12-13

18-19
Major Field of Study
A major, (such as Business Administration, Psychology, International Economic Relations), consists of a series of
courses at the introductory and advanced level within a defined academic framework leading to a bachelor's
degree. Through mastery of subjects taught in the major, students acquire the basic foundation and specialization
necessary for a successful transition to graduate study or a professional career.
Basic Structure of a Major
The basic structure of an American bachelor's degree includes:
• General Education Courses: Courses that are required for all majors
and must be completed during the first two years of study. General
education courses expose students to the areas of knowledge that
characterize a broadly educated person, and are designed to assist
them in developing both a global perspective and an understanding
of the traditions and complexities of a democratic society.
• Concentration Prerequisites Courses: Many courses have
prerequisites which prepare a student for more advanced and
upper level courses. Students are not permitted to register for
courses without having completed the required prerequisite(s).
• Elective Courses: Courses chosen by students according to
their interests or courses added to a major so that students
may specialize in a second area.
• Concentration Advanced Courses: Courses which are at an
advanced level and are required in order for a student to
complete a major. These courses are offered by SUNY/Empire
State College and must be in total at least 32 credits.
Course Credits
Usually, 1 hour of class each week is equal to 1 semester credit.
Most classes at UNYP meet for 3 hours each week, and so they are
3 credit classes. Generally, 1 hour of in-class work each week should
require 2 hours of preparation and homework on the part of the
student. To receive an American Bachelor's degree, you need to
complete 128 credits overall.
Academic Calendar
The academic year is divided into two 15-week semesters and
one or two 4-6 week summer session(s).
Fall Semester: from September to January
Spring Semester: from February to June
Summer Session(s): from June to July
Registration for classes occurs prior to each
semester.