Declare a Major

What is a major? A major is a curriculum component of an academic program intended to provide an in-depth study in a discipline or a professional field of study. In basic terms, it is your central area of study. Since students are admitted into their college’s general program at the time of admission to Qatar University, you should declare a major once you meet its requirements. But, first, follow these steps to ensure making an informed choice.

Step 1: Explore your Major Choices

Start by reviewing undergraduate majors offered by your college
Review study plans of majors you consider selecting. Study plans may be available on the webpage of the department offering the program
Consult your academic advisor for more information on your best-fit program based on your academic progress so far
Evaluate the career opportunities of majors you are interested in by using the helpful tools offered by the Career Development Center

Step 2: Identify Application Requirements

Academic majors are open to all Qatar University students provided that:

They declare and pursue only one major
They meet the admission requirements for the intended major. For more information on such requirements, please refer to the webpage of Students Affairs’ Office at your college and/or the webpage of the department offering the major
They meet the high school subject and/or academic track requirements
They pass the Foundation Program requirements, if applicable
The department and/or college offering the major approves the major declaration on the basis of the available capacity
Admission to a major is extremely competitive; satisfying the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission

Important note: If you do not meet the requirements of your desired major, yet you plan to enroll in any available program only to work towards transferring to your desired major later on, then, please understand the risks and consequences of such action. Unofficially pursuing a study plan that is different from the program you enroll in is hardly a successful plan. You might not only miss valuable advice from academic advisors of your assigned program, or jeopardize any scholarships or sponsorships you may obtain, but also fall behind in your graduation schedule. Please plan your academic path carefully in line with policies and regulations.

Step 3: Be Aware of the Application Period

Each college sets its own application period for major declaration. It is your responsibility to stay up to date with any important dates announced by your college. How do you do so? Easy! Check your QU email account regularly to ensure keeping up with any communications that might be initiated by your college and/or academic advisor. You may also refer to your college’s webpage for more information.

Step 4: Submit your Major Declaration Application

Each college may have its unique application method for major declaration, be it electronic or manual. For more information on how to submit your application, please refer to the Students Affairs’ Office at your college. You may also seek guidance from your academic advisor on this matter.

Step 5: Check your Application Status

In general, applications for major declaration go through an extensive process of review and evaluation. This process is carried by the department/college offering the major. Therefore, any decisions should be communicated to students by the department/college itself. In case you would like to review the status of your application, you may contact your college through the channels available at its webpage.