you, you will need to complete a Change of Major petition and a Memo of Understanding, available in the college advising office, 1117 Cheadle Hall. Click here to view these forms.
Minors
Whereas completion of a major is a graduation requirement, a minor is not required. Still, many students like to pursue a minor because of a keen interest in a secondary topic or because it helps them to focus their elective upper-division units (most majors require about 40 upper-division units, but you need 60 upper-division units to graduate). Through a minor you can explore an area that’s very different from your major or one that is somewhat similar.
If you want to pursue a minor, you must speak to the departmental undergraduate advisor. As there is no formal process to declare a minor, the departmental advisor needs to know of your interest in order to set up a file for you and notify the Registrar that you have completed the minor when you are ready to graduate. Note that no more than four units can apply simultaneously to both your upper-division major and your upper-division minor. The UCSB General Catalog lists all minors offered. The Registrar’s website offers requirement sheets for all minors.
