Double Majors and Minors

Adding Majors or Minors to Your Degree Program

Adding a Second Major

Thinking about adding a second major? Start by checking how your current courses apply using Evaluate Academic Requirements in Workday. This gives you a quick snapshot of what the second major would add to your degree plan.

If you have questions after reviewing that information about requirements, timelines, or how the second major fits with your goals, you're welcome to reach out to an advisor in that department if you want more clarity.

When you're ready to move forward, your current advisor will help you formally declare the second major.

Common double-major pairings with Biology:

Adding a Minor

Minors are a great way to explore another interest or strengthen your skill set. Most minors require 15-18 credits and include a set number of "stand-alone" credits that apply only to the minor.

  • 2025 and later catalogs: 3 stand-alone credits
  • 2024 and earlier catalogs: 9 stand-alone credits

Popular minors for Biology majors:

  • Animal Science
  • Anthropology
  • Business
  • Chemistry
  • Criminal Justice
  • Genetics
  • Insect Science
  • Music
  • Nutrition
  • Psychology
  • Scientific Illustration & Visualization
  • Wildlife & Fisheries Conservation & Ecology
  • World Languages (such as Spanish)

A complete list of minors is available in the Iowa State Catalog.

Interested in a Biology Minor?

 Review the Biology minor requirements here.