Quick Highlights:
- Business is by far the most popular college major, making up 18.8% of all degrees awarded.
- These majors cater to strong future demands in their respective fields.
- The popularity of majors like engineering and computer science is attributed to their high return on investment.
- Consider a major that is specific to your personal goals, interests, and skills.

When choosing a college major, looking at the most common majors makes sense. The question is, how do you choose the right major for you?
Think realistically about your strengths and interests. Although many people talk a lot about the value of a STEM degree, you’re unlikely to succeed in these areas if you’re a poor math student. You might be happier pursuing a program that better matches your skills, like a journalism degree, if your favorite subject is English.
Asking what majors are most in-demand can help you choose between the career paths you’re considering, but a positive job outlook won’t mean much if you hate the coursework you have to take.
Smart students also consider their return on investment. What do future employment opportunities look like for students in the major you’re considering? What income level can you expect throughout your career in this field?
The next question students ask is how to go about choosing a school. Future college students should look for a school with a great reputation for the subject they plan to study. They should also keep their budget in mind to avoid sinking too deep into student loan debt.
Students may have to make some tough decisions. Do you spring for a more expensive school, maybe out of state, just for the prestige, or do you keep debt down by going to a more affordable but less prominent school? It’s a personal decision with no right or wrong answer.
Looking at the programs of study other students have chosen can inspire your major search and help you decide on a bachelor’s degree.
What are the most common college majors? Read on to find out.
See Also: High Paying Majors: The Top College Majors to Study
The Most Popular College Majors
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, five areas of study made up over 50% of all bachelor’s degrees awarded in 2021-2022. To be precise–out of 35 areas of undergraduate study, the following 5 made up 54% of all degrees awarded between 2021 and 2022:
- Business: 375,400 degrees awarded (18.8%)
- Health Professions: 263,800 (13.2%)
- Social Sciences and History: 151,100 (7.5%)
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences: 131,500 (6.6%)
- Psychology: 129,600 (6.5%)
See this pie chart to visualize the staggering dominance of most popular areas of study in college:

The remaining 30 areas of study are only pursued by about 1-4% of undergraduate students. But remember that each college major mentioned above is often represented in many different degree options.
But it’s important to note that the NCES compiled various specializations and degree tracks into broader categories. For example, marketing majors were included in the category of business majors. See the various degree options available within each area of these most common areas of study:
A business major includes degrees in: Marketing, Accounting, Finance, Management, Business Administration, Human Resources, International Business, Hospitality Management, Entrepreneurship, Real Estate, and Supply Chain Management.
Health Professions include degrees in: Nursing, Public Health, Health Administration, Medical Laboratory Science, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech-Language Pathology, Radiologic Technology, and Dental Hygiene.
Social Sciences and History include degrees in: Sociology, Anthropology, Political Science, Economics, History, International Relations, Geography, and Criminology.
Biological and Biomedical Sciences include degrees in: Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Genetics, Microbiology, Neuroscience, and Environmental Biology.
Psychology includes degrees in: Clinical Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Counseling Psychology, and Industrial-Organizational Psychology.
1. Business

What are the most popular college majors? Business is consistently one of the top-ranked college majors. Since the 1980s, colleges have awarded more bachelor’s degrees in business than in any other field, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). During the 2020-2021 school year, colleges awarded 375,400 bachelor’s degrees in business, making up 18.8% of all bachelor’s degrees awarded.
While it’s certainly possible to pursue a specialized business degree in a particular area of study, general business and business administration degrees are the most common. In a general business or business administration degree program, you’ll learn the fundamentals of business in the modern world and explore
Should you decide to enroll in a business degree program, you’ll take coursework in all areas of business, including:
- Management
- Marketing
- Finance
- Accounting
Related Resource: Best Bachelor’s in Accounting Degrees
2. Nursing

One of the most common majors of 2024, nursing, experienced tremendous growth in interest after the pandemic. During the 2020-2021 school year, colleges in the U.S. awarded 190,000 registered nursing bachelor’s degrees, according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN).
In Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs, students take classes like nursing fundamentals and gain clinical experience in areas like:
- Mental health
- Women’s health
- Medical-surgical nursing
Related Resource: What is a Bachelor’s Degree?
3. Biomedical Sciences

With technological innovation transforming the future of healthcare, biomedical sciences is one of the best college majors for the future. The 131,500 bachelor’s degrees awarded in general biomedical science from 2021-2022 represent a 37.1% increase from the 95,900 degrees awarded the year earlier, the NCES reported.
Biomedical sciences students take courses such as:
- Natural sciences
- Bioengineering
- Healthcare
- Medicine
See Also: Choosing and Paying for College: What Every Student Should Know
4. Biology

Biology and biological sciences are the popular majors for a bachelor’s degree for many students who want to:
- Go to medical school
- Become a pharmacist
- Become a physical therapist
- Work in biological research
Colleges awarded 106,032 undergraduate degrees in biology and biological sciences in 2022. Prospective Biology majors should expect to take classes in all types of biology—animal, plant, cellular, clinical, and population—along with interdisciplinary biology electives.
5. Psychology

An undergraduate background in psychology could be your first step toward a psychologist or counselor career, or it can also lead to roles in business, marketing, communications, and criminal justice, according to the American Psychological Association.
The NCES reported that colleges awarded 116,536 total four-year degrees in psychology from 2018-2019, and up to 129,600 degrees awarded from 2021-2022. Psychology students study areas like cognitive, social, biological, and abnormal psychology.
Related Resource: Top Mental Health Graduate Counseling Programs
6. History

Fewer college students major in history than they did a decade ago. The NCES reported that 23,169 undergraduate degrees were awarded from 2018-2019, compared to 34,441 from 2007-2008. Between 2021-2022 151,100 bachelor’s degrees were awarded within the category of social sciences and history.
Still, history remains a popular major in 2024. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that in 2023 there was an overall median salary of $72,890 for professional historians and a $109,050 median salary for those working for the federal government.
See Also: Best Bachelor’s Degrees in History
7. Engineering

One of the college majors with the best return on investment is engineering, for which the BLS reports some tremendous salary potential.
Here are the top paying fields in engineering in 2024 with median salaries:
- Computer Hardware Engineers: $138,080
- Petroleum Engineers: $135,690
- Aerospace Engineers: $130,720
Engineering refers to the use of science and math principles in designing solutions to a variety of problems. Critical thinking skills are a must in this field!
There are many disciplines and subdisciplines of engineering, including:
- Mechanical engineering
- Civil engineering
- Chemical engineering
See Also: Top Computer Engineering Master’s Degrees
8. Communications

If you’re wondering which college majors are the most successful, consider communications. This soft skill applies to every discipline, from the technical to the artsy, philosophical, or practical.
Colleges awarded 96,972 degrees in communications and communications technologies from 2018-2019, according to the NCES. But this figure fell to 89,200 from 2021-2022. Communications and journalism may be less appealing to new generations of college students.
Improve your writing and public speaking skills as you study:
- communication theory and strategy
- business communications
- digital communication
- critical thinking skills
See Also: Best Bachelor’s in Visual Communications Programs
9. Criminal Justice

Criminal justice encompasses studies in safety, law enforcement administration, police science, and corrections.
Undergraduate studies in criminal justice might include:
- Criminal and constitutional law
- Criminal investigation and procedures
- Corrections and rehabilitation
- Ethics and multicultural issues
- Criminal justice administration
See Also: Top Programs for Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree
10. Computer Science

If you have ever wanted to develop video games and software applications, program artificial intelligence systems, or create computer security solutions, consider majoring in computer science.
This program of study is broader and more versatile than a degree in software engineering or cybersecurity. Optional areas of emphasis allow students to tailor their studies to specific interests while cultivating a breadth of technical skills. If computer and information sciences interest you may look into a bachelor’s degree in computer science.
See Also: Best Bachelor’s in Computer Science
11. Political Science

Politics may seem like an inexplicable game to the uninitiated, but political science students learn about:
- political theory
- the American government system
- foreign relations
- the global political economy
- matters of terrorism and homeland security
- comparative politics
See Also: Top Bachelor’s Programs in Political Science
12. Economics

The field of economics doesn’t just revolve around money. Instead, economics is concerned with the analysis of all types of resource-related human decision-making, according to U.S. News & World Report.
While finance focuses on financial wealth, economics emphasizes the forces that drive resource allocation behavior. In the 2021-2022 academic year, approximately 44,626 bachelor’s degrees in economics were awarded in the United States.
See Also: Best Undergraduate Economics Schools
13. Social Sciences

Social sciences combine the curiosity of scientists with interests in the social world. Social sciences like sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, and psychology use scientific principles to analyze societies and social structures.
See Also: Top Online Bachelor’s in Social Science
14. Art

Despite the cliche of the starving artist, tens of thousands of American students earn four-year degrees in art each year. Schools offer fine arts and studio arts degrees in creative visual media such as:
- drawing
- painting
- ceramic arts
- sculpture
- weaving
Art majors spend a lot of time in the studio, polishing their skills and creating new works for their portfolios.
See Also: Best Art and Art History Degree Programs
15. Environmental Science

If knowledge is power, knowledge of environmental science gives you the power to shape the future of environmental conservation. In the 2021-2022 academic year, approximately 7,500 environmental science bachelor’s degrees were awarded, according to data from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
This interdisciplinary major brings together the studies of:
- ecology
- geology
- hydrology
Coursework is in:
- environmental policy
- environmental politics
- sustainability
- global climate change
16. Information Technology

What sets information technology (IT) apart from other computer-focused disciplines is its focus on using computers to solve the problems and needs of businesses and organizations.
IT encompasses the hardware and physical infrastructure of computer systems and networks as well as:
- governance policies
- system maintenance
- tech support services
- network security
See Also: Top Bachelor’s in Information Technology
17. Religious Studies

As of 2020, more than two-thirds of American survey respondents reported having some religious affiliation, according to the Pew Research Center. Majoring in religious studies will expand your knowledge of religions like:
- Judaism
- Christianity
- Islam
- Hinduism
- Buddhism
Students of religious studies gain knowledge about the world around them and improve skills in reading, writing, and critical thinking.
18. Music

Mastering an instrument takes years of practice. If you prioritize your art in college, you might opt to pursue a Bachelor of Music or Bachelor of Arts in music. In 2021-2022, around 11,168 bachelor’s degrees in music were awarded across the United States.
19. Physics

Physics is a math-heavy branch of science that explores the matter, forces, and laws that compose the universe. According to the American Institute of Physics (AIP), 8,618 bachelor’s degrees in physics were awarded in the 2021-2022 academic year. This represents a slight decline compared to previous years after two decades of steady increases. Although physicists often need a doctorate, the American Institute of Physics reported that companies are hiring candidates with bachelor’s degrees in physics in:
- technology
- banking and finance
- engineering
- healthcare
20. Education

Teachers shape the knowledge of the next generation, so it’s difficult to overstate their importance. In the 2021-2022 academic year, approximately 83,946 bachelor’s degrees were awarded in education programs across the United States, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). This represents about 4% of all bachelor’s degrees conferred that year, reflecting the ongoing demand for educators despite the general decline in education degree completions over the past two decades
In traditional coursework and student-teaching experience, aspiring teachers learn the theories of teaching and strategies for lesson planning and classroom management. They develop:
- critical thinking skills
- communication skills
- problem- solving skils
21. English

The misconception that an English degree is worthless for earning a living hasn’t dampened the enthusiasm of reading and writing aficionados. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), approximately 39,335 bachelor’s degrees were awarded in English language and literature programs in the 2021-2022 academic year. This figure represents a slight decline from previous years, reflecting broader trends where fewer students are enrolling in traditional humanities programs in favor of STEM and business-related degrees.
English majors spend a lot of time:
- reading
- writing
- editing
Some write literary analyses and others produce creative works.
22. Legal Studies

A major in legal studies may appeal to anyone who wants to work in the legal industry, whether as a legal assistant, paralegal, probation or law enforcement officer, lawyer, or judge. A bachelor’s degree in legal studies provides an undergraduate background in all varieties of civil and criminal law and helps students build their skills in legal writing and conducting legal research.
Related Resource: Best Bachelor’s in Business Law Degree Programs
23. Architecture

The aesthetic and functional design of buildings and structures is the focus of the field of architecture. Students in a Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) degree program spend so much time “learning by doing” in the design studio that these programs require a fifth year of study. They also study building, structural, and environmental systems that affect architectural design.
24. Culinary Arts

Foodies flourish in a culinary arts program, which teaches them the skills to master safe and delicious food preparation. Although culinary arts programs are more common (and popular) at the associate’s degree level than the bachelor’s degree level, pursuing an undergraduate degree in the subject is particularly helpful if you want to work as a head chef or restaurateur.
25. Pharmaceutical Sciences

You won’t be qualified as a licensed pharmacist after earning an undergraduate degree in pharmaceutical sciences, but that is one path to consider if you pursue doctoral training. Pharmaceutical sciences graduates often work in drug research and development in the pharmaceutical industry.
Bachelor’s degrees in pharmaceutical sciences cover:
- Drug classes
- Immunology
- Biochemistry
- Pathophysiology
- Dosage forms
- Drug discovery
- Development methods
26. Accounting

More than 50,000 undergraduate degrees in accounting were awarded from 2018-2019, according to the NCES, making it a common college major. In the 2021-2022 academic year, 47,067 bachelor’s degrees in accounting were awarded in the United States. This represented a 7.8% decline compared to the previous year, reflecting broader trends of decreasing enrollments in accounting programs. These figures come from the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) report on trends in accounting education and the CPA profession. Accounting is the discipline concerned with financial recording and reporting.
Undergraduate accounting students learn to create financial statements, such as balance sheets and income and cash statements, as well as study managerial accounting methods to develop the skills for identifying opportunities for business improvement.
27. Marketing

Often confused with sales, marketing focuses on the strategies and campaigns used to generate customer interest in a product, service, or brand. Marketing majors study the process of conducting market research, analyzing data, developing marketing strategies with consumer behavior in mind, and coordinating and managing campaigns.
28. Elementary Education

Elementary school teachers generally teach the first through fifth or sixth grades, although at certain schools, they may teach up to the eighth-grade level, according to the BLS.
29. Finance

Finance is the business major that deals with monetary wealth. Coursework in finance might encompass:
- Investments
- Security analysis and valuation
- Risk management
- Banking
- Business finance
- Financial analysis
- Financial management
- Financial technology
A finance major might end up working in high-paying roles in financial planning, portfolio analysis, financial analysis, and other roles in banking, insurance, and risk management.
30. Mechanical Engineering

In the 2021-2022 academic year, approximately 44,794 bachelor’s degrees in mechanical engineering were awarded in the United States. Mechanical engineering continues to be a highly popular and versatile major, offering graduates a wide range of career opportunities across industries such as aerospace, automotive, energy, and manufacturing. Mechanical engineering refers to the application of engineering principles to mechanical systems, or systems made up of moving parts.
Mechanical engineers design large and small machines, from automotive engines and HVAC systems to minuscule microbots for biomedical applications.
31. Sociology

In sociology, you study social relationships, behaviors, institutions, and norms.
Sociology majors take classes in the principles of sociology, statistical methods and data analysis for sociology, qualitative research methods, and areas of specialized interest, such as social groups or problems.
32. Commercial Art & Graphic Design

For artistic students, a major in graphic design might be a happy medium between pursuing their passion and preparing for a plausible career. Graphic designers create the visual messaging used by businesses and organizations and may be self-employed or work for:
- Design agencies
- Advertising agencies
- Printing companies
- Publishers
33. Journalism

The BLS expects a 3% decline in News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists from 2023 to 2033. This decline is likely due to modern media offering new professional inroads that are not as reliant on traditional degrees and education. Despite this, journalism and media remain popular college majors.
Journalism students take classes in writing and reporting, news editing, and audio/visual newsgathering. Additional coursework may focus on investigative reporting and newsroom management.
34. Computer and Information Systems

If IT is an interdisciplinary computer field due to its focus on business needs, computer information systems is even more so. This field emphasizes the strategic choice of computer solutions for businesses.
Computer information systems professionals aren’t just looking at how business technology works but instead at which technologies to choose, so they need a big-picture view of business operations and strategies. IT professionals are in high demand, so naturally computer and information systems is a popular major in 2024.
35. Social Work

Another of the most popular college majors of 2024 is social work, the discipline concerned with promoting the welfare of families and communities. The BLS reported that opportunities for social workers are growing at a rate of 7% from 2023-2033, much faster than the national average rate of growth. Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) programs emphasize the skills for social work practice.
Conclusion
So, what is the best degree to get in 2024?
The answer is specific to your personal goals, interests, and skills. It’s wise to consider the most common college majors, but the most popular college majors and the subjects that correspond to the jobs with the most growth aren’t the right fit for every student.
Getting to know yourself and your plans for the future will guide you in the right direction. To help with this, check out some pros and cons to pursuing one of the top 5 most popular college majors in 2024:
1. Business
- Pros: High demand, versatile career options, strong earning potential.
- Cons: Competitive job market, may require further specialization (e.g., MBA).
2. Health Professions
- Pros: Job security, growing industry, meaningful work.
- Cons: Intensive programs, demanding work environments.
3. Social Sciences and History
- Pros: Broad knowledge base, strong research skills, opportunities in education, law, and policy.
- Cons: Lower starting salaries, fewer direct career paths.
4. Biological and Biomedical Sciences
- Pros: Prepares for healthcare or research careers, high-demand fields.
- Cons: May require graduate studies for advanced careers.
5. Psychology
- Pros: Opportunities in counseling, research, human resources.
- Cons: Advanced degrees often required for clinical roles, competitive job market.
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- What is a Major in College? How to Choose the Right Field of Study