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For certain technical professions—engineering, architecture, accounting, dental hygiene, physical therapy—the choice of major is indeed essential for entering the field. But beyond those, the choice of undergraduate major may have surprisingly little bearing on career competitiveness.
Medical school is the most striking example. While students must complete science prerequisites before applying, their actual major can be in the humanities or social sciences. The MCAT has been redesigned to include knowledge of sociology, psychology, philosophy, economics, and even politics. Some medical schools actively recruit students who have pursued majors outside the sciences because, as the Great College Advice Family Handbook puts it, “being a good doctor is not just about being a good technician: one must also be an ethicist, a psychologist, a communicator, and a good business person.”
Law school accepts students with virtually any undergraduate major—a biology major is just as welcome as a political science major.
Journalism has shifted dramatically. Many editors now prefer to hire journalists with substantive majors in economics, business, foreign languages, or sciences rather than a journalism degree.
Jamie Berger frames this in terms of how rapidly the world changes: “The jobs or professions that are the most lucrative today may not be so tomorrow. Think of the computer programmers trained in the 1980s and 1990s who found their jobs outsourced. Think of the rise of social media and the decline of newspapers.” Today’s graduates will have not only many different jobs in their lifetimes but likely more than one career. This is why Great College Advice emphasizes preferences, personality, and aptitude in choosing a major—not just targeting one narrow field.
If you need assistance on career exploration as part of the college admissions process schedule a free consultation with our admissions team. Let’s make sure you’re applying strategically, not just broadly.
Since 2007, the expert team of college admissions consultants at Great College Advice has provided comprehensive guidance to thousands of students from across the United States and over 45 countries across the world. Great College Advice has offices in Colorado, New Jersey, Chicago, North Carolina and Massachusetts.
In addition to our one-on-one counseling, Great College Advice extends its support through one of the most active and resource-rich Facebook Groups for college-bound students and their families: College Admissions Experts. With over 100,000 members—students, parents, and experienced counselors—this vibrant forum offers peer support and expert advice like no other.
