Is there such a thing as a free major?

So, I came across the term 'free major' a while ago, and honestly I have no idea what it means! Is it like a major that gives you a lot of flexibility, or is it something else entirely? Any insight on this?

Sure, let's clarify that term. The term "free major" is often used informally to describe an "independent" or "self-designed" major. This type of major exists at many liberal arts colleges and some other institutions, and provides students with the flexibility to create their own unique major when their academic interests transgress traditional departmental boundaries. This type of major is often multidisciplinary, drawing on courses, resources, and faculty across different departments to create a coherent, customized course of study.

Just as an example, an individual interested in both environmental sustainability and business might create a free major called "Sustainable Business", drawing on courses from the environmental science and business departments.

Creating such a major often requires that students write a proposal outlining the rationale for their course of study, as well as the specific courses they will take. They usually have to secure the support of faculty members who will serve as advisors for the major.

So, when people refer to a "free major," they don't mean that the major is free of charge—rather, it's free in the sense that you as the student have significant flexibility to design the scope and sequence of your coursework. It's an option worth considering if you have interdisciplinary interests that aren't well-served by the traditional majors available to you. Make sure to check the specific processes and requirements at your own institution if you see this as a route you might want to take.