As an expert in the field of higher education, I can provide a comprehensive understanding of what a minor in college is called and its significance within the academic curriculum.
A minor in college is referred to as an "academic minor." It is a secondary field of study that a student chooses to complement their primary major. The concept of a minor is designed to allow students to explore additional areas of interest, gain a broader educational background, and potentially enhance their employability by demonstrating a diverse set of skills and knowledge.
### Benefits of an Academic Minor

1. Skill Diversification: A minor can provide students with a diverse set of skills that can make them more versatile and adaptable in the job market.

2. Intellectual Growth: It offers an opportunity for intellectual exploration beyond the major, fostering a well-rounded education.

3. Career Enhancement: Some minors can directly enhance a student's career prospects, especially if the minor is in a field that complements the major.

4. Flexibility: A minor can be tailored to a student's interests, allowing for a personalized educational experience.

5. Interdisciplinary Learning: It encourages students to engage in interdisciplinary studies, which can lead to innovative thinking and problem-solving skills.

### How to Obtain a Minor
The process of obtaining a minor varies by institution, but there are some common steps and requirements:


1. Declaration: Students typically declare their intent to pursue a minor at a certain point in their academic career, often during their sophomore or junior year.

2. Coursework: They must complete a specified number of courses within the minor discipline. This usually involves taking a combination of foundational and advanced courses.

3. Credit Hours: The number of credit hours required for a minor can range, but it is generally less than what is required for a major. The statement you provided suggests that "a total of three years of study at a university in a selected subject is the usual requirement," which might be misleading. In reality, the time required is often less and is measured in credit hours or course completion rather than years of study.

4. Advisor Approval: Students usually need to work with an academic advisor to ensure that the minor's requirements are met and that the minor complements their overall academic plan.

### Common Minors
Some popular minors include fields such as:

- Foreign Languages: For students interested in global perspectives or careers in international relations.
- Business Administration: Useful for those looking to understand the basics of management and finance, regardless of their major.
- Computer Science: Valuable for students in various fields who want to incorporate technology into their work.
- Communication Studies: Can improve public speaking and interpersonal skills, beneficial in many professional environments.

### Integration with Major
The minor is often chosen to integrate well with the student's major. For example, a student majoring in Biology might choose a minor in Chemistry to gain a deeper understanding of related scientific principles.

### Conclusion
An academic minor is an important aspect of higher education that can enrich a student's learning experience and open up new opportunities. It is not simply an additional academic load but a strategic choice that can significantly impact a student's academic and professional trajectory.

Now, let's proceed with the translation into Chinese.

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An academic minor is a college or university student's declared secondary academic discipline during their undergraduate studies. ... To obtain an academic minor, a total of three years of study at a university in a selected subject is the usual requirement.read more >>