Elective
A course chosen by a student that is not a requirement for their major but counts toward graduation credits.
🎨 What is an Elective?
An elective is a course you choose that is not required for your major or general education requirements. Electives provide flexibility in your academic schedule and allow you to explore subjects that interest you, develop new skills, or pursue interdisciplinary learning opportunities.
Elective Freedom:
Academic exploration
Personal interests
Skill development
Schedule flexibility
Interdisciplinary learning
Types of Electives
Free Electives
- No specific requirements
- Complete academic freedom
- Any course in the catalog
- Personal interest driven
- Exploratory learning
Restricted Electives
- Limited course options
- Specific department approval
- Theme or focus area
- Guided exploration
- Structured flexibility
📊 Elective Course Categories
Academic Exploration
- Foreign Languages
- Philosophy & Ethics
- History & Culture
- Literature & Writing
Creative & Arts
- Visual Arts
- Music & Performance
- Creative Writing
- Design & Media
Professional Skills
- Public Speaking
- Leadership & Management
- Digital Skills
- Entrepreneurship
🎯 Strategic Elective Selection
- Career Development: Skills that enhance your professional profile
- Personal Growth: Subjects that broaden your perspective and interests
- Graduate School Prep: Courses that strengthen advanced degree applications
- Well-Rounded Education: Balance technical skills with liberal arts
- Future Opportunities: Explore potential career changes or new interests
⚠️ Elective Planning Considerations
Academic Balance
- Don't overload challenging courses
- Balance GPA requirements
- Consider course availability
- Plan for prerequisites
- Factor in course load
Practical Factors
- Schedule conflicts
- Professor reputation
- Course reviews
- Time commitment
- Interest sustainability
📈 Benefits of Smart Elective Choices
- Resume Enhancement: Unique skills and knowledge that set you apart
- Interview Topics: Interesting conversations about diverse interests
- Personal Satisfaction: Learning subjects you truly enjoy
- Career Flexibility: Backup skills for changing job markets
- Networking: Connections through diverse academic experiences
🔄 Elective vs Required Courses
Required Courses
- Mandatory for degree
- Specific sequence
- Limited flexibility
- Academic foundation
- Career preparation
Elective Courses
- Student choice
- Exploration freedom
- Personal interests
- Skill diversification
- Academic enjoyment
🧮 Plan Your Degree with Electives
Make the most of your elective opportunities: