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Undergraduate

Selecting a Minor

Although it is not a requirement for graduation, a minor gives you a way to pursue your interests in a field other than your major. In addition, a minor gives you a way to show future employers or graduate school admissions committees the diversity of your interests and skills; therefore, you might want to think about your future goals when choosing a minor. For example, if you are headed towards business and technology, you might want to minor in Computer Science or Economics.  If you are headed toward graduate study and have a specific interest in gender issues, you might choose to minor in Gender Studies.  If you are interested in law school or public service, consider minoring in Philosophy, Political Science, or Urban Studies.  Your advisor can help you think about other possibilities, such as Latin American and Caribbean Studies, Psychology, Social Work, or Journalism.

A minor consists of twelve credits (four courses) at or above the 100-level in one department. Some departments may not allow students to minor in their fields, so you should check with that department before you make your decision.  It is also possible to develop an interdisciplinary minor with the approval of the respective department chairs and deans.  In order to have your minor listed on your transcript, obtain a Request for Minor form, available in the Registrar's Office.  Fill out this form, listing the four (or more) 100-level courses you have completed in your minor subject.  Meet with the minor Department Chair and have him/her sign the form, certifying that you have completed the requirements for a Minor in that subject.  You must then submit the form to the Registrar.

For an interesting perspective on the topic of choosing a minor, you may be interested in the following New York Times article:

"What’s Your Minor?" by Michelle Slatalla (April 20, 2008)

 

 

Long Island University

Brooklyn Campus

English Department