What does 'major' mean in college?

Hey everyone, I'm kinda new to this whole college thing, and I keep hearing about 'majoring' in something. Can someone explain what that actually means, and how choosing a major works when applying to college?

Hi there! The term "major" in a college context refers to the primary area of academic study that a student chooses to focus on during their undergraduate years. A major typically consists of a set of required courses and electives centered around a specific subject or field. By completing these courses, students gain an in-depth knowledge of their chosen subject and, upon graduation, receive a degree in that area.

When applying to college, some schools will ask you to declare your intended major on your application, while others may not require you to select a major until you've completed a certain amount of coursework or reached a specific point in your college career (like your sophomore year). Keep in mind that declaring an intended major as a freshman is not set in stone – many students change their majors during their college years as they discover new interests or passions.

It's worth noting that there are also "undecided" or "undeclared" options for students who are unsure of their future major. This option allows you to explore various subjects in your first year or two before committing to a specific field of study. Additionally, some colleges offer double majors, which means you can study two subjects in-depth, or minors, which are secondary, less intensive areas of study alongside your primary major.

In summary, a major is the primary area of academic focus during college, and choosing a major will guide your course selections and the direction of your academic career. Declaring a major when applying to college is not always mandatory, and it's common for students to change their majors or declare it later. It's essential to explore your interests to make the best decision for you. Good luck!