Major to Career
Biology Major
"Due to the vast range of biology specialties, there are thousands of biology and science degree programs across the country. Many biology careers require master’s degrees or PhD-level course work. Online degrees are an ever-growing trend in the field of biology, allowing students the opportunity to pursue advanced degree without sacrificing work or family commitments. These online programs often include brief residencies or allow students to arrange fieldwork or internships locally, so that they can get the hands-on experience they need."
(https://www.worldwidelearn.com/guide-to/science/biology-major/)
Bachelors Degree in Biology: "In addition to biology courses, bachelor’s degree programs in biology are likely to explore related fields like chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Biology majors can take advantage of minors and electives to build unique sets of skills that can benefit them in the specific career path they intend to pursue after graduation: lobbyists, journalists, environmentalists, etc."(https://www.worldwidelearn.com/guide-to/science/biology-major/)
Some Careers:
- Research Scientist
- Teacher
- Forensic Scientist
- Zoo Biologist
- Ecologist
What Are Some Helpful High School Courses To Take?
- Biology/AP Biology
- Physics
- Environmental Science
- Calculus
- Chemistry/AP Chemistry
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Political Science Major
Political Science is the study of politics and government at the local, state, national, and even international level. Students build skills that help them analyze, theorize, and research political issues to then be able to address them.
"During a political science program, students read documents, retrieve data, and build arguments based on their analysis. They also engage in debates on current events, work together on group projects, and gain practical experience during internships. Through coursework, research papers, and internships, political science students gain valuable skills."
(https://www.bestcolleges.com/careers/humanities-and-social-sciences/political-science/)
Some Careers:
- Policy Analyst
- Journalist
- Lawyer
- Political Scientist
- Government Official
- Legislative Assistant
- State Legislator
- Political Science Professor
What Are Some Helpful High School Courses To Take?
- Statistics
- AP World History
- AP U.S. History
- AP U.S. Government and Politics
Some Political Science Schools:
- Princeton University
- Williams College
- Stanford University
- UC Berkeley
- Columbia
- Duke University
- Georgetown University
- University of Washington
- University of Chicago
Check out our Instagram post for more: https://www.instagram.com/p/CVzOU9KrRFh/
English Major
"As an English major, you are developing a heightened awareness of the power of language. Your considerable vocabulary, understanding of style, advanced critical thinking abilities, and experience writing complex, original work, gives you distinctive verbal capabilities: precision, subtlety, persuasiveness, and clarity all number among the tools at your disposal. Your knowledge of historical trends in, and applications of, written discourse, further strengthens your analytical abilities and your engagement with modern writing in any field. These qualities, coupled with the skill to communicate clearly and effectively, will serve you well in a wide range of fields."
(https://english.stanford.edu/academicsbachelor-arts/careers-after-english-major)
Some Careers:
- Teacher or Professor
- Journalist
- Reporter
- Attorney
- Entertainment (Example: Filmmaking)
Top Ranked English Major Schools:
- Yale University
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of Chicago
- Columbia University
- University of Virginia
- Brown University
- University of Texas - Austin
What Are Some Helpful High School Courses To Take?
- AP U.S. History
- AP English Literature
- AP English Language
- Creative Writing
- Journalism
***Keep in mind that there are other top ranked institutions, but these schools are derived from the U.S. News and World Report's 2021 Ranking.
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Economics Major
The study of economics is the study of choices. How should a society allocate and distribute its resources? Which needs should have the highest priority and which are less important? Economists study how people use their limited resources to satisfy their unlimited wants. They create scientific models to explain why people behave the way they do and use these models — along with observations of the world — to analyze and explain why things happen the way they do. Based on this knowledge, they propose solutions to problems that may at first seem surprising, but that prove to work well in practice. Economists work in all areas of government and industry, in positions ranging from stock market analysis to sports marketing and banking regulation."
(https://www.ucdavis.edu/majors/economics)
Some Careers:
- Lawyer
- Financial Analyst
- Marketer
- Researcher Analyst
- Accountant
What Are Some Helpful High School Courses To Take?
- AP Macroeconomics
- AP Calculus AB or Calculus BC
- U.S. History
- AP Microeconomics
Major Requirements:
"You will begin with a series of foundation courses in micro- and macroeconomics, statistics, and mathematics. At the upper division level, you will take two courses in economic theory, one course in either American or European economic history, and data analysis. You may then select from courses in areas of particular interest to you. These elective courses range from games theory to financial institutions and international economic development. In rounding out their study of economics, students may complete an internship for credit, take some of their courses overseas through the study abroad program or complete an in-depth economics research project through the honors program."
(https://www.ucdavis.edu/majors/economics)
***Keep in mind that major requirements may vary depending on the school, but to provide perspective, here is UC Davis' requirements.
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History Major
"A history major is a degree path that teaches students to critically examine the past, preparing them to be informed citizens who understand society’s complexities. Unlike in some high school history classes, where students might spend most of their time memorizing dates and facts, undergraduate history majors focus on analysis and evaluation."
(https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/history-major-overview)
Pursuing history at the collegiate level will give you the opportunity to really examine the field in different scopes, build a strong foundation of history, and grant you the ability to interact with the field so that you can really choose the path that suits you!
The coursework is expected, with heavy reading and writing. Courses can typically center on one time period or geographic area where you will heavily examine it. An amazing opportunity that can come along with majoring in history is studying abroad. Of course, you're studying the world, so immersing yourself in another region and not just reading about it can be a very rewarding and educational experience!
Some Careers:
- Policy Analyst
- Teacher
- Paralegal
- Professor
- Archivist
- Museum Educator
- Historian
- Museum Curator
Some Good History Major Schools:
- Claremont Mckenna College
- Georgetown University
- Princeton University
- Columbia University
- Yale University
- University of San Diego
- Vanderbilt University
- Barnard College
- Pomona College
Check out our Instagram post for more: https://www.instagram.com/p/CVdZrr5vy_k/
Criminology Major
"Criminology is the study of crime. Students who major in criminology learn about the causes of crime related to biology, psychology, or social factors like socioeconomic status. These majors examine crime in different places, ranging from neighborhoods to other countries. They’ll analyze those crimes over time, developing strong research skills in the process. Some schools pair criminology with criminal justice as a major. In those cases, students also get an education in the criminal justice system and its role in combating crime."
(https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/criminology-major-overview)
Some Careers:
- Probation Officer
- Detective
- Police Officer
- Paralegal
- Forensic Science Technician
- Social Service Managers
- Private Investigator
What Are Some Helpful High School Courses To Take?
- Sociology
- Government
- History
- AP Statistics
- AP Psychology
Common Coursework:
"A criminology major’s courseload includes introductories to criminology and criminal justice, and may include courses related to sociopolitical aspects of crime, such as the death penalty, deviance and social control, and public policy analysis. Criminology majors might also take courses on crime analysis, examining how biology, psychology and social issues impact crime. Examples of these courses include everything from abnormal psychology to cognitive neuroscience. These majors can also expect to take a handful of classes to hone their research skills, such as statistics, field methods for sociological research and data science. Since criminology is a field that works closely with the law, students might also take classes related to criminal law, including topics such as the history of American law, philosophy of law, and law and criminal justice." (https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/criminology-major-overview)
Does This Major Suit You?
Having an interest in sociology and pyschology is highly suggested! Though criminal justice and criminology are very similar majors, criminology dives deep into the social factors. Why was the crime committed? What caused this criminal to commit this? This major is concerned more with the criminal's behavior and their impact on society.
Top Criminology Schools:
- University of Maryland - College Park
- Arizona State University
- UC Irvine
- Pennsylvania State University
- Florida State University
- University of Nevada
In 2021 by the U.S. News and World Report Rankings, these schools were amongst the highest ranked Criminology graduate schools in America.
(https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-humanities-schools/criminology-rankings)
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Computer Science Major
A computer science major can take you in so many different directions! If you're well invested in science and technology, then there are a variety of careers like data scientist or programmer. If you're more creative you can even become a game developer! No matter how far you choose to go in your higher education, there will be a career option in computer science! If you choose to go to graduate school you'll be able to select from a variety of specializations that will help you narrow down the list of career options!
"Computer science is a major for problem solvers who want to learn how to use computers and computational processes to build websites, program robots, mine data and more. Computer science majors may go on to master’s or doctorate programs in the field, and they can work in research and industry. Students will gain experience with the theory and practice of computer science as they explore algorithms, programming languages and operating systems, for example. In classes, majors may apply their learning to topics like computational finance, robotics and network security. Undergraduates may also be able to access research opportunities."
(https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/computer-science-major-overview)
Some Careers:
- Software Developers
- Computer Programmers
- Cybersecurity Consultant
- Database Administer
- System Analyst
- Game Developer
What Are Some Helpful High School Courses To Take?
- AP Chemistry
- AP Statistics
- AP Physics B or C
- AP Calculus BC
Common Coursework:
"Computer science majors must study calculus to earn their degrees, and other relevant math courses include statistics and linear algebra. Introductory computer science classes cover topics like algorithm design, computer organization and abstract data types. After students develop a strong foundation in the major, they can move on to more complicated courses related to data visualization, neural networks and cryptography, among other subjects. At some schools, students may choose to pursue either a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science in computer science. The B.A. contains fewer required classes and may be more relevant for students who plan to work in another field after college. Many degree programs make it possible for students to combine computer science with another discipline, like architecture, electrical engineering or molecular biology. Students interested in research can seek out opportunities with faculty members, develop independent projects and look into relevant coursework."
(https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/computer-science-major-overview)
Some Computer Science Schools:
- Princeton University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology(MIT)
- Pepperdine University
- Stanford University
- UC Berkeley
- Cornell University
- University of Washington
- California Institute of Technology
- University of Texas - Austin
- Harvey Mudd College
- Pomona College
- USC
Check out our Instagram post for more: https://www.instagram.com/p/CVLrvgFBbKc/
Engineering Major
"Students who study general engineering take a wide range of courses in math, natural science, and humanities and social science. More specific engineering principles are taught in concentrations or minors tracks, which include biotechnology, imaging, structural mechanics, environmental engineering, computer engineering, information science and nanotechnology. This major prepares students for many areas of the field with skills like analysis and problem-solving, teamwork and leadership. Engineering can be applied to many areas of work, so the coursework starts broad with introductory and foundational courses, and concludes with advanced topics like management, computer systems, electrical engineering and applied mechanics. Because of the broadness of the field, an engineering major can go in many directions depending on schools’ programs and students’ interests. Those in an engineering major learn how to make systems work better, meet the needs of different groups of people or businesses, and design and develop new products for public use."
(https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/engineering-major-overview)
"Although general engineering majors do exist, more commonly, you’ll be expected to choose a specific type of engineering. There are many different concentrations, such as:
Architectural engineering
Biomedical engineering
Chemical engineering
Civil engineering
Environmental engineering
Mechanical engineering
Software engineering
For every concentration, you can expect to take a number of STEM-related courses, including advanced calculus, linear algebra, statistics, physics, and others, along with lab work. Often, you’ll also be required to take humanities and social science courses, particularly ones with a writing-intensive component. That’s because engineers need to be able to effectively communicate their work, ideas, and findings. Individual majors will require coursework specific to their concentration. For example, chemical engineering majors will probably need to complete organic chemistry, thermodynamics, kinetics, material science, and other courses."
(https://blog.collegevine.com/should-you-major-in-engineering/)
Some Careers:
- Biomedical Engineer
- Civil Engineer
- Technical Writer
- Chemical Engineer
- Mechanical Engineer
- Aeronautical Engineer
- IT Consultant
- Marine Engineer
- Software Engineer
What Branch Suits You Best?
Read this article!
https://www.topuniversities.com/courses/engineering/which-type-engineering-should-you-study
Some Engineering Schools:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- California Institute of Technology
- Stanford University
- Princeton University
- Cornell University
- UC Berkeley
Check out our Instagram post for more: https://www.instagram.com/p/CVQ_AyMvES3/
Psychology Major
Psychology is the study of human behavior and mental processes by applying scientific research methods.
It is one of the most popular undergraduate majors with career opportunities outside of the field of psychology! Interested students can explore careers in work fields like education, healthcare, human resources, investigative work, marketing, and more. "It's also important to know the differences between a bachelor of science in psychology and a bachelor of arts in psychology. A BS in psychology focuses on quantitative skills, while a BA is more theory-based and requires a broader selection of classes in the humanities and social sciences. This type of requirement expands a student's area of study and provides more opportunities to pursue careers in fields outside of psychology. Regardless of whether you choose a BA or BS in psychology, the curricula for these programs focus heavily on research. Baker notes that experience gained through conducting research can be applied to many careers: " 'Students do not need to be interested in graduate work to elect to work in a research lab because the skills gained from these experiences — analytical thinking, problem-solving, following deadlines, detail-orientation, and communication — are relevant to a variety of fields.' "
(https://www.bestcolleges.com/blog/what-can-you-do-with-a-psychology-degree/)
Some Careers:
- Clinical Psychologist
- Counselor
- Behavior Therapist
- Substance Abuse Counselor
- Mental Health Counselor
- School Counselor
- School Psychologist
- Human Resources Director
What Are Some Helpful High School Courses To Take?
- AP Biology
- AP Psychology
- AP Statistics
- Health Science
- Chemistry
Does This Major Suit You?
"A psychology major is a good choice for students who want to work with people and are interested in understanding human behavior and mental processes. Helpful skills for psychology majors include open-mindedness, critical thinking, problem solving and effective communication abilities. By learning how humans tick, students can apply some of the lessons to their own lives and potentially learn about themselves, too. Therefore, this major is for people who can handle stress, social dilemmas and high-pressure situations. Those who don’t want to be psychologists can still major in psychology, as it applies to many career paths and provides a general understanding of people as well as transferable writing, research and analytical skills."
(https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/psychology-major-overview)
Some Psychology Schools:
- Stanford University
- Widener University
- Vanderbilt University
- Rice University
- Duke University
- Georgetown University
- Carnegie Mellon University
These schools were highly ranked from the 2022 Best Colleges for Psychology in America by Niche.
(https://www.niche.com/colleges/search/best-colleges-for-psychology/)
Check out our Instagram post for more: https://www.instagram.com/p/CVTvmQUP8mP/
Chicana/o Studies Major
"Do you want to deeply explore the Chicano/Latino experience? Chicana/o Studies is an international, cross-disciplinary program of research, teaching and public service that provides students with the opportunity to study the experiences, values, cultural representations and socio-economic issues of the Chicano/Latino community. Knowledge of its theoretical and methodological framework also serves students seeking comparative analysis with other populations and global communities."
(https://www.ucdavis.edu/majors/chicana-chicano-studies)
Some Careers:
- Lawyer
- Teacher
- Professor
- Counselor
- Journalist
- Politician
- Ombudsman
- Community Outreach Coordinator
Some Of The Core Courses For San Diego State University(SDSU):
- CCS 301: Political Economy of the Chicano People
- CCS 303: Chicana and Chicano Community Studies
- CCS 306: Mexican Immigration
- CCS 310: Mexican and Chicano Music
- CCS 320: Chicana and Chicano Lifestyles
- CCS 340A: Gender, Sex, and Politics in Colonial Mexico
- CCS 340B: Chicana Women’s History: 1848-Present
- CCS 355: The United States-Mexico International Border
- CCS 375: US/Mexico Border History
- CCS 376: Chicana and Chicano Culture and Thought
***Keep in mind that these are only some of the courses offered at SDSU and that different schools will offer different courses! This is merely to provide insight into what courses you can expect to take. To access the full list of courses offered by SDSU, click HERE.
Some Chicana/o Schools:
- UC Berkeley
- CSU Channel Islands
- Brown University
- UCSB
- UC Davis
- California State University - Long Beach
- UC Santa Cruz
- San Diego State University
- San Francisco State University
Check out our Instagram post for more: https://www.instagram.com/p/CVmVD3nlD65/
Chemistry Major
"Chemistry majors use math, theory, and experimentation to study matter (physical substance). They look at what it’s made of and how it behaves, down to the atomic level." (https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/majors/physical-sciences-chemistry-chemistry)
Some Careers:
- Toxicologist
- Research Scientist
- Chemical Engineer
- Chemical Technician
- Forensic Science Technician
- Educator (Teacher or Professor)
- Biochemist
- Pharmacologist
What Are Some Helpful High School Courses To Take?
- Computer Science
- AP Physics B or C
- AP Chemistry
- AP Biology
- AP Calculus AB or BC
Common College Courses For A Chemistry Major:
- Analytical chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Environmental chemistry
- Inorganic chemistry
- Organic chemistry
- Physical chemistry
- Polymer and materials chemistry
- Spectroscopy and crystallography
- Thermodynamics
Some Chemistry Schools:
- Princeton University
- Brown University
- University of Pennsylvania
- Butler University
- Williams College
- Columbia University
- University of Notre Dame
- Bowdoin College
Check out our Instagram post for more: https://www.instagram.com/p/CV9CQ11vY7o/
Architecture Major
"An architecture major studies the history and theory of design while getting practical experience in creating layouts for buildings. Creativity, precision and skills in math are essential for this field."
(https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/architecture-major-overview
Some Careers:
- Building Architect
- Landscape Architect
- Research Architect
- Urban Planner
- Architectural Technologist
Common Coursework:
"Architecture majors also study theory, history, building structures and building materials. For example, some courses may focus on one building material, like steel or concrete, or on architectural assembly systems. Some programs include classes on sustainability – with topics from global warming to sustainable building metrics – and landscape design. Math and science requirements in architecture programs vary, but common courses may include calculus, geometry and physics."
(https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/architecture-major-overview)
Architecture License:
"Accredited architecture degree holders are equipped to enter the workforce once they’re licensed. The requirements for licensure include having an internship or other professional experience, passing the Architect Registration Examination administered by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards and meeting any state requirements. Once you can call yourself a licensed architect, you can start your own business or work for an architecture firm, a construction company or the government."
(https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/architecture-major-overview)
Some Architecture Schools:
- Princeton University
- California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo
- MIT
- USC
- Rice University
- University of San Francisco
- University of Pennsylvania
- UCLA
- University of Notre Dame
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