A minor is a secondary area of specialization taken while you work towards a major. The minor can be related or unrelated to a major. A question that comes up often is, do you have to have a minor in college? Read on to learn more.
First Off, Do You “Need” a Minor in College?
A minor is not required to graduate from college. Should I get a minor in college? Here are some advantages of adding a minor to your degree.
Benefits of Adding a Minor to Your Degree
A minor can benefit your academic, career, and personal growth pursuits. Find out the benefits of having a minor in college.
Magnifies Academic Excellence
Earning a minor can spotlight your academic efforts and make you more competitive for awards and honors. A minor can also help get the most out of your academic opportunity by:
- Providing a better understanding of skills and concepts related to your major
- Offering a chance to explore an area of study not related to your major
- Broadening your knowledge to make yourself more well-rounded
- Demonstrating your willingness to go beyond the basic requirements of your degree
Acquiring academic minors along with your major, such as communication and media studies, philosophy, or religious studies, can help set you apart.
Accelerates Career Advancement
Maximizing your academic curriculum to serve your career aspirations best is the ultimate goal. A minor has a lot to offer to further your career interests, including:
- Illustrating to employers a wide-ranging skillset, advanced knowledge, and an enthusiastic interest in your field of study.
- Giving you a competitive edge over other candidates
- Displaying on a resume to employers your diverse educational background
Imagine how you could stand out among job applicants if you acquired an accounting minor in addition to a business administration major when pursuing a career in finance or management.
Increases Personal Growth
Focusing on personal growth can improve professional and personal relationships, give you more confidence, and help you live a fulfilling life. A minor can help you grow in the following ways:
- Increase critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability skills and abilities.
- Gather more knowledge about an avid interest or hobby.
- Enhance leadership skills
For example, learning a new language by earning a Spanish minor contributes to personal growth by improving communication skills and increasing cultural awareness.
FAQs About Adding a College Minor
Will a Minor Increase My Course Load?
To complete a minor, you’ll need extra credits in addition to your major degree course load. However, if you are pursuing a related major, some credits can be earned at the same time. For example, if you are majoring in business administration and choose accounting as a minor, you’ll find that ACC 101, Principles of Financial Accounting, and ACC 102, Principles of Managerial Accounting, are required for both.
Can a Minor Change When I Graduate?
No.
How Many Credits Does a Minor Require?
18-20
What Will I Miss Out On If I Don’t Have a Minor?
You’ll miss the opportunity to acquire specialized knowledge and skills in a specific area. You’ll also miss the chance to enhance your job market value.
Will Having a Minor Make My Resume Stronger?
A minor will make a great impression when employers see it on your resume. They’ll notice the extra time and effort you spent to gain knowledge and skills for a career in the industry you chose to pursue.
Can You Declare Multiple Minors?
Yes.
Does Having a Minor Cost More?
Some colleges have a fixed semester tuition fee or a tuition structure based on the number of credit hours you take. Barton College offers a fixed semester tuition fee that may not generate extra costs, compared to others that charge by the credit hours, ensuring that a minor would cost significantly more.
Get Help Choosing the Right Minor at Barton
Considering a minor? Contact us for guidance in selecting the right minor for you.
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