The option of a student-designed minor is available to students whose academic interests and goals cannot be served by an existing minor. Such a minor, designed by the student to meet particular goals, must be comparable in size and expectation to the conventional minor. Particularly, it must be cohesive, integrated, and possess significant breadth and depth.
The initial proposal for a student-designed minor should be submitted to the Curriculum Committee by the end of the sophomore year. This proposal must include a reason for the proposal and evidence that a standard minor will not satisfy the student’s goals. The complete program should be presented (including specific courses to be included in the program and specific areas from which choices must be made).
To submit a proposal, students must obtain an advisor willing to oversee the entire minor. This minor advisor may or may not be the student’s regular faculty advisor, though in any case the regular advisor can obtain the required forms and help in the early stages of program planning. The program advisor will assist in preparing the final form of the proposal.
The student and minor advisor are encouraged to consult with the Curriculum Committee during the planning stages of the minor in order to avoid problems later. Proposals should be acceptable if the student and minor advisor plan thoroughly.
Approved Student-Designed minors have included such titles as Medieval Studies, Family & Interpersonal Relationships, Classical Studies, Cultural Expression, and Corporate Communication.
The appropriate form is available in the Portal under the Registrar’s Office forms site.
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