You might already have a college major in mind, but have you thought about a college minor? Declaring a minor isn’t required, but many students choose to pursue a minor to fulfill a personal interest, explore a related field, or for other reasons. While each college and university has its own requirements, completing a minor may require logging around 18 credit hours.
If you’re wondering, “Are college minors worth it,” we’ll explore the pros and cons of declaring a minor below.
Pro: Supplement Your Knowledge
College students often choose to pursue a minor to explore a field that complements their major. For instance, a psychology major interested in social issues might opt for a minor in sociology to complement their degree. Having the additional context that comes with exploring a related field can offer a different perspective that’s useful before and after graduation.
Con: Additional Courses
While exploring a field complementary to your major can be beneficial, that opportunity comes with additional courses. This means you’ll have more studying to do, papers to write, and tests to take. Even if you’re not easily overwhelmed, the additional courses could be an added stressor.
Pro: Looks Good on Your Resume
Picking up a minor in addition to your major could look good on your resume after college. Not only can it show prospective employers that you’re a hard worker, but it can also signal well-roundedness. The knowledge you gain from your minor could make you a good fit for roles outside of those specific to your major.
Con: Added Costs
With additional college courses come additional costs. So if you’re wondering, “Is a minor worth it,” the cost of tuition and room and board is an important consideration. Before you declare a minor, take the time to calculate the length of time it will add to your college education. Explore whether the added costs are worth it to you.
Pro: Pursue a Passion
Maybe you’re excited about your major, but you’ve always been passionate about a particular subject or field that isn’t related to it. If this is the case, picking up a minor will let you pursue that passion, even if you aren’t particularly interested in a career in that field. For instance, if you’re a business major that’s always loved history, pursuing a minor in history could be very fulfilling.
Con: Different Locations
If you’ve declared a major, chances are your courses are mostly in one or two buildings. While your minor might be personally fulfilling, chances are your courses aren’t going to be in the same place if it’s unrelated to your major. You could end up taking courses all the way across campus or at a different campus entirely, so you’ll need to consider this as you’re thinking, “Should I minor in something?”
The Bottom Line
Picking up a minor in addition to your major could benefit a few ways. But in addition to the benefits, there are a few drawbacks to consider before you get started. Make sure to think about the added workload, costs, and other factors that come with pursuing a minor. Doing so will help you make an informed decision about your ideal college experience.
