The following are standard definitions used by our accrediting bodies:
- A Major is that part of a Degree Program of Study which consists of a specified group of courses in a particular discipline(s) or field(s). The name of the Major is consistent with the Degree Subject Area on the institutions Course Reference (and Degree) Inventory (or CRIN). A Major usually consists of 25% or more of total hours required in an undergraduate curriculum as defined by SACSCOC. Majors must consist of at least 30 hours, depending on the overall credits required to earn the credential.
- A Minor is that part of a Degree Program of Study which consists of a specified group of courses in a particular discipline or field, consisting usually of 15% or more of total hours required in an undergraduate curriculum in that discipline. Minors typically consist of 18 – 22 credits, depending on the overall credits identified to earn the credential in the defined Major requirements in a particular Program of Study.
- A Concentration is an alternative track of courses within a Major, accounting for at least 30% of the Major requirements. Example: a concentration in molecular biology within a biology major.
- An Option is an alternative track of courses within a Major, accounting for 50% to 80% of the Major requirements.