<p>I understand the usage of “downgrade” instead of switching majors. There are students who actively like a field and try it but find the coursework too difficult for them. For them there is a “downgrade” to perhaps something similar but not as challenging, or something with different courses entirely.</p>
<p>As an undergrad Chemistry major I always considered engineering as a downgrade of the pure sciences- requiring less theoretical knowledge/comprehension abilities. Engineering fields may be better for jobs, but not always for intellectual satisfaction. The two are different- parallel, not better/worse, on a scale of things.</p>
<p>I remember helping freshmen who couldn’t handle their Nursing general chemistry- their hearts were in the right place but not their ability to handle the material needed. Likewise many premeds who can’t handle the sciences at the intenisty needed (I chose medical school over grad school). Nursing, btw, is parallel to being a physician, different skills and outlooks on patient care.</p>
<p>It is hard for students to discover their skills/aptitude isn’t good enough to compete in a field they like. I imagine a fresh start on a new campus is the reason to transfer.</p>
<p>Remember, too, that someone’s downgrade major is someone else’s upgrade. The ultimate downgrade is dropping out of college altogether.</p>