You've probably heard already.... you need to choose a specialization (e.g. major) before you can register as a student with second year standing.
While the process is multi-faceted, it doesn't need to be overly complicated. Below are the major steps to selecting and applying for a specialization. These important milestones happen between February and June - add them to your calendar!
1. Find Out What You Need to Know at "Beyond First Year" in late February/early March
Find out exactly what you'll need to know and do, and learn where you can find the necessary information about specializing. These sessions include key information about what makes you eligible to apply, what you need to know to submit a successful application and includes an opportunity for your questions. Register for Beyond First Year.
2. Explore Your UBC Science Specialization Options
Progressing from first to second year in UBC Science involves a bit of soul-searching, and more than a bit of planning. Find information about the skills and experience you'll gain, how you can make the most of your specialization, and preview career possibilities.
You'll notice that we've grouped specializations into categories - check out the other disciplines that have similarities to the ones you've already been thinking about.
3. Ensure You're Eligible to Apply and Learn More About Degree Requirements
Consider course requirements. Will you have completed the required courses for the specialization(s) you're interested in by the end of term 2?
There are different degree types: majors, combined majors, minors, honours. Are you going to focus on one area or study across disciplines? You can enter a combined program (like Computer Science and a second area) but most students have one specialization (a Major). Applying for a second Major or a Minor is normally done in second year. To qualify for Honours specializations, you must have taken at least 27 credits in each winter session, including those prior to admission at UBC. The timing of when you apply for Honours differs by specialization.
Investigate your top three (or more) specializations and learn more about their individual degree requirements.
4. Connect with the Experts at "Meet Your Major" in March
This is the one time each year that everyone is in one place at one time - Science Advising, Departmental advisors and senior students in each specialization are on hand to answer your questions and share their knowledge and experience. Science Co-op and other UBC faculties will be there, too. Find the details for this year's event.
5. Determine Your Top 3 Choices By The End of Term
In June, you'll indicate and rank three specializations on your application - you will need to meet the specific course requirements for each of these and you might be accepted into any one of them.
6. Apply Online In June
The Coordinated Second-Year Specialization Application opens in June each year. Keep an eye on your Distillation emails for specific dates and deadlines and additional information to support your application.
Questions? Connect with UBC Science Advising.
