What is a major?
A major is a primary focus area of study within a your degree. It’s the subject area you choose to specialise in and will take the most courses in. For example, if you’re pursuing a Bachelor of Science, you might major in Chemistry, Physics, Biological Sciences or more. This means you’ll spend a significant part of your degree learning about your chosen major, gaining in-depth knowledge and skills in that field.
Every course has specific guidelines for majors, including:
- The number of majors you can undertake
- The specific subjects needed to complete the major
- The amount of subjects you need to take at each year level
- The total credit points required for the major
Check the Handbook for your course to understand the detailed requirements for your major.
What is a minor?
A minor is a secondary focus area of study within your degree. It’s like a mini-major, but you take fewer courses compared to your major.
For example, if you're pursing a Bachelor of Business with a major in Management and Change, you might choose a minor in Strategy and Innovation or Social Impact.
A minor allows you to explore another area of interest and can complement your major, broadening your skills and knowledge.
When do I choose my major?
The timing for choosing your major can vary depending on your degree program. At RMIT, many students select their major at the end of their first year or during their second year of study. This allows you some time to explore different subjects and get a feel for what interests you most before making a decision.
However, some courses may require you to choose your major when you first enrol. It’s important to check the specific requirements of the degree in the Handbook.
Tips for choosing a major
- Follow your interests: Choose a major that genuinely excites you. Think about the subjects you enjoy and the hobbies you’re passionate about. When you study something you love, you’re more likely to stay motivated and engaged.
- Consider your strengths: Reflect on what you’re good at. Are there subjects or skills where you naturally excel? Your strengths can guide you towards a major where you’re likely to succeed and feel confident.
- Research career opportunities: Look into the career paths associated with different majors. Consider job prospects, potential salaries, and industry growth. Pick a major that aligns with your career goals and offers good opportunities after graduation.
- Seek advice: Talk to a career consultant at RMIT's Skills and Jobs Centre, your teachers, and professionals in the field. They can provide insights into what different majors entail and what you can expect in the workforce. Listening to their experiences can help you make an informed decision.
- Be open to change: It’s okay if you’re unsure at first. Many students change their majors as they discover new interests and strengths. Stay open-minded and flexible, and don’t be afraid to explore different areas before making a final decision.
Can I do a double major?
It depends on your specific course and its requirements. At RMIT, some degrees allow you to pursue two majors within the same course. This means you’ll be able to specialise in two different areas of study, providing you with a broader skill set and more career options. However, pursuing a double major might require careful planning to ensure you meet all the necessary requirements for both majors.
Check the Handbook for a course to see if a degree offers double majors.
What is the difference between a double degree and a double major?
A double degree gives you two separate degrees from two different fields, while a double major gives you one degree with two specialisations within the same field. A double degree is usually an extra 1 - 2 years of study, while a double major is typically the same length as a standard single-major degree.
Do I have to do a major for each degree if I study a double degree?
The requirements for your major will vary depending on the courses you choose.
For example, in a Bachelor of Accounting/Bachelor of Business double degree, you’ll need to complete a major for the Business degree, but not for the Accounting degree. Whereas a Bachelor of Accounting/Bachelor of Laws double degree does not require a major for either degree.
Check the Handbook for specific information relating to each course.
Have more questions?
Our friendly staff at Study@RMIT are available five days a week to assist you.
If you are a current RMIT student, please contact RMIT Student Connect.
