What does a minor in school exactly mean?

In educational contexts, "minor" typically refers to a secondary field of study pursued alongside a student's primary field of focus (known as their major). It involves taking a prescribed selection of courses in a specific subject area to gain knowledge and demonstrate competency in that field. A minor generally requires fewer course credits compared to a major and offers students the opportunity to explore subjects outside their chosen primary field or complement their major with relevant complementary studies.

Minors serve several purposes:

1. Depth of Learning: A minor allows students to deepen their understanding in a subject beyond what is gained solely through a few elective courses.

2. Interdisciplinary Studies: Minors offer a connection between students' major discipline and another chosen field, providing opportunities for broader intellectual explorations and insights.

3. Potential Career or Graduate School Advantages: Pursuing a minor in a complementary area can benefit a student's career prospects or increase their knowledge base prior to entering graduate school.

4. Enrichment of Knowledge: Taking courses in different disciplines gives students an opportunity to engage with diverse ideas, fostering holistic personal and intellectual growth.

5. Exploration for Possible Major: During their education, some students discover a secondary passion they eventually decide to make their main academic concentration.

A minor typically requires around 5-10 courses, varying with institutional specific, in one discipline and may have its set of graduation requirements such as specific course prerequisites or overall minimum grades. While the term "minor" implies something secondary, a well-chosen minor can significantly enhance a student's undergraduate experience and create a well-rounded academic background.