A minor is a secondary academic focus in college. It usually requires fewer courses than a major, but it still gives a student a structured way to study another subject.

Why students choose a minor

A student might minor in a language, data science, business, design, psychology, writing, or another field that supports their main goals. A minor can also show curiosity beyond one program.

Minor versus elective

An elective course may be a single chosen class. A minor is a set of related courses that appears as a secondary academic area.

A minor is not required everywhere, but when used well it can make a degree feel more complete and more personal.