A minor degree is normally related to the major subject. For example, many students studying science subjects will take a minor degree in mathematics to supplement their career and education. Minor courses are rarely taken if they are not relevant for the major subject studied. For example, a literature major subject would not normally be studied alongside a mathematics minor degree as the two subjects do not complement each other well. Unlike a joint degree, a course taken with a major and minor degree gives more weight to one subject (the major) and less to the other subject (the minor).
Minor degrees are intended to provide additional knowledge base for a subject, or provide a broader understanding of the major degree subject. Minor degrees should benefit the major subject. For instance, having a major degree in creative writing and a minor degree in English will give the student a greater understanding of literature and published work, and more options for jobs. If a major subject is broad, such as business studies, then a minor degree can be taken to increase chances of gaining a specific job in business, such as a minor in marketing.
Some students may study a minor degree to improve career prospects. Having a greater knowledge base in more than one subject is appealing to employers, especially if the job requires different knowledge areas. An English student who studies a minor in another language, such as Spanish, could not only work as an English teacher but also teach foreign students or move into a translation job. If a job requires one particular skill but also requests other additional skills, then a candidate with a major and minor degree covering both requirements may be more suitable for the job.
According to the University and Colleges Admission Service, minors generally require about a third as many subject-specific courses as a major, and are distinct from general education course requirements. Each institution will determine the course credits required to achieve a specific minor. It may be helpful to declare the intent to complete a minor degree early in college so that it will be easier to plan which subjects to take from year to year.