Academic Programs
MAJORS
A student is required to declare an academic major. The requirements for each major are determined by each department. Students must declare their major by the end of the second semester of their sophomore year.
Occidental College currently offers the following majors:
Biochemistry (major only)*
Comparative Studies in Literature and Culture
Critical Theory and Social Justice
Diplomacy and World Affairs (major only)
East Asian Languages and Cultures
Group Language (major only)
History
Independent Pattern of Study (see below)
Latino/a and Latin American Studies
Urban and Environmental Policy*
*designates interdepartmental majors
MINORS
A student is allowed to declare an academic minor, consisting of at least 20 units chosen from a list determined by each department. Students should consult the appropriate department for a list of courses acceptable for the minor. Students who wish to declare minors must do so no later than the fall semester of the senior year.
In addition to the programs listed above (unless otherwise, designated), the following minors are also available to students:
Classical Studies
Education
Gender, Women and Sexuality Studies
Interdisciplinary Writing
Linguistics
Neuroscience
Public Health
Russian
INDEPENDENT PATTERN OF STUDY
Occidental offers students, with the consultation of faculty members, the opportunity to design an Independent Pattern of Study (IPS) in lieu of a major program. An Independent Pattern of Study is appropriate when a student has a strong and well-developed motivation to pursue interdisciplinary study in areas where the College does not have a defined program. Such a program is particularly appropriate in newly emerging areas of study. It must, however, be one which is feasible for both the College and the student. The student must demonstrate to the faculty involved a record of success in completing previous work in courses, independent study and other programs.
A proposal for an IPS should include (1) a statement of academic purpose; (2) a program of at least 48 units, including 32 numbered 300 or greater; (3) a proposal for the Comprehensive Project; (4) plans for faculty involvement, including regular meetings with the entire committee; and (5) an overall GPA of 3.25 or better at the time the IPS proposal is submitted for approval. The program of study must be endorsed by an IPS committee, composed of three members of the faculty, with no more than two faculty from the same department.
The procedure for proposing an IPS begins with the submission of a proposal to the Student Progress Committee no later than six weeks before the end of the sophomore year. (Appropriate forms are available in the Registrar’s Office.) The proposal, after any necessary revisions, will be presented by the student to the assembled IPS committee in preparation for final submission. Final proposals for IPS must be approved no later than the end of the sophomore year.
The student’s transcript will have “Independent Pattern of Study” listed under the heading of “Major.” The title chosen for the IPS will be identified on the transcript as an emphasis in the major.