Which Degree or Major is Best for You? A Comprehensive Guide to Making the Right Choice

I often hear from students who are anxious about choosing the right degree or major. It's a critical decision that shapes your academic journey and future career, and it’s natural to have questions.

In this blog post, I’ll provide expert advice on how to choose the degree or major that’s best for you, covering everything from identifying your passions to considering the teaching quality at your chosen institution.

Understanding Your Passion: The First Step in Choosing a Major

What do you love?

Your passion should be the cornerstone of your decision-making process. Think about the subjects you enjoy most and the activities that excite you. Whether it's solving complex math problems, exploring historical events, or creating art, your enthusiasm for a subject can lead to a fulfilling academic and professional life.

Questions to ask yourself:

What subjects or activities make you lose track of time?
Which topics do you find yourself reading or researching outside of school?
Do you see yourself building a career around these interests?

Aligning Your Major with Career Goals

Why do you want to study this?

It's essential to think about how your chosen major aligns with your long-term career goals. What career paths are available with this degree? Does this degree offer the skills and knowledge needed for your desired job? Some degrees, like architecture or medicine, have clear career paths, while others, such as humanities or social sciences, offer broader opportunities.

Enhance Your Application and Stand Out from the Crowd

What are you doing to enhance your application?

It’s not all about grades. Admissions teams look for applicants who demonstrate a genuine interest in their chosen field. This will be through your portfolio but it can also be shown in your extracurricular activities, work experience, or even independent projects.

Participate in relevant extracurricular activities or clubs.
Gain work experience or internships related to your field.
Take online courses or certifications to build your skills.

External Influences: Are They Helping or Hindering Your Choice?

Are people influencing your choice?

Family, friends, and teachers often have strong opinions about what you should study. While their advice can be valuable, your decision should reflect your interests and goals, not theirs.

Are you choosing this major because you genuinely want to, or because someone else thinks it’s best for you? Have you explored all your options, or are you focusing on one because of external pressure? Is this degree in line with your personal and professional aspirations?

READ: University Advice, what is best for you.

do your Research and ask questions

Where specialises in your subject?

Not all universities or colleges are equal in every subject. Some institutions have renowned programs and faculty that can significantly enhance your learning experience. Make sure to research all of these points and check who you will be learning from.

Which universities are known for excellence in your chosen field? I studied at the university where my favourite architect hired most of his staff. This was important to me, enough for employment reasons but he obviously respected the academic team and quality of education.

Don’t assume that the academic teaching staff are all equal, they are not. Research them and find out their qualifications, experience, and if they work in practice whilst teaching a day or two a week. Do the professors have notable research in the field? If they are researching, can you be involved in this?

Don’t be afraid to ask about the institution’s ranking in your subject compared with others. You want to study at the best school, under the best lecturers.

The quality of teaching can vary significantly from one institution to another so ask about the faculty-to-student ratio. How approachable and supportive are the teaching staff?

Your Learning Environment: Finding the Right Fit

What type of education do you want?

Different learning environments can greatly impact your academic success. Some students thrive in traditional lecture-based settings, while others prefer hands-on, practical learning.

Some universities are large with a wide range of resources whilst some smaller colleges offer a more close-knit community. What do you think you would prefer? Are you more comfortable with lecture-based learning or interactive, seminar-style classes? What type of campus culture and student life are you looking for?

READ: University Advice, types of learning

Choosing the right degree or major is a personal and important decision. By reflecting on your passions, career goals, and learning preferences, you can make an informed choice that sets you on the path to success.

If you have any questions or need further advice, feel free to leave a comment below, and I’ll do my best to help.