What are the benefits of having an academic minor in college?

Edited by Susan Sullivan | March 14, 2019

If you are thinking about college, you're probably thinking about your interests, career goals, and which degree program to choose for your major. But have you considered whether to pursue an academic minor? 

• According to a blog by Peterson's, having a minor in college can "round-out your degree, complement your chosen major and career aspirations, and expand your knowledge and education [in] a particular passion."

• In fact, a 2018 post on Fastweb.com suggests an academic minor enables you to specialize in an area that may give you an extra edge so that when you begin your job search you have added expertise in that area.

Be strategic when making your choice.

Before you make a decision, talk with your academic advisor. Ask whether the minor you're considering will fit the schedule for your major. And if it will help you prepare for your chosen career path.

Once we know your goals, Marian University's academic advisors will help you build an effective, efficient road map that uniquely prepares you for a great career. We offer dozens of academic minors and concentrations that will help you get there.

COMPLEMENT YOUR MAJOR. Consider how special or extra knowledge would complement your bachelor's degree.

• Business students who want to work in international banking, for example, might pair a major in finance with a minor in global studies, cross-cultural studies, or a language like French or German. 
• If teaching social studies and civics in a middle or high school setting is your goal, pair a major in secondary education with a minor in political science, history, or sociology.

IMPROVE YOUR EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES. Customize your studies to your career goals to demonstrate you are forward-thinking, organized, and self-motivated. Having broad coursework also shows prospective employers that you have multiple areas of interest and distinguishes you from other job applicants. Besides, earning a minor will give you knowledge you'll use throughout your career. 

EXPLORE PERSONAL INTERESTS. Pursue your talents and passions—if you enjoy the performing arts consider a music or theatre minor to use your creative side. If you are interested in history, consider a minor in art history. Make the most of your college experience, especially if earning a minor won't add to the time it takes to earn your degree.

DOUBLE UP! If your minor turns out to be a subject that you are super-interested in, talk with your academic advisor about declaring a second minor or major. This will allow you to integrate a range of interests into one plan of study and it looks impressive on your resume when you start job hunting.

• Examples of a double-major are pairing a major in marketing with a major in communication or majoring in both social work and public health.
• Alternatively, you might choose to pursue two minors, such as criminal justice and psychology, in addition to a single political science major.

To learn more about degrees and minors offered at Marian University, contact our Office of Undergraduate Admission at (317) 955-6300, (800) 772-7264, or admissions@marian.edu.