What is a Major & Minor?
| ! | Message from: OOC ULSA Leadership | | (( Out-of-Character Disclaimer: This topic aims to inform you about university majors and minors in the United States applicable to characters. It is important to note that this information is not 1:1 with the real world. The information diverts to accommodate systems that make more sense for GTA: World and ULSA )) |
Preamble
The University of Los Santos, San Andreas, is an institution of higher education. You may have read "What is a degree?" and learned about undergraduate and graduate programs and degrees. Majors and Minors are supplementary components of these terms. You can browse our various majors and minors via our prospectus.
What is a Major?
A major, more informally known as a "concentration," is a focus on an area of study that determines the core courses and certain electives required to earn your degree.
In an undergraduate program, students must declare a major by the beginning of their junior year. When declaring a major, that major becomes the deciding factor for your accreditation and determines the type of Bachelor's degree you are awarded (Arts or Sciences).
In a graduate program, students must declare a major at the start of their program and cannot change afterward.
What is a Minor?
A minor is a secondary, complementary specialization. Students should consider one, as it's like adding flavor to their degree by exploring a secondary specialization, hobby, or interest.
A student can declare up to two (2) minors per degree. More than two, and we classify it as taking a dual major.
How to Choose a Major
When choosing a major, one must first ask themselves what academic perspective one wishes to pursue.
Choosing a major is an investment in what you find interesting and a showcase of your strengths. Your choice will lay the groundwork for your academic and professional future. Self-assessment is crucial in deciding which path to pursue. We highly recommended to reflect on your values and strengths, as well as the available options. Researching and assessing the job market in particular fields can help you understand their demand and suitability to your interests. Take advantage of professional services and seek guidance from academic counselors and working professionals in your field of interest. Lastly, talk to friends, family, or trusted authority figures; they can provide you with perspectives you might not see on your own.
Personal enrichment and following your aspirations are vital to making a secure, informed decision that works for you.
Arts or Sciences?
Departments of Science and Arts have fundamental differences in their apprehension of knowledge, data processing, practical applicability, and much more. Understanding each discipline helps to make an informed and secure decision. Let us break down some common attributes of each academic department.
- Arts
The fundamental principles of the arts favor a subjective, abstract mentality and open-mindedness, serving as the foundation for students' understanding of the arts and their various applications internally and externally.
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) includes subjects such as literature, history, philosophy, and social sciences. Students explore different viewpoints and develop skills like critical thinking and effective communication.
This path focuses on creativity, understanding others, and cultural awareness through discussions and research. It's a journey of learning and expressing yourself, where students dive into the richness of human experience, embracing diverse perspectives within the arts and history across our timeline. This mindset fosters innovation, exploration, and critical thought, empowering students to push boundaries and explore new possibilities in their academic and creative endeavors.
- Sciences
The fundamental principles and aspects of science favor objective, skeptical, persistent, and empirical evidence, serving as the basis from which students form their understanding of the sciences and its applicability in our ever-evolving world.
Learning becomes an exhilarating journey of exploration and imagination in the Bachelor of Science (BS) program. As a science student, you'll specialize in math, computer science, engineering, or natural sciences, where thorough investigation and problem-solving play vital roles. Within this academic framework, accuracy, attentiveness, and fairness hold significant value, preparing you to tackle complex challenges with fresh insights and innovative solutions.
By embracing the scientific approach and nurturing a curious mindset, this academic discipline empowers you to question, explore, and innovate, laying a solid foundation for a future shaped by curiosity and discovery.
Appendix
Choosing a major can be challenging, but you are not alone. Various resources are available to assist you in your decision-making process. Remember to use these services and select what feels right for you. Student Affairs is always available to support our students in choosing a major and encourages exploring different academic pathways during your time at our university. You can schedule an academic counseling session by simply emailing Student Affairs.
|
