What is a Minor?

A minor is a course of study that students can choose to supplement their main subject of study. A minor offers an opportunity to explore an area of interest further and find an in-depth knowledge of a subject matter. It is an area of specialization outside of the core courses offered in an academic program.

In high school, minors are typically not available, but they exist at the post-secondary level. A minor requires a more focused study on a particular subject beyond what is usually taught in a one-semester class. In college, a minor is a set of courses that a student undertakes to qualify for a college degree.

Benefits of Pursuing a Minor

Pursuing a minor gives a student the ability to gain more knowledge and expertise in a specific field. College is a great place to discover more about any field of interest and explore the possibilities for further career advancement. Gaining an understanding of a discipline unrelated to a student’s primary major may provide valuable skills that are applicable to their major.

For example, students who are majoring in engineering may choose to minor in business. The business minor provides students with knowledge of business principles and practices, which will be beneficial if they decide to enter into a managerial position in the engineering field after graduation.

How to Choose a Minor

When choosing a minor, students should consider their own interests, career aspirations, and the requirements of their target career. Consider potential career paths and investigate the relevant coursework. If a certain program or course sparks interest, students should research it further. After researching the topic, if it is still interesting and relevant to student’s major and career interests, then that’s a possible candidate for a college minor.

Finding out more about a minor and attending information sessions are both useful ways to research options. Additionally, speaking with people in the field and getting valuable insights from them is helpful when making an informed decision.

Conclusion

When properly planned, a minor can greatly enrich student’s college experience. A minor provides the opportunity to receive valuable knowledge and insights while still maintaining focus on their main major. Ultimately, minors are a way to diversify skillsets and maximize career opportunities after graduation.