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Changing Your Major

A focus of study is an important part of your college experience. If your interests and goals change, consider changing your major.

You’re Not Alone

Many students change majors during their college experience. Choosing a different major might be the right choice to help you finish a degree sooner or prepare for a career you’ll love. While it is best to decide early on a major, it is normal to explore major options at some point.
An academic advisor counsels a student about changing her major.

You’re Not Alone

Many students change majors during their college experience. Choosing a different major might be the right choice to help you finish a degree sooner or prepare for a career you’ll love. While it is best to decide early on a major, it is normal to explore major options at some point.
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BYU-Idaho offers over 90 degrees. Find a major that is right for you.

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Considerations Before Changing a Major

How Close Are You to Graduation?
If you are still at the beginning of your college education, changing a major might have little effect on your degree and graduation, but changing a major later will cost you significant time and money. Lost tuition, missed career opportunities and wages, and extended time to earn a degree can affect your future career and family. Evaluate all of your opportunity costs when considering a major change.
How Many Credits Have You Already Earned?
The more credits you’ve earned, the fewer options you have to change a major. There are credit limits at BYU-Idaho. Feel free to visit with an academic advisor to see if changing your major is an option.
How Will Changing Your Major Impact Your Financial Aid?
Be sure to understand how changing your major might impact any federal financial aid you receive and when deadlines are for you to change your major.
Will Changing Your Major Make the Difference You Expect?
How well will a new major propel you toward your future goals? If you are not sure about your goals after graduation, schedule an appointment with a career counselor to identify your purpose and career path.
Do You Know All Your Options?
If you’re unsure if you are in the right major, talk with an academic advisor or visit with your professor.

How to Change Your Major

If you are considering a change of major, use Grad Planner to create a new alternate plan or change your major. Grad Planner clearly outlines your completed credits, requirements for alternative majors, and how to officially change your major.

How to Create an Alternate Plan in Grad Planner

The first step is to create an alternate plan in Grad Planner. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create an alternate plan. You'll find helpful tools to make the best decision for a new major.

Go to Grad Planner
Get Your Alternate Plan Approved
After you submit your alternate plan, Grad Planner will automatically check your plan and ensure you’ve got all the requirements you need. If all requirements are covered, your plan will be approved, and you will be able to officially change your major.
Change Your Major
Once your alternate plan is approved, you will be asked if you would like to change your major. If you indicate you want to change, your new major is officially declared and will change. 

Get Help

Meet with an advisor who can assist with your specific interests and needs.
Meet With An Advisor
Meet with an advisor by scheduling an appointment through I-Plan.

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Call Advising Office
Call the Advising Office with questions or schedule an appointment at (208) 496-1411.

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