A major is the main subject a college student chooses to study. It shapes many of the required courses in a degree and gives the student's education a focused direction.

What a major includes

A major usually includes introductory courses, advanced courses, required credits, projects, labs, seminars, or internships. The exact structure depends on the college and program.

Major versus minor

A major is the primary field of study. A minor is a smaller secondary area that adds breadth or a related skill set.

Choosing a major does not always lock a person into one career, but it strongly influences the courses, skills, and opportunities they build.