A specialization is a coherent, focused subfield within a degree program. A specialization can be distinguished from a new degree in that the full designation of the degree title - including level, type and major - does not change when a new specialization is added. Specializations in an undergraduate major must share a core, defined as a group of courses shared by all specializations within a major, which consists of no fewer than 25 credits for an undergraduate program or 15 credits for a graduate program. The courses constituting the specialization must consist of no fewer than 20 credits for an undergraduate program or 15 credits for a graduate program.

Programs may offer options in satisfying core course requirements as long as they provide evidence that the options have equivalent student learner outcomes.

A new specialization must be reported to the HECB as an informational item.