What Is a Minor in College?

When exploring academic programs, you may hear the term minor. But what is a minor in college, and how does it impact your education?

Defining a College Minor

A minor is a secondary field of study that complements your major. While your major is the primary focus of your degree, a minor allows you to explore another academic interest or career-related area in less depth.

• Majors typically require 30–60 credit hours.

• Minors usually require 15–20 credit hours.

• A minor does not replace your major—it adds breadth to your education.

Why Pursue a Minor in College?

Students choose minors for a variety of reasons:

• Enhance Career Readiness: Pairing a business major with a communications minor strengthens leadership and presentation skills.

• Pursue Personal Interests: A biology major might minor in art to nurture creativity.

• Diversify Skills: Employers value candidates with both technical expertise and soft skills gained from diverse studies.

• Stand Out in Applications: Graduate schools and employers often look for well-rounded candidates with multidisciplinary strengths.

Minors at High Point University

At High Point University, minors allow students to customize their academic journey and make their education truly their own.

• HPU offers dozens of minors across disciplines, from the arts and sciences to business, communication, health, and education.

• Students are encouraged to match their majors with complementary minors—for example, a Political Science major with a History minor, or a Marketing major with a Graphic Design minor.

• The flexibility of HPU’s liberal arts foundation ensures students can explore multiple passions while staying on track for graduation.

Example: How a Minor Works at HPU

Imagine you’re majoring in Exercise Science with the goal of pursuing physical therapy. Adding a minor in Psychology could give you a deeper understanding of patient behavior and motivation, making you a stronger graduate school candidate and a more empathetic professional.

The HPU Advantage

High Point University helps students strategically select majors and minors through:

• Personalized Advising: Faculty mentors and academic advisors guide students in choosing minors that fit their goals. Every freshman is assigned a Success Coach for individualized help.

• Career & Professional Development: Advisors connect minors to career opportunities and internships.

• Life Skills Integration: HPU’s unique focus on leadership, communication, and service ensures every student graduates with both depth and breadth of knowledge.

Key Takeaway

So, what is a minor in college? It’s a way to expand your education, deepen your skills, and set yourself apart. At High Point University, choosing a minor means tailoring your education to your passions and career goals—while gaining the confidence and versatility to thrive in a competitive world.

Explore your options: View All Majors and Minors | Connect with the Admissions Office.