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Degree options

Explore º£½ÇÉçÇø degree options—majors, minors, honours, certificates, diplomas, and co-op programs—to find the path that works for you.

Choosing an undergraduate degree

Choosing the right degree can feel like a big decision, but don’t worry, we’re here to help you figure it out. Whether you’re planning to jump into the workforce, go to grad school, or just explore your interests, there’s a degree path that fits your goals.

Whatever degree you choose, make sure you're following the rules and program requirements fro mthe year you started your degree at º£½ÇÉçÇø. You'll find all the details in the

This information is mainly for students in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences and the Faculty of Science. If you're in another faculty, check the for your specific requirements.

Looking for graduate degree options?

If you're interested in a Masters or PhD program, visit the Faculty of Graduate Studies to explore your options, and then check out our list of programs to find the degree that's right for you.

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Major degree

This 20-credit (120 credit hour) degree is the go-to for most students. It gives you a solid foundation in one area and is often required for further study in programs likeÌý Medicine, Dentistry, or Law.

General requirements

  • 5-10 credits (30 - 60 credit hours) beyond the 1000-level in the chosen major subject.
  • If you take 5 courses per term (15 credit hours), you can usually complete this degree in 4 years.

Minor degree

A 15-credit (90 credit hours) degree with a minor is considered a "general" bachelor's degree because it offers the least breadth and depth.

This degree might be for you if:

  • You want to get into the workforce quickly. You can finish this degree in three years vs. the four years required for a Major degree.
  • You want to apply for an entry-to-practice program that requires previous university experience, like Architecture, Pharmacy, or Social Work.

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General requirements:

  • 3-6 credits (18 - 36 credit hours) beyond the 1000-levelÌýin the chosen minor.
  • If you take 5 courses per term (15 credit hours) you can usually complete this degree in 3 years.
  • You may also choose to graduate with this degree and return later to finish the 20-credit degree (120 credit hour).Ìý

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Double major

Love two subjects equally? A double major lets you study both! It’s still a 20-credit (120 credit hour) degree, but you’ll split your focus between two areas.

General requirements

  • 10–14 credits (60–84 credit hours) beyond the 1000-level, split between both majors.
  • Can be completed in 4 years with a full course load (5 courses per term).

Honours degree

Thinking about grad school? An honours degree will help position you for success in your application. It’s a 20-credit (120 credit hour) program with a deeper dive into your subject, plus a research project or honours essay.

General requirements

  • Requires 9–11 credits (54–66 credit hours) beyond the 1000-level.
  • Includes a research project or honours essay.
  • You’ll need to apply through DalOnline and requires approval from your department. You must also meet specific eligibility and GPA requirements.

Combined honours

A combined honours degree lets you study two areas in depth. Just make sure it aligns with your grad school plans.Ìý

General requirements

  • Requires 11–14 credits (66–84 credit hours) beyond the 1000-level, split between both subjects.
  • Includes a research project or honours essay.
  • You’ll need to apply through your department and meet eligibility and GPA requirements.

A combined honours degree might not give you the depth of knowledge required to apply for some grad school programs. Do your research and make sure this option fits with your plans.

Minor

Not to be confused with a minor degree, a minor is like a sidekick to your major—it’s an extra area of study you can explore alongside your main program. It’s optional, but a great way to dive into another subject you’re curious about.

Is a minor for you?

  • Students in the Faculties of Arts and Social Sciences, Science, Management, Agriculture, and Computer Science can take a minor.
  • You’ll take a few extra courses (usually 3–6 full credits) in your chosen minor.
  • Doing a minor means you’ll have fewer elective spots, so if you like variety, you might skip it and keep your options open.
  • You can even do more than one minor if you’re feeling ambitious!
Check out the program explorer to see minor options

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Certificates

Want to boost your resume with something extra? Some programs offer certificates. They’re a great way to show off a specific skill set. There are also some certificates you can take on their own, without studying for a degree.

Learn more about certificate options
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Diplomas

Diplomas are like mini degrees that give you hands-on skills and knowledge for the workplace. They’re usually for students who already have some university or work experience.

Find a diploma
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Co-op programs

Want to get real-world experience while you study? Some programs offer co-op options that mix classroom learning with paid work placements. In some areas, like Commerce, co-op is required. It’s also available in Science, Engineering, and Computer Science.

Explore co-op and work integrated learning options
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Still not sure?

That's totally okay! We offer more than 300 graduate, undergraduate, and professional degrees in diverse areas. Our student success advisors are here to help you figure it out.
Explore our programs Talk to an academic advisor