Choosing A Minor At Rutgers New Brunswick

Choosing a minor at Rutgers New Brunswick is a big decision, and there are many factors to consider. All incoming students enter Rutgers undeclared, so it's important to take some time to think about your goals and interests. Do you enjoy the subject? Will you enjoy the classes? What out-of-classroom opportunities are there? How does it align with your career goals? These are all important questions to ask yourself when deciding on a minor.

Rutgers offers a wide range of minors across various disciplines, including biological, mathematical, physical sciences, humanities, and social and behavioral sciences. Students can also minor in Business Administration or Entrepreneurship if they are not enrolled in a Rutgers Business School Undergraduate Program.

It's recommended that full-time students declare their minor in the second semester of their second year, and part-time students declare by the time they've completed 60 credits. So, take some time to explore different subjects, talk to advisors and instructors, and consider your options before making this important decision.

Course enjoyment and performance

When considering a minor, students should reflect on their previous experiences with the subject. If they have taken classes in a similar field, they should assess whether they found the coursework enjoyable and stimulating. Trying out a class or two in a potential minor can also help students make an informed decision. Additionally, reviewing course descriptions and syllabi can provide insight into whether the student will enjoy the classes required for the minor.

The School of Arts and Sciences at Rutgers New Brunswick offers a wide range of choices, with over 100 minors across various disciplines, including the biological, mathematical, and physical sciences, as well as the humanities and social and behavioral sciences. This breadth of options allows students to explore their interests and find a minor that aligns with their academic and career aspirations.

For students seeking to develop a strong foundation in business, the Rutgers Business School's Undergraduate Program in New Brunswick offers a minor in Business Administration. This 18-credit program covers essential business areas, including accounting, finance, management, marketing, and supply chain management. The minor is designed to enhance students' career prospects and provide them with globally competitive skills.

It is important to note that full-time students typically declare their major and minor in the second semester of their second year. However, some programs may encourage early declaration to ensure proper course sequencing and timely completion of the minor requirements. Students are advised to consult with academic advisors and departmental advisors to make well-informed decisions regarding their minor selection.

Future classes

When deciding on a minor, it is important to consider the classes you will be taking in the future. All incoming students at Rutgers University enter as "undeclared", giving you time to explore different subjects and decide on a major and minor that align with your interests and goals.

To help you decide, you can try taking a class or two in a subject you are considering for your minor. You can also explore the websites of the different majors to find course descriptions and syllabi. This will give you an idea of the specific topics you will be studying and help you assess whether you will enjoy the classes.

Additionally, consider the sequencing of courses in your chosen major and minor. Some majors, especially those in the sciences and foreign languages, require that courses be taken in a particular order. This means that planning during your first year is crucial to ensure you can complete all the requirements within the expected timeframe.

If you are considering a second major or a minor in another school within Rutgers University, such as the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, be sure to meet with an advisor to discuss how this will fit into your 4-year graduation plan.

For students enrolled in a Rutgers Business School Undergraduate Program in New Brunswick, you have the option to minor in Business Administration or Entrepreneurship. The Business Administration minor consists of 18 credits and provides a comprehensive overview of the major aspects of business administration.

Remember, the choice of your minor should complement your major and support your academic and career goals. By exploring classes, seeking advice, and considering the sequencing of courses, you can make an informed decision about your minor and future classes.

Out-of-classroom opportunities

Rutgers University–New Brunswick offers a wide range of out-of-classroom opportunities for its students. The university's proximity to New York and Philadelphia opens doors to rich experiences and internships that can give you an edge in today's competitive job market.

Internships and Cooperative Education

Internships and cooperative education placements are excellent ways to gain real-world experience in your chosen field. Rutgers offers internships in various areas, including American Studies, Anthropology, Art History, Arts and Sciences, Biological Sciences, Bloustein Undergraduate and Graduate, Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cinema Studies, Cognitive Science, Communication, Criminal Justice, Economics, Engineering, Geography, Hungarian Language, Information Technology and Informatics, Jewish Studies, Journalism and Media Studies, Kinesiology and Health, Latino and Caribbean Studies, Middle Eastern Studies, Political Science, Psychology, Public Health, Public History, Sociology, Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, and Writing Program.

Study Abroad Programs

Rutgers also offers over 180 study abroad and service-learning programs, allowing students to immerse themselves in new languages and cultures, gain worldly wisdom, and fulfill degree requirements in diverse environments. Scholarships are available for trips ranging from six days to a full academic year, making international education accessible to all Rutgers students.

Extracurricular Activities and Community Service

With over 750 student organizations, 80 fraternities and sororities, and numerous athletic opportunities, Rutgers provides endless ways to connect with peers, try new things, and give back to the community. Rutgers is also home to New Jersey's largest student-run philanthropic event, demonstrating the university's commitment to fostering a spirit of service and engagement beyond the classroom.

First-Year Interest Group Seminars (FIGS)

These one-credit, pass/fail courses are designed to help incoming students transition to college life and explore various paths of study. FIGS offer hands-on research opportunities in areas such as humanities, sciences, and social sciences, allowing first-year students to gain valuable insights from upperclassmen and learn about the resources available at Rutgers.

Living-Learning Communities

Living-Learning Communities provide a supportive social and academic network for students to take up to three common first-year courses together. This program facilitates relationships with faculty and peers, creating a sense of community and collaboration that enhances the overall college experience.

Career goals

Choosing a minor at Rutgers New Brunswick is an important decision that can have implications for your future career. Here are some factors to consider when deciding on a minor to ensure it aligns with your career goals:

Career Exploration:

Start by exploring different career paths that align with your interests. Rutgers offers a wide range of majors and minors across various disciplines, so you have the flexibility to combine different areas of study. Think about the type of work you want to do and the industry you want to enter. This will help guide your choice of minor, ensuring it complements your career aspirations.

Course Content and Skills:

Examine the course content and skills you will develop through the minor. For example, a minor in Business Administration at Rutgers Business School will provide you with a strong foundation in areas such as financial accounting, finance, management, marketing, and supply chain management. Consider how these skills could benefit your desired career path. Will they provide you with valuable knowledge, enhance your resume, or open up specific job opportunities?

Out-of-Classroom Opportunities:

Don't underestimate the importance of experiences outside the classroom. Consider the extracurricular activities, internships, or research opportunities associated with the minor. These experiences can provide valuable hands-on learning and networking opportunities that can benefit your career. Reach out to departmental advisors and students in the program to learn more about these possibilities.

Major-Minor Combination:

Think about how your minor will complement your major. While you cannot select a major and minor from the same academic program, choosing a minor that synergizes with your major can enhance your expertise in a specific area. For instance, a minor in Entrepreneurship could benefit a major in a different field by providing you with business skills and knowledge.

Career Counseling:

Take advantage of career counseling services at Rutgers. Career counselors at careers.rutgers.edu/ can help you understand how your career goals fit with your choice of minor. They can provide valuable insights and guidance to ensure you make an informed decision.

Remember, the choice of a minor is a personal decision that depends on your unique interests, goals, and aspirations. By carefully considering how your minor aligns with your career goals, you can make a more informed choice that will benefit your academic and professional journey.

Major/minor restrictions

All incoming students at Rutgers University enter as "undeclared". The selection of a major depends on your goals and interests. Students are advised to consider whether they enjoy the subject, whether they will enjoy future classes, what out-of-classroom opportunities are available, and how their career goals fit with their major.

Full-time students typically declare their major in the second semester of their second year, although some majors encourage students to declare earlier to facilitate planning. Part-time students normally declare their major by the time they have completed 60 credits.

Students who have not declared their major and minor by the second semester of their third year may not be able to complete all requirements and may not graduate on time. Students who have not declared their major and minor by the time they have completed 60 credits will not be permitted to register for the next semester until they have either declared or met with a general education adviser to develop a specific and approved plan of study.

The School of Arts and Sciences (SAS) offers more than 100 majors and minors in biological, mathematical, and physical sciences, humanities, and social and behavioral sciences. The major and the minor may not be selected from the same academic program. In general, there are no SAS restrictions on the selection of available majors and minors; however, some combinations are prohibited.

Students wishing to apply for a change of major or minor should complete the form online.

Frequently asked questions