How to Choose a College Major

When choosing a major, it's essential to consider your passions, strengths, and long-term career goals. Choosing a major is a significant step in the college process and should be considered carefully. 

Below are key considerations to keep in mind when choosing a major.

What Are You Interested In? 

Passion is the fuel that drives everything. Selecting a field of study that you are genuinely interested in can enhance your motivation, make learning enjoyable, and ultimately lead to your overall job satisfaction. 

So, how can you pinpoint your interests? Start by taking a deep dive into your likes and dislikes. Reflect on the classes that have grabbed your attention and made you eager to learn more. Here are some ways you can start to clarify your interests:

1. Kickstart Your Exploration - Check out the ACT Inventories. These inventories focus your interests, values, and preferences in areas such as science, art, business, and much more. By understanding your interests, you can narrow down your choices and get a clearer picture of which majors might be a good fit for you. 
2. Participate in Internships - Real-world experiences can help clarify your interests. Participating in internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs related to fields you're interested in can help you get a better understanding of whether your chosen path aligns with your interests and strengths.
3. Consider Job Shadowing - Job shadowing can provide valuable insights into the career path you’re interested in pursuing. Shadowing someone on the job can allow you to ask questions and learn new skills.  

What Subject Areas Do You Excel In?

While pursuing your passion is crucial, it's essential not to disregard your strengths. Focusing on your strengths can enhance your academic performance and increase your chances of success in your chosen field. For example, if you excel in mathematics, you might want to consider fields or careers that have strong analytical or quantitative components.  

It's important however not to limit your options solely to areas where you excel. View your weaknesses as opportunities where you can improve. College is a place for growth and exploration, and you may discover new interests and talents along the way. For example, if you are looking to improve your writing skills, go ahead and take a journalism course. You might love it! 

What Are Your Career Goals?

Choosing a college major is a pivotal step in your college journey. It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed, but remember, you're not alone in this adventure. We’re here to help!  

To help provide some clarity around the decision, we’ve listed some commonly asked questions below: 

When Do You Have To Pick a Major? 

High school is a great time to start exploring potential college majors. Reflecting on this early will allow you to start homing in on your interests and strengths. Once you've started college, you'll typically have until the end of your sophomore year to officially declare a major. Keep in mind, requirements can vary between institutions so it’s important for you to know the key deadlines for choosing a major.

Remember, deciding on a college major is a personal journey, and unique to every individual. Start exploring your interests early, seek guidance, and don't be afraid to change direction if you discover new passions. It’s important to choose a major that you can feel excited about! 

What Is a Double Major?

A double major is one degree with two majors included. Double majoring can be a great option for students looking to build a diverse skillset in multiple fields. Typically, students choose fields that complement each other in some way, but this is not required. 

Some examples of popular double majors include: 

• Engineering and math 
• Political science and economics 
• Marketing and communications 
• Psychology and criminal science 
• Accounting and finance  

Keep in mind, double majoring can require additional credit hours depending on the university’s requirements and your declared majors. If you have chosen fields that overlap, it’s possible some of your classes can count toward both majors. For example, a student majoring in marketing and communications could take a course like creative writing and count it toward both majors.  

Different from a double major, students can also earn a dual degree. A dual degree involves pursuing two entirely different degrees, like a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Both options carry unique advantages. Learn more about earning a dual degree or double major.

Can You Change Your Major?

The fear of choosing the wrong major is a common concern for many students. If you find that your initial choice isn't the right fit for you, not to worry — changing your major is usually very common. The process may vary from one institution to another, but generally, you'll need to meet with an academic advisor and complete the necessary steps and requirements.  

What if I'm Undecided?

It's perfectly fine not to have it all figured out on day one. Many students start college as "undecided,", which simply means they have not declared a specific major. Entering college undecided gives you time to explore various subjects and discover your passions, strengths, and interests. Keep in mind, it is advised you declare and major by the end of sophomore year. This doesn't mean you can't change your mind later on, but having a declared major helps streamline your academic path and ensures you're on the right track to graduate.