Introduction
The required number of credit hours for the majors and minors in Alfaisal University are adopted from The National Qualifications Framework for Saudi Arabia which was approved by the Education and Training Evaluation Commission Board of Directors at its first meeting, Second Session, on 10/02/2020.
Major Specialization
A subject-area of specialty studied in University or any other recognized educational institution, with their basic area of specialization. The number of credit hours for a major specialization should be a minimum of 30% and a maximum of 60% of the primary requirements for the major specialization. University requirements are not included thereof. These requirements should be included in the learner’s transcript.
Minor Specialization
A support specialization outside the primary area of specialization studied in university or any recognized educational institution. The number of credit hours for a minor specialization should be a minimum of 25% and a maximum of 30% of the primary requirements for the specialization. This should be included in the learner’s transcript along with the specialization field.
"Related Courses" in the Major
Some rules below refer to "related courses" in the major. Many majors in Alfaisal University require the completion of a certain number of "related courses" outside the major department or program. For some majors these related courses must be chosen from a list of eligible courses. For some they must be chosen from particular categories. For others, the choice is more open, but must be approved by the major adviser. Information on related course requirements for each major in Alfaisal University is available in the Undergraduate Catalog and from the colleges.
Grades in Major Courses
You must earn a grade of at least C- in all courses you count toward your major, including related courses and prerequisites for the major. No work passed with a grade of D may be used to fulfill a major requirement.
Total Number of Majors Plus Minors
A student’s total number of majors plus minors may not typically exceed two. This is called the "Rule of Two." (Certificates do not count against this limit.)
Double Counting Major Courses
Generally, if a course is eligible to be applied towards a major and towards some additional type of Alfaisal university requirement (other than a second major or a minor) it may be double counted. The course, however, will earn you only one unit of credit, not two, toward the total number of courses you need for graduation.
Double Counting Major Courses Toward A Second Major or a Minor
You may not double count a major course toward a second major or a minor, with the following one exception:
- The requirements for some majors include "related courses." Courses used as related courses for one major may also count toward the department/program or related courses for a second major or toward the requirements for a minor.
Modification of Major Requirements
The standard requirements for each major require the approval of Alfaisal University Undergraduate Curriculum Committee (UCC).
Rules Related to Minors
Limit on Total Number of Majors and Minors
A student’s total number of majors plus minors may not typically exceed two. (This is called the "Rule of Two").
Grades in Minor Courses
You must earn a grade of at least C- in all courses you count toward your minor, including prerequisites for the minor. No work passed with a grade of D may be used to fulfill a minor requirement.
Double Counting Minor Courses
Generally, if a course is eligible to be applied towards a minor and towards some additional type of Alfaisal University requirement (other than a major) it may be double counted. The course, however, will earn you only one unit of credit, not two, toward the total number of courses you need for graduation. You generally may not count a course towards a minor and a major at the same.
Modification of Minor Requirements
The standard requirements for each minor require the approval of Alfaisal University Undergraduate Curriculum Committee (UCC).
Advising
The requirements of most majors and minors are straightforward. However, some majors and minors require careful sequencing of courses. If you have any questions about the requirements to complete a major or a minor, you should consult the advisor and the department offering the major/minor.
General questions about majors and minors can be answered by your college advisor and you will want to make sure you consult with your advisor about how best to incorporate the requirements for your major and minor with your college requirements, general education, etc.