Declaring a Major

When should I declare my major?

• A student who decides to declare or change a major must complete the declaration process in order to be assigned a new adviser in the appropriate department and to change the official records of the university. The student secures the declaration form from the present advisor or department head and completes the procedure by following the instructions on the form. The new program of study should appear on the next transcript that is issued after the completed form has been submitted to the registrar.
  
  
• Students are encouraged to declare a major at Western within the first year and no later than the completion of 45 hours of credit.
  
  
• Students should understand that many programs require the student to begin taking pre-requisite courses and program requirements for the major in their first semester.
  
  
• Some programs, in addition to declaring a major, require the student to complete an application and interview process before being accepted into the program. Students should make sure they know the deadline for application and understand that not all applicants are accepted.
  
  
• Many programs require a 2.0 GPA for eligibility, but students should be aware of the majors that require a higher GPA.

• Students should see their advisor in the Advising Center, complete and sign a Declaration of Major form.
  
  
• Once the student has declared a major, the student will meet with their faculty advisor until graduation.
  
  
• Faculty will assist the declared student with academic advisement, course selections and internships.
  
  
• Students with double majors must obtain approval from both departments and colleges through which the degree programs are offered.