A Guide to Majors, Double Majors, Minors, and Concentrations
College isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey—and your degree doesn’t have to be either. From combining two areas of study to adding specialized skills, there are several ways to shape an academic path that reflects who you are and where you want to go.
In this guide, we explore the difference between a major, double major, minor, and concentration; what each path offers; and how to build a degree that’s truly your own.
Majors, Double Majors, Minors, and Concentrations: A Quick Breakdown
At St. John’s, a major is your primary field of academic study, comprising a structured set of courses that lead to a bachelor’s degree. For example, you may major in Biology, Business, English, or Psychology, but your academic journey doesn’t have to stop there. Many students personalize their education by adding a second major, minor, or concentration based on their goals and interests.
To help you better understand these academic options, the following definitions are provided by the Office of Undergraduate Admission.
What Is a Double Major?
A double major means completing the requirements for two separate majors within the same degree. For example, a student might double major in English and History, earning one bachelor’s degree that includes both fields.
What Is a Minor?
A minor is a secondary area of academic focus that requires fewer courses than a major. St. John's offers a variety of minors, such as Business Law and Public Administration.
What Is a Concentration?
A concentration is a specialized track within a major, allowing students to focus on a particular subfield. Specific concentrations available can typically be found in the academic program listings on the university’s website.
How They Compare
In short: your major is your foundation, a double major deepens your expertise across two fields, a minor complements your primary focus with a secondary interest, and a concentration lets you specialize within your chosen major. Each option offers a unique way to customize your college experience—and carve a path that’s truly your own.
The Benefits of Customizing Your Degree
Personalizing your degree path offers significant advantages. It allows you to expand your skill set, broaden your knowledge across fields, and stay motivated by studying what truly excites you. A customized degree also helps boost career readiness by building versatility—something employers and graduate programs look for.
In a world where industries are evolving faster than ever, an interdisciplinary or specialized education can open up pathways you may not have considered. Plus, following your interests often leads to a more fulfilling college experience.
Choosing the Right Path for You
Start by reflecting on your passions. What subjects naturally grab your attention inside and outside the classroom? Then, think about your long-term goals: How might this combination of studies position you for internships, careers, or graduate programs?
It’s also important to be realistic about your workload. Taking on more areas of study may require an additional layer of time management skills. That’s why meeting with an academic adviser early is key. Advisers can help map out a plan that keeps you on track without overwhelming you. And remember, you don’t have to decide everything right away. Many students explore different options during their first year or two before committing.
Real-World Example: How a St. John’s Student Shapes Her Academic Path
Many St. John’s University students take advantage of customizable degree options to meaningfully shape their college experience. Leslie Alhakim ’24C is a prime example. Now a graduate student pursuing a master’s in Data Science, Leslie previously earned a B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Social Justice: Theory and Practice in the Vincentian Tradition—an intentional academic path that reflects both her personal passions and professional aspirations.
“I pursued a degree in psychology because I wanted to understand people better,” Leslie shared. “I’ve always loved helping others, but I needed the foundation in psychology to be there for them.”
Her decision to attend St. John’s was also shaped by her acceptance into the Ozanam Scholars Program, which required her to minor in Social Justice. “That was actually what drew me in,” she said. “In high school, I wanted to be a social justice advocate, but I didn’t believe I had the resources or knowledge to make a genuine change. With both psychology and social justice theory, I could finally develop the necessary foundation to create something great.”
This blend of academic interests not only enhanced Leslie’s personal growth—it shaped her identity as a researcher and advocate. “Throughout my social justice courses, I realized I had already been exposed to much of the material through my lived experience and the experiences of those close to me. The program gave me the vocabulary and theoretical foundation to explain those experiences and bring them into research and higher education spaces,” she said. “With these tools, I finally felt heard and understood, which I want to bring to others who do not have the opportunity to study social justice in higher education.”
Her interdisciplinary background has also opened up professional doors. “My minor gave me many career opportunities because it showed employers my cross-sectional abilities and understanding,” Leslie continued. “Being able to tie in both psychology and social justice with my master’s in data science demonstrates how I can succeed across disciplines.”
Today, she conducts research that addresses disparities in health care—drawing on her psychology training, social justice framework, and data science skills to craft impactful, equity-focused solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can you double major and have a minor?
Yes! Many colleges allow students to pursue a double major and a minor; it is dependent on your ability to manage the course load and meet graduation requirements on time. Academic advising is key.
How many minors can you have in college?
Most schools allow one or two minors, but policies vary. It’s important to check with your academic adviser and ensure you can complete the necessary credits without delaying graduation.
Does double majoring cost more?
Not always. If both majors fit within the typical number of credits for your degree and you graduate on time, there may be no additional tuition cost. However, if it requires extra semesters, that could increase expenses.
Double major vs dual degree?
A double major results in one degree with two majors (e.g., B.A. in English and Sociology).
A dual degree means earning two separate degrees (e.g., a B.A. and a B.S.), which usually requires more coursework and may take longer to complete.
Plan a Degree Path That Reflects You
Choosing a major, minor, or concentration means creating an academic journey that feels exciting, meaningful, and full of potential. Most importantly, trust that you’re building something that fits you. There’s no “right” way—only the right way for your personal goals.
With support and flexibility at every turn, St. John’s University helps you design a college journey tailored to your interests and ambitions.
Build Your St. John’s Academic Pathway.
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