How to choose a major? A 5-step guide

Short answer: When choosing a major, look at where three questions overlap: what can I do (skills), what do I enjoy doing (interest) and what does the market need (outlook). A choice based only on a popular or high-paying field may bring regret later. To learn your interests and strengths, it helps to start with personality and interest tests.

1. Identify your interests

What do you do in your free time? Which subjects or projects attract you? What work could you do for hours without getting tired? Interests are the basis of long-term motivation. Tests based on the Holland (RIASEC) model are widely used for this. You can find out your interest type by taking EDDE's major selection test.

2. Assess your strengths

Your grades, olympiad results, projects and the areas where friends ask you for help are signs. In addition: if you are strong in mathematics, consider engineering, economics and data science; if you are strong in communication, marketing, law and international relations; if you are strong in creativity, design, architecture and media.

3. Research the outlook

• Look at job postings in the field and see which skills are required.
• Look on LinkedIn at where graduates of that major went.
• Talk to professionals in the field.
• Salary is only one factor; also consider working conditions and growth opportunities.

4. Check the programme

The content of a major with the same name can differ between universities. Read the curriculum, electives, internship options and language of instruction. Check whether the modules you are interested in are included.

5. Consider the possibility of changing

In some countries the first year covers general subjects and you can decide the major later, while in others it is chosen at admission and is hard to change afterwards. Check the university's rules before applying.

Typical mistakes when choosing a major

• Choosing under the influence of parents or friends without considering your own interest.
• Relying only on salary.
• Looking at the name of the major without learning its content.
• Leaving the choice to the last day and applying in a rush.
• Not considering that the field may change in the future (automation, artificial intelligence, etc.).

Bachelor's, master's and the major

At bachelor level a broad choice of major is common, while at master's level it is usual to specialise more narrowly. Studying a master's in a different field from your bachelor's is possible, but some programmes require an extra preparation course or experience.

Frequently asked questions

Does the major selection test give an exact result?

A test does not decide, it shows a direction. Discuss the result together with your own skills and interests, ideally with a counsellor.

I am hesitating between several majors.

Compare the curriculum of each and, if possible, try them with a course or an internship. Some universities offer a double major.

My parents want a different field.

Show them the facts you have researched, job market data and your plan. A joint meeting with a counsellor can also help.

If you need help

Take the major selection test and discuss the result in a free consultation. Related article: university rankings.

Related articles: University rankings: how to read QS, THE and ARWU