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Faculty of Science, Applied Science and Engineering
UNB Saint John

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Academic Advising

Choosing your major, specialization or discipline

By the end of your first year, you should have some idea of the particular field you are interested in.

Why should I declare a major and specialization?

  • You will be eligible for more specific scholarships, awards or grants
  • You will know what courses you should register for in the coming terms
  • You will receive communications that are reserved for students only in those programs
  • If you aren't 100% sure about your choice, you can change it at any time

How do I choose?

Review the program options for the Saint John campus and look at the required courses in the degree checklists. What courses did you enjoy? What didn’t you enjoy?

Sometimes it’s a matter of choosing your best fit, you can change majors or disciplines (even after declaring). If you are having a hard time choosing between subjects, you might want to consider minor options to reflect your interests.

The best plan is to start out with one and modify as necessary.

How and when do I apply?

Engineering students: Submit the program transfer form to the Registrar’s Office before the end of the first term.

Bachelor of Science students: Send an email to unbsjreg@unb.ca (from your UNB account) with your name, student number and desired major at the end of your second term.

Bachelor of Health students: Send an email to unbsjreg@unb.ca (from your UNB account) with your name, student number and desired major (see major options and detailed program information) at the end of your second term.

Bachelor of Health Science students: Review the application details.

Computer Science (BScCS) students: "Computer Science" is already considered like your Major, and most students just stay in the general program. However, if you do want to get into the Honours program within BScCS and/or in one of its specializations, you can simply send an email to unbsjreg@unb.ca (from your UNB account) with your name, student number and desired specialization/Honours. This would normally be done by the end of your second year of study. It is strongly recommended that you meet with the Chair of the CS department prior to sending such an email request, to discuss your study plans and the courses that will be needed for completing your program.

Other information you need to know

You are responsible for meeting your own graduation requirements. The best way to keep track is to maintain an updated checklist to make sure you are not missing anything.


You can register for next year's courses as soon as registration opens in March. Plan ahead for things such as:

  • upper-level courses offered in alternating years
  • eligibility to take the course (i.e. pre-requisites or co-requisites)
  • whether the course counts toward your degree (e.g. you don’t already have a course listed as a credit exclusion)

Reach out to an advisor at least once a year.


Ask for information related to your next steps:

  • graduate school
  • honours programs
  • letters of reference
  • professional experience
  • upper-year course content