2020-2021 Catalog

Individualized Major

Students may find that the usual options for majoring or minoring do not meet their special interests or needs. Recognizing this, the College provides a unique opportunity for students to develop an individualized major within the A.B. program based upon their special interests, talents, experiences, and life objectives.

An individualized major combines courses in two or more departments based upon a theme articulated by the student in consultation with one or more faculty members. Examples of individualized majors have included psychobiology, political philosophy, and scientific journalism.

Once the individualized major has been designed, the student petitions the Academic Progress Committee for final approval of the major no later than the end of the sophomore year. The petition must demonstrate a logical coherence of course selection, including a capstone experience, and must be approved by three faculty members who represent the departments involved. Students are invited to speak with the Registrar if they have questions concerning this opportunity.