The undergraduate minor is awarded for coursework completed in or coordinated by a single academic department. The minor, once awarded, is noted on a student’s transcript.
Minors recognize successful completion of a minimum of 15 credits of approved non-introductory courses with a grade of C or better. The courses should constitute an academically defensible, focused aspect of the degree program from which they are drawn. A current list of approved minors is available online.
Proposal Outline
- What are the objectives of the proposed minor?
- Discuss the need for the program.
- What kinds of students might be interested in this program?
- What do students gain from this minor in terms of skills, knowledge, and/or values.
- How will the minor be administered?
- Will resources be required to administer this program? (Note that it is expected that existing courses will be utilized.)
- What is your projected enrollment? How many students are currently served in the major program? Identify the source of students for the proposed program.
- What fundamental courses and prerequisites are needed for acceptance into the minor (e.g., minimum credits, grade point average, work experience)?
- How many credits will be required for the minor? (Minors require a minimum of 15 non-introductory credits)
- Provide the curriculum – e.g. courses required, subject areas in which students may take courses, etc. The unit may provide a list of courses or provide a statement such as the following: 12 credits in XXX subject area and SUBJ 404
- What is the minimum number of credits toward the minor that students must earn at UH Mānoa?
- How will the program be organized (e.g., first-semester courses, required or core courses, electives)?
- Who will have responsibility for tracking, advising, and mentoring students (e.g., program director or staff, individual faculty)? Note that the procedures and requirements for the declaration of a minor are the same as those for a major. Identify the person(s) responsible for advising students and compiling data on enrollment and number of minors conferred.
Submitting Proposals
Step 1: Consultation
Before submitting, the Department Chair or Dean should consult with the Director of Program Development and Review at the OVPAE.
- Tip: We recommend involving academic advisors early to ensure proposals meet all university requirements, such as the 15 non-introductory credit requirement.
- Requirements: If your minor involves commitments from other programs (such as required courses), please include evidence of consultation or a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA).
Step 2: Submit Your Proposal
You may choose one of the following two methods:
Option A: Digital Submission (Recommended) Submit your request directly through the MC Curriculum Program New Form (for Concentrations, BAMs, and Minors). This digital process is designed to be user-friendly and has a transparent workflow.
Option B: Traditional Email Submission Email your completed cover memo and all required attachments to acadpro@hawaii.edu.
Please note, proposals are typically reviewed and recommended for approval for the upcoming academic year, not necessarily the next academic term.