Major Declaration

The start of something great

The major is your academic home, where you develop critical thinking, communication, ethical judgment, and citizenship while studying a subject that inspires you with joy and curiosity. It provides a depth of study that complements the breadth you achieve through the IQ Curriculum.

During your first three semesters, explore your interests through courses. Attend College events like the Major-Minor Fair and Major Decision Workshops. Also work closely with your academic advisor to choose a major by the deadline, February 22 of the sophomore year.

Your pathway to a major might be unexpected, even surprising, but if you keep an open mind and explore your interests, you will find a great fit.

 

Pathways to a Major

We interviewed alumni and current students to find out how they chose their major and, later, their career. Learn about the many paths WashU students take.

Many Paths: On Choosing and Celebrating New Majors

Read More

Declare your Major

Students are asked to declare a major by the spring of sophomore year. When you're ready, go to WebSTAC and see Academics/Major Programs to declare your major.

Declare Today

Resources for Your Major Decision

Lydia Zoells, English major and German minor at Washington University in St. Louis

Being a student in ArtSci means you’re encouraged to take classes in different areas and to have that well-roundedness, and I think it’s so valuable. Coming into college, I loved science, I loved math, and I started out really broadly. I'm not sure if I would have found my place if I didn’t have the chance to explore a wide range of classes.

―Lydia ZoellsEnglish major and German minor