Concentration is a focused set of courses within a major that allows a student to specialize in a sub-field.
How it works
The student selects the concentration through advising or the registrar. The degree audit displays the additional or substituted requirements. Courses are completed as part of the major. At graduation the concentration is posted. Changing concentrations later may require different courses but rarely changes the overall degree credit total.
Example: an online MBA student chooses a concentration in healthcare management. Four required healthcare courses replace open electives. The total credits for the MBA remain 36, and the transcript lists “Master of Business Administration, Concentration in Healthcare Management.”
How it differs
A minor is outside the major. A double major requires a second full major. A certificate may be earned independently of the degree. A concentration is an internal specialization of the primary major.
Common errors
Expecting a concentration to reduce the total number of credits required. Assuming every concentration listed in the campus catalog is available fully online. Treating a concentration as a separate degree on résumés or applications.
References
- 1. Institutional concentration definitionsTracks within a major
- 2. Catalog language examplesCredit ranges
Concentration is a focused set of courses within a major that allows a student to specialize in a sub-field.