Program Overview

Individual Major

Students enrolled in the College of Arts and Sciences must apply for the Individual Major, which lets students focus their academic work on an interdisciplinary topic outside the framework of an existing department or program. You define your own major program of study, selecting courses from two or more disciplines within the college.

Program Facts

  • Program Type: Major
    • Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Winter Term

Oberlin’s four-week winter term in January encourages students to discover the value of self-directed education. You may pursue individual or group projects that are directly linked to your field of study or explore opportunities unrelated to your major. Complete your project on or off campus.

Student Clubs and Organizations

Student Senate, Chess Club, Solarity, the Oberlin Review—these are among the more than 175 student groups and clubs available to you. From politics to faith and identity, and from special interest to sports, Oberlin has an array of clubs eager for new members, new ideas, and new leadership.

Individual Major News

Taking a Shine to TIMARA

May 5, 2021

Vocalist and philosophy major Diana Gruber ’22 crafted an innovative conservatory major—and an alter ego to match.
Female singer under a tree.

Ace of Clubs

July 27, 2017

A circuitous route through Oberlin led directly to a dream job for Gabe Pollack ’11, who today manages a popular jazz club in the Cleveland area.
Former Oberlin double-degree student Gabe Pollack

Takes Well to Direction

May 1, 2015

Baritone Jason Goldberg '16 turned his love of opera into an individual major in directing.
smiling student singer and director
View all Individual Major news