Many first-year students at Memorial University enter the Faculty of Science directly from high school. However, Science students must choose a major subject, typically at the end of their first year. During your first year, you should contact the department of your proposed major for academic advice on program choices and course scheduling.

Unless otherwise indicated by the Departmental Admission Regulations in the University Calendar, students are usually admitted to the department of their major program upon successful completion of 30 credit hours (10 courses). This must include:

• Two courses in Critical Reading and Writing (CRW), including at least one in English
• Two courses in Mathematics/Statistics
• Two courses in each of the two Sciences other than Mathematics/Statistics

When you have completed the Declaration/Change of Academic Program Form, see the undergraduate officer in your intended department for advice and a signature. The signed form must then be submitted to the Office of the Registrar.

Some majors are competitive with a limited number of placements. Students seeking admission to departments with special admission regulations must apply for admission using the appropriate departmental Application for Admission form after completing the specified admission requirements.

It is important to declare a major (or honours) early in your program for several reasons:

• Departments monitor the progress of their declared majors but not the progress of undeclared students.
• Some courses have preferential registration for declared majors.
• If you do not declare a major, you could lose out on scholarships and awards.

If you are a student beyond the first year, please declare your major! It is a painless process, and you are always free to change your major later. If you are unsure of which degree program to study, the Academic Advising Centre can help you develop an academic plan.