With another semester underway, it is time to think about major declaration.
Undeclared sophomores, juniors, and seniors who wish to declare a major prior to spring 2018 advising should do so by September 26 in order to be assigned to a major advisor for the October advising period. First-year students may begin declaring at the conclusion of their first year or upon completion of 28 credits (including transfer credits).
There are many benefits to declaring a major including access to department events, eligibility to take certain classes reserved for majors, and receiving a faculty advisor within the major. Further, students who declare become one step closer to completing their degree alongside other students who are also within the same major.
Below are several common questions students ask when considering which major to select.
Who is eligible to declare their major?
First-year students may declare their major at the conclusion of their first year of study at UMW (April 2018 for first-time freshmen). Undeclared sophomores, juniors, and seniors may declare at any point during the fall or spring semesters, however the declaration should be made by September 26 if you wish to receive a faculty advisor within your major prior to spring advising. All students must declare their major by the conclusion of their sophomore year (or 60+ completed credits).
Transfer students may declare upon matriculation to the University if they wish to do so. Until a transfer student is assigned to a major advisor, the student will work with an assigned academic advisor in the Office of Academic Services.
How can a student declare a major?
Major declaration is a simple process. Students within the College of Arts and Sciences, students can complete the Major Declaration Form found on the Registrar’s website. They will need to obtain the department chair’s signature and then submit the completed form to the Registrar’s office on the second floor of Lee Hall.
Students who wish to declare a major in the College of Business or the College of Education must adhere to specific entrance and declaration requirements.
Where can a student go for help if he/she is having a difficult time selecting a major or is considering multiple major options?
While some students are prepared to declare at the conclusion of their first year at UMW (first-year, freshmen) or upon matriculation (transfer students), many wish to take additional time to explore their options. Several resources are available to undeclared students including the Office of Academic Services on the second floor of Lee Hall and the Center for Career and Professional Development on the second floor of the University Center. Both offices take individual student appointments to discuss the student’s career and academic interests and connect students with career and major exploration tools.
During the spring semester, the University will hold a campus-wide major fair on Wednesday, March 28, in the University Center (time TBD). All undeclared students should attend as this will be an opportunity to connect with department chairs and program heads. The event will be followed by a month-long period of individual department events leading up to a major declaration deadline in late April.
We wish you and your student the very best as another semester begins. If you or your student have any questions regarding major declaration or exploration, please give us a call at 540-654-1010!