Major/Minor
Music
Perform, compose, teach. Majors/minors gain the tools and support to cultivate talent. You will explore musical genres and traditions, study theoretical concepts and historical perspectives, and perform in collaborative, inspiring, and nurturing spaces. You may pursue a career in the music industry such as music education or performance, or apply your learning to another career path.
Major/Minor
Nursing
Gustavus Nursing majors are professionals with clinical reasoning, critical thinking, interpersonal, and leadership skills that meet the demands of ever-evolving healthcare systems. Learn more about the major here.
Major/Minor
Philosophy
Philosophy majors/minors will learn how to approach problems, view arguments from multiple perspectives, communicate clearly with others, and articulate thoughts in a meaningful way. You gain a comprehensive understanding of the major philosophical traditions, ideas, and arguments, along with the skills for critically analyzing them. Sample courses and career paths here.
Major/Minor
Physics
Physics is the foundation of everything from space exploration to robotics. In this nationally recognized program, majors/minors study matter, motion, and energy. Check out sample courses and career paths—including engineering and other physical sciences—here.
Major/Minor
Political Science
Political Science majors/minors engage in critical and analytical exploration of governance, social movements, and policy. Graduates attend law and graduate schools, and work in advocacy, politics, and for local, state, and federal governments. Check out sample classes and career paths here.
Major/Minor
Pre-Actuarial Science
Future actuaries major in Mathematics, Statistics, and/or Economics for careers managing risk in finance, insurance, retirement planning, and economics. You pursue actuarial science at Gustavus with a faculty advisor from the Mathematics, Computer Science, and Statistics Department who assists you in selecting courses and professional experiences. Sample courses and career paths here.
Major/Minor
Pre-Architecture
Students interested in becoming architects pair a major in Studio Art with Physics, Environmental Studies, and/or Geography majors. You'll study spatial design, construction technology, sustainable practices, and cultural considerations of architecture and architectural advancement. Plus, a faculty advisor from the Art and Art History Department will assist you in selecting classes that explore the art and science of spaces and creating a portfolio of projects in preparation for graduate study.
Major/Minor
Pre-Dentistry
Students interested in dentistry and oral health major in Biology, Chemistry, and/or Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. You'll gain an excellent scientific foundation with the flexibility to delve into diverse electives. Here, your career as a dentist, orthodontist, and oral surgeon begins with strong academics and a vibrant on-campus community. And the Office of Health Professions provides helps you navigate prerequisite courses and dental school applications.
Major/Minor
Pre-Engineering
Future engineers major in Physics, Chemistry, and/or Math, preparing for careers ranging from civil and mechanical engineering to electrical and biomedical engineering. You'll earn a degree in engineering through Gustavus coursework, plus coursework at a school of engineering. (Gustavus has a dual degree program partnership with Washington University in St. Louis).
Major/Minor
Pre-Law
Many majors support legal fields, including (but not limited to) Political Science, History, and Psychology. Courses cultivate problem-solving proficiency, critical reading, articulate writing, and effective oral communication. Gustavus's strong academics and faculty mentorship have launched generations of lawyers and legal careers.
Major/Minor
Pre-Materials Science
You'll major in Physics and/or Chemistry, developing critical thinking and analytical skills, plus a broad understanding of the world, as well as personalized guidance from a faculty advisor for pre-material science to prepare you for graduate education in materials science programs.
Major/Minor
Pre-Medicine
Students interested in careers in medicine, as medical doctors and other doctoral-level careers in health care sciences, major in Biology, Chemistry, or Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Gustavus. Our career specialists in the Office of Health Professions guide you from the moment you enter Gustavus through your acceptance to med school. Gustavus has a long legacy of producing doctors across all specialities, who have studied at top universities across the U.S.