Choosing a major at the age of 17 or 18 is usually not easy – and switching majors in college is common. In fact, most students change their major two to three times before graduating.
While this is sometimes necessary and a healthy way to explore interests, families are often unaware that it can have a major impact on graduation date and overall cost. It is usually not a consideration in the planning process for college financing prior to choosing a college.
The potential increase in cost may not be a reason to dismiss the thought of changing majors especially if it will truly be a better path for the student. However, it is wise to anticipate the potential changes in cost and time to graduation.
Here is what to consider when talking about potential major changes.
Lost Time- Extra Semesters
This can be the biggest factor in changing majors. Adding extra semesters involves more cost.
Many majors have different core requirements and sequences of courses. Switching into a specified major such as nursing, engineering, or education for example requires foundational courses that are often different for each. Changing to a very different major can create the need for:
- An additional semester
- An additional full year
- Sometimes certain courses are only offered one semester per year
We all know college costs are high, and an extra semester can cost anywhere from $12,000-$25,000 or possibly much more depending on the school.
Losing Credit for Courses Already Taken
Families often assume that if a student stays at an institution, prior coursework will apply to a change in major, but that is not always the case.
A change in major can cause:
- Electives that no longer satisfy major requirements
- Lost credit toward major prerequisites
- Credits that count toward graduation, but not the new degree
Program GPA Requirements
Many competitive majors require higher GPAs for admission to the program and if admission is delayed, students may not be able to enter the program later, or may be required to retake courses or take courses that do not count toward graduation.
Effects on Scholarships and Financial Aid
Some scholarships are tied to:
- Being in a specific major
- Taking a minimum number of major-related credits
- Tuition waivers- tied to majors
- Departmental Awards- tied to majors
Emotional Impact: Pressure, Stress and Confidence
Considering the financial impact matters of course, but there are the emotional impacts on the student to consider:
- Exploring career options in high school
- Getting involved as a volunteer or in a program or business that you are interested in
- Speaking to adults in your family and friend circle who work in your desired profession
- Consider self-interests and not just popular majors
- Your first year in college- find a great advisor and take advantage of their expertise and advice
All this information is not to say that switching majors is a sign of poor planning or failure, but rather to encourage consideration early in the process to help avoid some of the potential challenges and costs later.
The bottom line is that with the significant investment in a college education it is important for students to be in a major that will help them lead a successful and happy career after graduation.