All CLA majors are impacted. Double major approvals may not be available in all programs or every quarter.
Eligibility at a glance
Program note: Child Development and Psychology are open to double majors. However, you may not double major in both Psychology and Child Development.
Plan early
Adding a second major is easiest when planned early in your academic career.
Time to degree
You must be able to complete both majors within:
5 total years / 15 quarters if you started at Cal Poly as a first-year student, or
3 total years / 9 quarters if you started at Cal Poly as a transfer student.
Complete concurrently
You must be able to complete both majors concurrently (per Catalog policy).
Meet change-of-major criteria
You must meet the same criteria required to change into the target CLA major.
How to request a double major
#1
Confirm eligibility
Review requirements for the target major and confirm you can complete both programs within the timelines above.
#2
Create your Academic Plan (XLS)
Complete the academic plan worksheet showing a realistic path to finish both majors on time.
#3
Write your Narrative (minimum one page)
Explain why adding a second major supports your academic and/or career goals.
#4
Meet with the target department
Meet with the Department Chair or Associate Chair of the major you wish to add and request approval.
#5
Request the digital “Add a Major” form
With department approval, obtain the digital form from CLA Advising (claadvising@calpoly.edu) or from the Chair/Associate Chair.
#6
Submit and route for signatures
Attach the required documents and submit the form for routing.
Required attachments
Attachment 1 — Academic Plan (XLS)
What it should show:
Completion of both majors within 15 quarters (first-year) or 9 quarters (transfer).
A realistic plan based on curriculum sheets and tentative course offerings.
Attachment 2 — Narrative (1+ page)
What to include:
Benefits of adding a second major related to your academic and/or career goals.
Why a second major is more beneficial than a minor or a graduate degree in the target area.
Signature routing
You attach:
- Academic Plan (XLS)
- Narrative (minimum one page)
Routing order:
- Department Chair for your current major
- Department Chair for the target (proposed) major
- College of Liberal Arts Dean’s Office
