Change Majors
Academic paths change, but we can help you find your way
College is a time of exploration and discovery. You might find a new direction or interest that you are passionate about. Or you might realize that your dream major is not really where your heart lies. No matter how many twists and turns your academic path takes, our advisors can help you find the program of study that best matches your career and life goals.
How to change your major or add a minor
If you are already a current Hokie and want to make a change to your major or minor, review the “how to” info below. If you’re changing majors, pay particular attention to the details about restricted and non-restricted majors.
Current Hokies who want to change their major to a program in the College of Architecture, Arts, and Design may do so through the internal major change process.
The process differs based on whether a major is restricted or non-restricted.
Non-restricted majors are open to any current Hokie. If you want to change to one of these majors, you must adhere to the university’s major change timeline and process. More information is available through the University Registrar.
The following majors in AAD are restricted majors, meaning it is possible to change majors, but you must meet certain criteria specified by the University Registrar. Click on the links below to get more detailed info by school or program.
- School of Architecture: architecture (application deadline is early in the spring semester; new students must participate in the Summer Design Lab)
- School of Design: industrial design, interior design, and landscape architecture (application deadline is early in the spring semester; new students must participate in the Summer Design Lab)
- School of Performing Arts: music
- School of Visual Arts: creative technologies, studio art, and graphic design (major change applications may be submitted in the fall semester, if space is available)
If you have questions or want to talk about your options, schedule an advising appointment through Navigate.
If the major is in AAD, complete the Request to Change Second Major Form available on the Academic Advising page (link to this page). Instructions for submitting the form electronically can be found on the same page. If the major is in another college, schedule an advising appointment with that college and follow the process outlined above for students who want to change their major. Keep in mind that some majors are restricted, meaning there are strict entrance requirements and policies.
If the minor is in AAD, complete the Request to Change Minor Form available on the Academic Advising page (link to this page). Instructions for submitting the form electronically can be found on the same page. If the minor is in another college, schedule an advising appointment with that college and fill out the appropriate form for that college.