Declaring a Major or Minor

Luther College's liberal education balances the breadth symbolized in the general requirements with the depth possible in an individual major. Each major incorporates a body of knowledge, a methodology, applications, and ethical concerns. Each student must complete one major according to catalog specifications, earning a C average (2.00) or better in the number of hours required in the major. The specific requirements for the various majors are listed under each department in the catalog.

Students may designate a minor field of specialization, although minors are not required for graduation. The requirements for academic minors are described in the catalog.

To declare a major or minor, complete the Major/Minor Declaration form. Once declared, the major and/or minor will appear on the student program evaluation. Notify the Registrar’s Office (via the major/minor declaration form) of changes to majors and minors to keep the program evaluation accurate.

Individualized Interdisciplinary Major

A student may propose an individualized interdisciplinary major, developed in consultation with a faculty advisor. An interested student should complete the application form.

An individualized interdisciplinary major proposal should have sufficient depth in at least two of the disciplines involved to achieve a degree of familiarity with the philosophy, methods, and knowledge base which is at least as great as a person minoring would develop. The courses selected should have a coherent relationship to each other, and the proposal should explain the reasons for the courses chosen and how they fit together.

The individualized interdisciplinary major should meet the following criteria:

1. GPA: Applicants should have at least a 3.00 GPA at the time the proposal is submitted. (A person whose GPA is lower than 3.00 may petition for an exception, providing a rationale for the request).
2. Number of credits: The proposed major is expected to have a minimum of 30 credit hours and no more than 40. At least 16 credit hours must be courses numbered above 300.
3. Approval: The proposal must be approved by a faculty advisor in consultation with the heads of the departments from which the courses are drawn.
4. Submission date: The proposal must be submitted to the registrar prior to December 1 of the student's junior year.