Choosing a Major
At some point in your SMU career, you are going to have to choose a major. Some people might even have to choose two majors. But don’t worry- this process isn’t as difficult as it sounds. In fact, the main problem for most people is deciding what major(s) to take in the first place. TBNG is proud to present its guide to choosing a major!
Source: Singapore Management University
1. What major should I choose?
Everyone has different reasons for choosing a major. Some people choose it because they think that’s what will make them the most money in the future (hey, there’s no shame in that). Some people choose it because they don’t really know what their specific interest is in and that the major they pick will give them the most options in the future. But perhaps the most important reason you should use to choose a major is University is difficult and challenging, but it will definitely make things a little easier if you’re studying something you genuinely like.
2. What major can I choose?
Here’s a list of all the majors offered by all the schools in SMU:
School of Business:
Corporate Communications
Entrepreneurship
Finance
Marketing
Operations Management
Organisational Behaviour and Human Resources
Quantitative Finance
Strategic Management
School of Accountancy
Accountancy
School of Information Systems
Information Systems Management
Advanced Business Technology
School of Law
Legal Studies
School of Economics
Actuarial Science
Applied Statistics
Economics
School of Social Science
Political Science
Psychology
Sociology
Politics, Law and Economics
Arts and Culture Management
Global Asia
Public Policy and Management
3. When do I have to choose my major?
You have to declare your majors by the end of your first four terms of regular study, i.e. by the end of year two. It is better to declare your major early so that you have priority when it comes to bidding for the modules of your particular major, especially if you are taking a second major that is from a different school.
4. What is the difference between a first and second major?
A first major is one from your own school. For example, the first major of a business student has to be from the School of Business. You have to declare your first major as well.
A second major can be from any school in SMU. Are you a business student who like politics? Well, then you can take a second major in Political Science. Are you a Political Science student who is really into marketing? Well then, go ahead and take a second major in Marketing!
5. What does a second major involve?
Every second major has different requirements, but most require you to take a foundation module and a certain number of electives, just like you have to do in a first major. For detailed information on each second major, go to OASIS > Academics > Advisement and Curriculum > Second Major Requirements.
Choosing a major really comes down to you and your priorities. Before you decide, do plenty of research into what options you have and what options interest you.This is especially important as a change of major would cost you e$10, so consider it deeply before selecting.
Check out the modules you would have to take to earn a particular major and see if they interest you. Talk to your career counsellor. Ask friends or seniors who currently take the major you are interested in. But most of all, do what is best for you. While it might be tempting to choose a major that your friend is taking so that you can hang out with them, it might not be the best decision in the long run. Take into account your own individual aims and aspirations, and choose the major or majors which you feel will best help you reach those goals.