Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
No. You may earn either the major or the minor, but not both.
No. You cannot earn a double major in the two tracks (environmental engineering and materials engineering). You may take courses from both tracks as long as you satisfy all of the prerequisite courses. However, you would only earn one degree—the bachelor’s of science degree in applied sciences, and only one track will appear on your transcript.
Yes, you can earn the bachelor’s of science degree in applied sciences degree along with a second degree from another department or school outside the Department of Applied Physical Sciences. Not only is this allowed, the flexibility of our degree program makes earning a double major more feasible than you would typically find at other engineering programs.
Yes. However, you cannot apply to the major at the same time that you apply to UNC as a transfer student. Transfer students may apply to the program after starting your first semester at UNC and completing the pre- and co-requisites. Admission to UNC does not guarantee admission to the applied sciences program.
Yes. If you are interested in the major, you should join our undergraduate program listserve. This will help you to learn more about the undergraduate program, including important deadlines and events. To join the listserve, email the APS Student Services Manager at: apsssm@unc.edu.
Questions about the Application Process
Students may declare the Applied Sciences major as early as their first year. However, students who wish to complete the major must apply for admission to the program. Admission to the university does not guarantee admission to the program.
Students need to complete prerequisite or corequisite courses in English, math, and physics, and chemistry during or before the semester in which they apply for admission. These courses are similar to what students take for other STEM majors in the first year. We recommend that students apply as soon as they have completed the pre- or co-requisite classes, but no later than the fall of their sophomore year.
Students need to complete prerequisite or corequisite courses in English, math, and physics, and chemistry during or before the semester in which they apply for admission. These courses are similar to what students take for other STEM majors in the first year. We recommend that students apply as soon as they have completed the pre- or co-requisite classes, but no later than the fall of their sophomore year.
Only students who plan to graduate in spring 2028 or later are eligible to apply to the major.
Yes. Students need to complete prerequisite or corequisite English, math, and science courses during or before the semester in which they apply for admission. These courses are similar to what students take for other STEM majors in the first year. See website for a list of courses.
Students who are not accepted into the program must select a different major. Note that one option is to combine a different STEM major with the minor in Applied Sciences and Engineering, which does not have an admissions requirement. Also, students can reapply to the major if they wish (see question below).
Yes. Students who are not admitted can reapply during the next application window. To be admitted upon reapplication, students should demonstrate improved academic performance and submit a strong essay. Each applicant is carefully evaluated by the Applied Sciences undergraduate admissions committee.