Declare a Major and Stay on Track
Now that you’ve done your research, it’s time to turn your attention to the declaration process. Majors at Western have different declaration requirements. Check the Programs of Study to identify the declaration requirements, time deadlines (if applicable) and contact information. You may need to complete prerequisite courses, achieve a particular GPA, or assemble a portfolio to apply. Below you will find a general recommended timeline towards major declaration based on completed credits; however, it is beneficial to declare a major as soon as you are eligible.
General Recommended Timeline
Declaring your major early is essential to timely graduation. Declaring your major early has other benefits, including access to major restricted courses, getting connected with an advisor in the department, and finding out about major-related opportunities such as scholarships, clubs, internships, and research opportunities.
0-45 Credits Completed
Explore majors at Western!
-Take GUR courses
-Read the Programs of Study
-Talk to faculty in areas of interest
-Make a Choosing a Major appointment with an advisor
60 Credits Completed
Seek advice about your choice of major.
-Meet with a departmental or academic advisor to determine major declaration requirements, and declare a pre-major, if appropriate.
90 Credits Completed *
Apply to your major! (If you have not done so already)
*Transfer and high credit Running Start students coming in with 75+ credits should aim to apply to their major in their second quarter at Western.
Note to high credit students:
105 Credit Major Declaration Policy: Students who have not declared a major, pre-major, or Phase I major and have earned 105+ quarter credits are required to meet with an advisor or submit an online plan for declaration each quarter prior to registering. More information on this requirement can be found on the Advising Holds webpage.
Stay on Track
Now that you have decided on your major, here are some steps to help you stay on track towards major declaration and graduation.
- Meet with an advisor to identify the proper way to prepare for your chosen major(s).
- Complete the necessary requirements for declaring your major. You can find those requirements on the Programs of Study or department website.
- Declare your major with the department(s).
- Get involved in your major:
- Develop relationships with faculty and advisors in your department(s).
- Identify educational and/or research opportunities within your major.
- Seek out leadership and internship opportunities related to your major or career interests.
- Track your progress towards graduation using Degree Works.