Choose a major by working backward from careers you’d like, checking which majors lead there, and testing your interest with intro courses. Weigh interest, ability, career outcomes and cost. Remember: many careers accept several majors, and skills, internships and experience often matter as much as the major name.
Majors vs. careers
Some careers require a specific major: nursing, accounting, engineering, teaching. Many others accept a range of majors and care more about your skills, internships and experience. Know which kind of career you’re aiming for before you panic about choosing the “right” major.
A five-step method
- List careers that interest you. Use the Career Match Quiz and our career directory.
- Find the majors that lead there. Check each career’s “how to become” page and real job postings.
- Test your interest early. Take intro courses in your top two majors during your first year.
- Check outcomes. Ask the department where graduates work, what internships students land and what typical starting pay looks like.
- Consider cost and time. Some majors require extra semesters, licensing exams or graduate school.
Balance four factors
| Factor | Question to ask |
|---|---|
| Interest | Will I stay motivated through the hard upper-level courses? |
| Ability | Do I do well in the core subjects this major requires? |
| Outcomes | Does this major lead to jobs I want, with pay that fits my goals and debt? |
| Flexibility | If my plans change, does this major still give me useful skills? |
Make any major more employable
- Complete at least one internship, co-op or relevant part-time job.
- Learn practical tools employers use: spreadsheets, data analysis, writing and presentation skills.
- Add a minor or certificate that pairs with your interests (for example, business, data analytics or a technical certificate).
- Build a portfolio or record of projects.
It’s okay to change
Many students change majors. Changing early (in your first year or two) usually costs little. If you’re unsure, choose courses that count toward several majors and talk to an advisor often.
Frequently asked questions
What if I can’t decide on a major?
Choose general education courses that keep options open, take intro classes in your top choices and talk with advisors and professionals in those fields.
Does my major determine my career?
For licensed professions it often does. For many other careers, internships, skills and experience matter as much as your major.
Keep reading
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