Are you feeling a little lost in choosing a college major? If so, you’re not alone. Many students enter college unsure of what they want to study and what career path they want to pursue.
If you’re one of these undecided majors, don’t worry! There are plenty of resources and strategies available to help you figure out which path is right for you.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best majors for undecided students, such as those that offer flexibility, high job demand, and potential for growth.
By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of your options and be one step closer to choosing the perfect major for you!
What Does An Undecided College Major Mean?
An undecided college major, also known as an undeclared major, refers to a student who has not yet chosen a specific academic program or field of study.
This is a common situation for students who are just starting college or university or those who are still exploring their options and interests.
In some cases, students may choose to delay declaring a major until they have completed some general education requirements or have had the opportunity to take courses in different subject areas to help them make a more informed decision.
Undecided majors may work with academic advisors or career counselors to explore different fields, evaluate their skills and interests, and make more informed decisions about their academic and career goals.
What To Consider When Choosing a Major
Choosing a college major can be daunting, but by considering your interests, career goals, and learning style, you can find a major that’s right for you.
1. Interests
One of the most important factors in choosing a major is your interests. Ask yourself what subjects you enjoy learning about and what activities you are passionate about.
If you are a creative person, consider majors like art, design, or creative writing. On the other hand, if you’re more analytical, majors like engineering or computer science might be a good fit.
Don’t limit yourself to what you think you should be interested in. Instead, take the time to explore your interests and passions.
2. Career Goals
Another important consideration when choosing a major is your career goals. Think about what type of job you want to have after graduation.
For example, if you are interested in healthcare, majors like nursing or pre-med might be a good fit. If you want to work in business, look into accounting, finance, or marketing.
It is important to remember that your major doesn’t necessarily determine your career path, but it can be a helpful starting point.
Take the time to research different careers and what majors might lead to them, and talk to professionals in fields you are interested in to get a better understanding of what’s required.
3. Learning Style
Your learning style is also an important consideration when choosing a major.
Think about how you learn best. Do you prefer hands-on learning or lectures? Are you someone who enjoys group projects or do you prefer to work independently?
Different majors may require different learning styles, so it’s important to choose a major that aligns with your strengths.
For example, if you are a visual learner, majors like graphic design or architecture might be a good fit.
Undecided Majors for Incoming College Students
No idea what is a good major for someone undecided? Take a look at the list we prepared below to help you find where your interests lie.
1. Engineering
If you are an undecided student, consider a major in engineering. Engineering is a broad field that offers plenty of opportunities for growth, high job demand, and flexibility.
What Types of Engineering Majors Are Available?
There are many different types of engineering majors to choose from, each with its own set of benefits and career opportunities.
Some of the most popular types of engineering majors include:
- Civil Engineering: focuses on the design and construction of infrastructure like buildings, roads, and bridges
- Mechanical Engineering: focuses on the design and development of mechanical systems like engines, machines, and tools
- Electrical Engineering: focuses on the design and development of electrical systems like power generation, communication systems, and microelectronics
- Chemical Engineering: focuses on the design and development of chemical processes and products like plastics, pharmaceuticals, and fuels
- Aerospace Engineering: focuses on the design and development of aerospace systems like airplanes, rockets, and satellites
- Biomedical Engineering: focuses on the application of engineering principles to solve problems in biology and medicine, such as prosthetics, medical equipment, and drug delivery systems
Benefits of an Engineering Major
One of the biggest benefits of an engineering major is the high job demand.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field of civil engineering is expected to experience a 7% increase in employment opportunities between 2021 and 2031.
This means that, over the course of the next decade, an estimated average of 24,200 new job openings for civil engineers are anticipated annually.
In addition to job demand, engineering majors can also lead to high salaries.
The National Association of Colleges and Employers states that engineering majors have some of the highest starting salaries of any major.
For example, the median starting salary for a mechanical engineering major is $68,000, while the median starting salary for a chemical engineering major is $74,000.
Another benefit of an engineering major is the flexibility it offers.
Engineering majors can be applied to a variety of industries, from healthcare to aerospace to energy. This means that graduates have a wide range of career opportunities to choose from.
Lastly, an engineering major offers the opportunity to work on meaningful projects that can make a difference in the world.
For example, a civil engineer may design a bridge that connects two communities, while a biomedical engineer may develop a medical device that saves lives.
2. Business
A degree in business can open up a wide range of career opportunities and provide you with skills that are highly valued by employers.
What Types of Business Majors Are Available
There are many different types of business majors to choose from, each with its own set of benefits and career opportunities. Some of the most popular types include:
- Accounting: focuses on financial reporting, tax preparation, and auditing
- Finance: focuses on financial analysis, investment management, and risk assessment
- Marketing: focuses on market research, product development, and advertising
- Management: focuses on organizational behavior, leadership, and strategic planning
- International Business: focuses on the global economy, cross-cultural communication, and international trade
Benefits of a Business Major
One of the biggest benefits of a business major is the wide range of career opportunities it can provide.
Business majors can work in a variety of industries, from healthcare to technology to finance.
Additionally, a degree in business can prepare you for a variety of roles, from entry-level positions to executive positions.
Another benefit of having a business major is the high earning potential.
According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, the median starting salary for business majors is $57,000, higher than the median starting salary for many other majors.
In addition to job opportunities and high salaries, a business major can provide you with valuable skills that are highly valued by employers.
These skills include problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and leadership, which are not only useful in the workplace but also in your personal life.
Lastly, a business major can provide you with the opportunity to start your own business.
Many successful entrepreneurs have a background in business, and a degree in business can provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to start and run your own.
With a wide range of career opportunities, high earning potential, and valuable skills, a degree in business can provide you with a fulfilling and rewarding career path.
C. Liberal Arts
If you are an undecided student who is passionate about learning and exploring different fields, a liberal arts major may be the perfect fit for you.
As one of the best majors for undecided students, a degree in liberal arts can provide you with a well-rounded education and valuable skills that are highly sought after by employers.
What Types of Liberal Arts Majors Are Available
There are many different types of liberal arts majors to choose from, each with its own set of benefits and career opportunities. Some of the most popular types include:
- English: focuses on literature, writing, and critical analysis
- History: focuses on the study of past events and their impact on society
- Psychology: focuses on human behavior and mental processes
- Sociology: focuses on the study of society and social behavior
- Philosophy: focuses on critical thinking and logical reasoning
Benefits of a Liberal Arts Major
One of the biggest benefits of a liberal arts major is the well-rounded education you’ll get.
A degree in liberal arts can provide you with a broad understanding of different subjects and the ability to think critically and creatively.
This can be invaluable in any career field, as it allows you to approach problems from multiple perspectives and find innovative solutions.
Another benefit of a liberal arts major is the fact that it comes with transferable skills.
Liberal arts graduates often develop skills such as communication, writing, research, and analysis, which are highly valued by employers in many different fields.
These skills can help you excel in a variety of roles, from entry-level positions to executive positions.
Additionally, a degree in liberal arts can provide you with the opportunity to explore different fields and find your passion.
Many liberal arts majors go on to pursue graduate degrees in fields such as law, business, or education. Others find fulfilling careers in journalism, public service, or the arts.
Lastly, a liberal arts major can provide you with the opportunity to make a difference in the world.
Students of liberal arts are often passionate about social justice and activism, and a degree in liberal arts can provide you with the knowledge needed to make a positive impact in your community and beyond.
Other Factors to Consider
Interests, career goals, and learning style are all important factors to consider for students with an undecided major in college.
In addition to these, there are other factors that should be taken into account as well, such as:
Cost
Tuition and fees for different majors can vary greatly, and some majors may require more expensive materials or equipment than others.
Additionally, some majors may have better job prospects than others, which can affect your ability to pay off student loans after graduation.
When considering the cost of a major, it is important to look beyond just the sticker price.
Consider the availability of scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid, as well as the potential return on investment.
Location
Some majors may be more readily available in certain regions, while others may be more common in urban areas.
What’s more, the location of the school can affect your cost of living and access to resources.
When considering the location of a school, think about the cultural and social opportunities available in the area.
Is there a thriving arts scene? Is there a strong business community? Will you be able to find internships or job opportunities in your field of study?
School Reputation
A school with a strong reputation in your field of study can open doors to better job opportunities and networking opportunities after graduation.
Additionally, it may be more likely to offer high-quality resources and faculty members in your field of study.
Remember to do your research. Look for schools with strong rankings in your field of study, and reach out to current students or alumni to learn more about their experiences.
Moreover, consider attending college fairs or talking to admissions representatives to learn more about different schools and their programs.
What Degree to Get If You Are Undecided?
By considering your interests, career goals, and learning style, as well as cost, location, and school reputation, you can make an informed decision about the best major for you.
You can also start with a general degree program that provides a well-rounded education while allowing you to explore different subjects.
Others look for a degree in a high-demand field or an area that aligns with their interests and strengths.
Ultimately, the most important factor is to choose a degree that will offer you a fulfilling and rewarding career path.
By taking the time to research and evaluate your options, you can find the degree that best fits your needs and goals.