Declaring a Major

Students are expected to declare their major by the end of their sophomore year. Forms are available in the Registrar's Office or on the Web.

This form will allow you to declare your major and if you choose, change your advisor all in one process. As you move into your Junior year, you should begin working on the requirements in your chosen discipline, and it is recommended that you plan your Fall schedule with your major in mind. You will therefore need an advisor in your major department.

What's The Procedure?

• Print or obtain TWO copies of the Declaration of Major Form from the Registrar's Office. Make an appointment with either your current or intended advisor. Discuss your academic plans and obtain his/her signature on the forms.

• Obtain the signature of the department chairperson.

• Leave one copy of the form with the department of your intended major and bring one to the Registrar's Office. The Dean of Studies Office will be notified if there is a change in advisor for the transfer of your advising folder to your new advisor.

• If you are planning to declare a double major, you will need to repeat this process for the second major.

• Interdepartmental majors require an advisor in each department as well as the signature of each department chairperson on the Major form.

• Self-Determined majors: Detailed procedures for establishing a Self-Determined major may be obtained from the Office of the Dean of Studies or from the chair of the subcommittee. Please refer to the Skidmore College Catalog for more information.

Please keep in mind that declaring a major is not binding. It is possible to change at a later date. However, it is in your best interest to make a decision and start the process now.