Declaring a Major
(for Transfer Students)
As a transfer applicant (especially if you’re a junior) you are encouraged to select a major when you are admitted. Therefore, it is important for you to find out about UMass Amherst’s majors and requirements prior to filing the application for admission.
It’s not a bad idea to start by reviewing all of the majors that UMass Amherst has to offer at the online majors list. You may find a program you hadn’t even considered.
Look at the website for the majors you are considering as well as that of the school or college to gather information. You may also contact a transfer counselor in the Undergraduate Admissions Office (413-545-0222) or the specific academic departments to request major degree information.
While you’re at it, look at the list of minors and certificate programs. Both are excellent ways to round out your degree.
Prerequisite Coursework
You probably know by now that several majors require completion of prerequisite course work and more competitive grade point averages in order to transfer.
The programs with prerequisite coursework are:
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Isenberg School of Management:
The Isenberg School of Management requires a 3.0 cumulative grade point average (on a 4.0 scale) and completion of Isenberg predictor courses with grades of B or better. The number of required predictor courses varies based on credits completed. The predictor courses are: business calculus; microeconomics; macroeconomics; and two semesters of accounting.
Most transfer applicants need to have completed at least an economics or accounting predictor course and a math predictor course. Prospective transfers at the junior level should plan to complete all predictor courses prior to entering the UMass Amherst in order to gain admission to Isenberg.
Admission to the Isenberg School of Management is not directly tied to a major.
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College of Engineering:
Courses in calculus and physics or chemistry are strongly recommended.
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Computer Science:
Calculus I and II, Java or C or C++, Data Structures, and Assembly Language are required for admission.
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Nursing:
The University does not admit transfer applicants to the nursing major. Transfer students who are interested in nursing should explore nursing programs at other colleges and universities.
R.N.s seeking a bachelor's degree in Nursing may contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office for information regarding a specially designed R.N. to B.S. in Nursing Program.
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Communication, English, and Journalism:
Admission is based upon related coursework taken during the freshman and/or sophomore years.
For more information about prerequisite coursework, contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office (413-545-0222).
For Students Considering Majors in Art, Music and Dance
These departments require a portfolio review (in the case of Art) or auditions (in the case of Music and Dance). You are strongly encouraged to apply early in order to accommodate these special requirements. Go to the Portfolios, Reviews, and Auditions section for details.
