The purpose of the contract major is to enable highly motivated students to develop individual programs of study most appropriate to their particular academic interests. Contract majors should be considered only in those cases where students' academic interests are substantially different to the point that they cannot be accommodated by an existing major program.

A contract major is normally interdisciplinary in nature, and may include regular courses, independent study, fieldwork, study at other institutions, and study overseas. Each contract major must include at least thirty credits and all other general degree requirements must be completed.

A student interested in a contract major must be sponsored by three faculty advisors from academic disciplines related to the contract. No more than two of the advisors may be from the same department.

Students seeking a contract major should submit the required application form before the end of their sophomore year, or at the latest by the end of the first semester of their junior year. A prospective contract major applicant should first consult with a representative of the appropriate Dean's Office to discuss the proposed contract major and the composition of the Contract Committee.

The final proposal must be typed, signed by the student and the three faculty advisors, and submitted to the appropriate Dean's office for approval.

For further information, contact the appropriate Dean (Science and Engineering, Business, Fine and Performing Arts, and Liberal Arts and Sciences). Contract majors are not available to students in Education.