Changing majors as a Freshman?

[stardust4321]

Hi,

I was just wondering, if I state a certain major on my application and get accepted, would it be possible for me to change my major prior to starting at the college?

example change from chemistry —> biochemistry

I am not sure about putting it as undecided/undeclared because colleges may see that in a bad light?

thank you

[ucbalumnus]

Put “[college name] change major [destination major]” to see if there are any unusual restrictions (e.g. GPA higher than needed to stay in good academic standing).

[stardust4321]

I tried, I don’t seem to be getting any definite results?
and I wanted to know whether it is actually possible to change my major in such a way. thanks

[xraymancs]

Many universities will not see undecided as a negative and chemistry and biochemistry are not usually restricted majors (as sometimes engineering might be). The best thing to do, however, is when you apply to a spcific universiy, call or email ans ask the admissions office. They will tell you.

[baktrax]

It shouldn’t be a problem, but how easy or difficult it is to change a major will depend on the college. You really have to check with their policies. If you are willing to post a school you are looking at, someone might be willing to help you look.

[stardust4321]

thank you!

[stardust4321]

@baktrax I am looking at JHU but I have no idea how to edit the post!!

[baktrax]

Changing Majors or Advisors
Once students have declared a major, they may change their major or their faculty advisor at a later date by obtaining a Change of Major form from the Office of the Registrar or the advising offices, meeting with appropriate person in the major to be assigned a new faculty advisor, and submitting the form to the Office of the Registrar.

Note that students may declare the BME major only at the time of application for admission to the University or as one of a limited number of students accepted into the program at the end of the freshman year based on the overall academic credentials of each applicant and on space available.

From http://e-catalog.jhu.edu/undergrad-students/academic-policies/requirements-for-a-bachelors-degree/#majorsminorstext

I also can’t find a biochemistry major at Johns Hopkins, but both biology and chemistry are in the school of arts and science so this may apply:

Declaring a Major in Arts and Sciences
Students who enter the Krieger School of Arts and Sciences from high school are classified as pre-majors during their freshman year. In April, freshmen in Arts and Sciences will meet with an academic advisor to declare their primary major in Arts and Sciences. To declare a major at a later time, see Changing Majors or Advisors. Students must declare a major by April 15th of their sophomore year in order to assure that they will complete requirements for graduation in four years.