Types of Majors

The Barnard Registrar's Office distinguishes between the following types of majors. (Please note that a course graded D will not count toward the requirements in any of the majors.)

The single major

You complete the number of required courses of one major, one that is already approved and listed in the Barnard course catalogue.

The double major

You complete all the coursework for both majors with no overlapping courses, including writing two senior essays (one for each major). This major is indicated on your transcript with an ampersand or a slash, for example: History & Political Science; History / Political Science.

The combined major

The Committee on Programs and Academic Standing (CPAS) must approve the list of courses for the combined major, unless that particular combination already is listed in the course catalogue, such as a combined major with Human Rights or Jewish Studies or Women's Studies. All others require a list of courses approved by the CPAS. Please discuss the application process with your Class Dean. (Examples are: Jewish Studies - Religion, Pol Sci - Wms Studies.) When relevant, both departments must agree on possible Distinction for your capstone project.