How to Declare or Change a Major (Undergraduates)

If you're an undergraduate and you want to declare or change your major, follow the steps below.

About undergraduate majors

• Major requirements include both lower-division and upper-division courses. The requirements are determined by departments and programs, and will include at least 12 upper-division courses (48 units).
• You must declare a major before you complete 90 units. Warning: If you don't declare a major by the time you complete 90 units, you won't be allowed to enroll in additional classes.

Declare or change your major

First, select your major.

• Review the list of available majors.
• Read major descriptions in the General Catalog.
• Explore majors using advising resources.
• Talk with your college advisor about your options.
• Contact the department advisor about a specific major.
• Read the Academic Senate policy on Majors (section A).

Be aware of department and college approval requirements.

• Department approval is required if:
  • You have 150 or more total units passed.
  • Your major requires department approval.

• College approval is required if:
  • You have 150 or more total units passed.
• You are required to submit a quarter by quarter plan for any request that requires college approval.

Complete the Undergraduate Declaration or Change of Major using the Major/Minor tool.

• Allow 3 to 5 business days if your request only requires department approval. Allow 6 to 10 business days if your request requires both department and college approval.

Limitations

• Some majors have limited space. If you are requesting a Selective Major or Screened Major you must complete all screening courses and meet eligibility. Some selective majors and screening majors do not allow Transfer students to request them.

•  Transfer Students: Some majors are restricted for Transfer students who did not meet transfer major preparation upon admission to UC San Diego. Consult the department advisors for more information.