<p>So I've always loved learning about the history of science and my school offers a pretty good program in that subject. I was thinking about minoring in it since most of the courses will easily fit into my schedule and given how obscure the history of science is as an academic discipline, all of the classes are small (eg less than 25 people). On the other hand, I have many other academic interests and would love to at least take an intro course in them even if I have no desire to go beyond that. I'd love to learn more about accounting, philosophy, and international relations although if I were to take courses in those fields, I wouldn't be able to explore the history of science. By the way, I'm a rising sophomore and won't have any difficulty graduating in four years regardless of the path I take.</p>
<p>Did anyone wrestle with this as they were deciding whether or not to minor in a non practical subject? If so, how did you choose between the two options? Thanks in advance for any input!</p>
<p>I took the classes I wanted to take, without regard to whether they meet the requirements for a minor. I think I ended up with enough hours for a minor in history, but not the right hours, if that makes sense. Most of those were history of science / history of medicine classes, which were my favorites, too. If I had it to do over, I’d have been a history major. (My actual major was not a bit more practical, alas.)</p>
<p>The only real benefit is that you can put a minor on your resume. If you would take those classes anyway, as electives, then go ahead and register for a minor.</p>
<p>I think taking random classes might be more beneficial unless your minor compliments your major (ie; business major & Spanish minor work well).</p>
<p>My idea is that the random classes can help expand your interests and knowledge in many different fields. And some classes, like accounting, could apply to your future and help you in that sense. </p>
<p>Question, though: why can’t you take a few history of science classes as electives?</p>