Guidelines for Named Degrees

Many of the degrees offered at the University of Nevada, Reno are “general title degrees”. These are typically Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts and the major is listed separately. Examples include: Bachelor of Science with a major in Animal Biotechnology, Bachelor of Arts with a major in History, Master of Science with a major in Geological Sciences.

Some degrees are “named degrees” incorporating the name of the discipline into the title of the degree. Examples include: “Bachelor of Science in Chemistry”, “Bachelor of Music”, “Bachelor of Social Work”, and “Master of Fine Arts”.

The following criteria distinguish “named degrees” from “general title degrees”.

• A professional or accrediting body exists that establishes specific criteria for the named degree.
• There is a tradition among peer institutions to have named degrees in this discipline.
• Named degrees do not have multiple majors and do not require that students complete a minor

Degree Information Appearing on Transcripts and Diplomas

“General title degree”

The diploma for “general title degrees” lists the degree title and the major (i.e. Bachelor of Science with a major in Biology)
The transcript for “general title degrees” shows the degree title, major, specialization (if any) and minor (if any)

“Named degree”

The diploma for “named degrees” lists the degree title and does not have a major
The transcript for “named degrees” lists the degree title.

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