Regardless of the academic program you choose, at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, you’ll find exceptional opportunities for learning..
We maintain complete, up-to-date lists of undergraduate majors and certificate programs so you can decide which areas of study interest you most.
At University of Wisconsin–Madison, we offer eight undergraduate schools and colleges that are home to our 130 undergraduate majors. Each school and college is distinct and provides unique academic communities, facilities, resources, professors, and academic programs.
All students are initially admitted into the university and not into specific programs and majors, with the exception of our Direct Entry programs. Admission to the university does not guarantee admission into a specific major program or college.
To learn more about the admission expectations, requirements, and procedures for the major of interest to you, consult our Entrance Requirements for Undergraduate Majors
Transfer students interested in professional programs in the Schools of Business, Education, Nursing, and Pharmacy are required to apply for admission to those programs. You may be eligible to apply to a professional program when you apply to the university if you have met that program’s course prerequisites. Please consult our schools and colleges websites for course prerequisites, GPA requirements, and application procedures and deadlines.
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College of Agricultural & Life Sciences
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Wisconsin School of Business
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School of Education
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College of Engineering
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School of Human Ecology
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College of Letters & Science
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School of Nursing
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School of Pharmacy
In addition, the Graduate School offers Master’s and Doctoral degrees in many disciplines. The three professional schools are the Law School, the School of Medicine and Public Health, and the School of Veterinary Medicine.
Our faculty and staff provide a world-class educational experience. With an astounding legacy of learning and discovery, you can choose from over 4,700 classes in nearly any subject and take time to explore the major that’s right for you.
Our students know that learning is a lifelong journey, and they study with people who also embrace spirited discussion and debate. Research is a critical component of the work our undergraduates produce, and regardless of your field, you will be challenged to think critically.
Get ready to be enriched by your classmates, inspired by your professors, and supported in your desire to learn.
HELPFUL LINKS
FAQs About Majors
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What is a major?
Your major is the primary focus of your degree. Each major has different coursework required that provides you with specialized knowledge in that field.
How do majors work at UW–Madison?
You’ll apply with an intended major (a 1st and 2nd choice). Students are admitted to the university with an intent to pursue their major, which they formally declare as a current student. Those who apply with an interest in a major in the College of Engineering, the Wisconsin School of Business, or a major in music or dance may be directly admitted as an incoming freshman or transfer student. You may also apply as an undecided student within most of our colleges, if you know the area you wish to study, but aren’t sure of the specific program. Undecided students who are not sure of the school or college they wish to pursue a degree in should apply as Undeclared in the College of Letters and Science.
What if I want to minor in something?
At UW–Madison, we offer certificates. They are similar to minors that you may find at other schools. Certificates allow for a secondary specialization to make you even more marketable.
What if I don't find my major here?
Majors and programs are called different things at different schools. Maybe you know what you want to do, but not what major will get you there. Our office can help you find what program(s) we have that offer what you are looking for.
What if I don't know what I want to study?
That’s okay. You don’t have to know what you want to study to apply to or start at UW–Madison. Many students change their major—before they start college, and during. We offer numerous resources, including major exploration fairs and advisors who specialize in working with undecided students to help you find your focus.
The Guide
Your essential guide to our academic offerings and your Wisconsin Experience.