Are you a high school student on the brink of choosing a college major? Or perhaps a parent seeking insights into the current trends in higher education? Look no further! In this blog post, we delve into the most popular college majors in the United States, offering you a comprehensive guide to help you make informed decisions about your academic future.
1) Business
With a staggering 387,851 bachelor’s degrees conferred, Business continues to reign as the most popular college major in the U.S. The versatility of business degrees opens doors to various specializations such as Marketing, Finance, Accounting, Entrepreneurship, and International Business.
Job Growth Rate (2021-2031): 9% (for finance jobs)
Median Salary: $65,000
2) Health Professions
Health Professions, encompassing majors like Nursing, Speech Pathology, and Occupational Therapy, claims the second spot with 257,282 degrees conferred. The demand for healthcare professionals is soaring, making this major an attractive choice.
Job Growth Rate (2021-2031): 6%
Median Salary: $63,000
3) Social Sciences & History
Boasting 161,164 bachelor’s degrees, Social Sciences & History covers a diverse range of majors, including History, Sociology, Anthropology, Economics, and Political Science.
Job Growth Rate (2021-2031): 7%
Median Salary: $64,000
4) Engineering
Engineering sees a surge in popularity, with 128,332 degrees awarded. Specializations like Aerospace Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering attract students seeking innovation and technological prowess.
Job Growth Rate (2021-2031): 4%
Median Salary: $93,000
5) Biology
The life sciences are booming, as evidenced by the 126,590 degrees conferred in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, and Biochemistry.
Job Growth Rate (2021-2031): 9%
Median Salary: $65,000
6) Psychology
Psychology, a consistently popular choice, sees 119,968 degrees conferred. Graduates often find diverse career paths in sales, business, healthcare, and management.
Job Growth Rate (2021-2031): 6%
Median Salary: $50,000
7) Computer Science
In the digital age, Computer Science claims the seventh spot with 97,047 degrees awarded. The sector anticipates massive job growth, making it a lucrative and dynamic field.
Job Growth Rate (2021-2031): 21%
Median Salary: $85,000
8) Visual & Performing Arts
Artistic pursuits remain steadfast, as 92,332 degrees are issued in Studio Art, Dance, Music, Drama, and Film.
Job Growth Rate (2021-2031): 6%
Median Salary: $42,000
9) Communication/Journalism
Despite evolving media landscapes, Communication and Journalism continue to attract students, with 91,752 degrees conferred.
Job Growth Rate (2021-2031): 6%
Median Salary: $54,000
10) Education
Education takes a unique position, with 85,057 degrees conferred, though the numbers have declined over the years. The nation is grappling with a significant teacher shortage.
Job Growth Rate (2021-2031): 5%
Median Salary: $48,000
11) Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, and Firefighting
In response to rising entry barriers in security fields, 57,044 degrees are conferred, reflecting the enduring interest in Criminal Justice and Homeland Security.
Job Growth Rate (2021-2031): 3-4%
Median Salary: $45,760
12) Parks, Recreation, Leisure, Fitness, and Kinesiology
The eclectic mix of degrees in Environmental Science & Forestry, Kinesiology, and Hospitality & Recreation attracts between 42,000 and 54,000 degree-seekers.
Job Growth Rate (2021-2031): 4%
Median Salary: $48,000
Choosing Your Path
Deciding on a college major is a significant step, and being “Undecided” is a perfectly acceptable starting point. Many colleges offer the flexibility to explore various disciplines before committing. Whether you’re drawn to the dynamic world of business, the cutting-edge realm of technology, or the enriching field of healthcare, the key is to explore your passions and make an informed choice as you embark on your academic journey.