What is entrance to major?
When first-semester baccalaureate degree students are admitted to the University, most are enrolled in either a specific college that offers majors of interest (like the College of IST) or in the Division of Undergraduate Studies. Typically, you do not enter a specific major within the college until sometime between your third and fifth semesters.
You are eligible to enter a major once you have satisfied certain criteria, which differ depending on your intended major and when you first enrolled at Penn State. Entrance to major requirements consist of three things. Once you complete these requirements, you can enter your major.
- Courses that must be completed with a "C" or higher
- A minimum cumulative GPA requirement
- A minimum number of credits you must complete
Visit the Registrar's website and watch the video below to learn more about the entrance to major process.
How do I enter my major?
Entrance to Major Exceptions
If you are pursuing a major in the College of IST that is under administrative enrollment control but do not meet the entrance to major requirements, you might be eligible for an exception.
For an exception to be considered, you must demonstrate the academic difficulties or extenuating circumstances prevented you from meeting the entrance to major requirements. You must also demonstrate how this major is a good fit for your strengths, interests, and career goals.
Requesting an Exception
If you're enrolled at University Park, you must meet with your academic adviser to discuss if you're eligible for the entrance to major credit window exception.
If you're enrolled at a campus other than University Park, contact Melissa Williams to set up an appointment with an IST academic adviser.
Each exception will be reviewed by the college's Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies and the Director of Advising. Decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis.
Updated GPA Requirements
As of Summer 2023, the entrance to major requirements for the majors listed below have been updated. The required cumulative GPAs to enter these majors at University Park are
- Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations: 2.90
- Human-Centered Design and Development: 2.70
- Information Sciences and Technology: 2.70
- Security and Risk Analysis: 2.70
You should make a request for updated Entrance to Major requirements if you started at Penn State prior to Summer 2023 and you meet the following criteria:
- Completed (or are enrolled in) all entrance to major courses with a C or higher
- GPA is less than 3.0 but higher than the GPA standard for your intended major
- Are in the credit window of 40-70 Penn State credits
