Create a Focal Area

ES students can self-design their own focal area. Usually, students create their own if their interests do not align with a minor and/or an existing focal area listed in the focal area library. If that is the case, the student will work closely with their advisor to identify their top focal area ideas and what courses could build a cohesive body of study. 

Steps to create a new focal area:

• Identify focal area ideas

• Look through Class Search and the Course Catalog to identify courses that could support your focal area. Make sure to review prerequisites.

• Talk to your advisor and schedule a meeting to discuss your focal area ideas. Bring the list of potential focal area courses. 

Your advisor will explain the parameters of the focal area and discuss the approval process. Your advisor will review your focal area and provide feedback before the approval process begins so that the student is more likely to receive approval on their first submission. The department reviews all proposed focal areas and either approves or does not approve the focal area submissions.