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How do I select which major is best for me?
Hi everyone!
I'm currently a freshman at a community college with a general liberal arts major. I'm quite interested in both business/entrepreneurship and psychology. The only hesitation in pursuing one or the other is the job opportunities afterward. I'd like to move forward within the psychology sector but I don't want to work in clinical psychology. After researching, I have heard that it is difficult to gain financial success unless you receive higher education within the field. Also, I'd like to move forward in business/entrepreneurship but arithmetics is not my strong suit. What would you suggest my next steps be? Or any guidance?
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14 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
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Paul’s Answer
Do what you love and are passionate to do in life. If you love what you are doing and are good at what you are doing in life, then the money will eventually follow.
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Vanessa’s Answer
Hey Janae! It's a fantastic idea to explore both your passions right now. Remember, the best way to discover what you truly love is by gaining firsthand experience. As you delve deeper into your psychology and business studies, you might realize that one might not be as fulfilling or enjoyable as you initially thought. But that's perfectly okay! It's all part of the journey towards finding what truly resonates with you. Keep going, and remember, every step you take is bringing you closer to your ideal career.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Janae,
To help you make an informed decision about which major is best for you, considering your interests in business/entrepreneurship and psychology, I’d suggest the following steps:
Research Career Paths: Start by exploring the potential career paths within each field. For business/entrepreneurship, consider roles such as marketing manager, sales manager, human resources manager, or entrepreneur. In psychology, you might look into industrial-organizational psychology, educational psychology, or counseling psychology. Research the job duties, required skills, and average salaries for these positions.
Identify Your Strengths and Weaknesses: Reflect on your personal strengths and weaknesses. If you excel in mathematics and enjoy analyzing data, business/entrepreneurship may be a good fit. On the other hand, if you have strong communication skills and are empathetic towards others, psychology might be more suitable.
Explore Educational Requirements: Look into the educational requirements for each field. For business/entrepreneurship, a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or a related field is often sufficient for entry-level positions. However, advanced degrees like an MBA can lead to higher salaries and more opportunities. In psychology, a Bachelor’s degree is typically a prerequisite for graduate study in the field. A Master’s or Doctoral degree is often required for professional practice as a psychologist.
Consider Your Long-Term Goals: Think about your long-term career goals and how each major aligns with them. If you aspire to start your own business or work in a leadership role within an organization, business/entrepreneurship may be the better choice. If you want to help people overcome challenges and improve their lives through counseling or researching human behavior, then psychology might be more suitable for you.
Network and Seek Advice: Reach out to professionals in both fields to learn more about their experiences and insights into the job market. Attend industry events or join professional organizations to expand your network and gain valuable connections that could lead to future opportunities.
Consult with Academic Advisors: Speak with academic advisors at your college or university to discuss your options further and get personalized recommendations based on your interests and goals.**
Authoritative References Used:
Bureau of Labor Statistics - Occupational Outlook Handbook (www.bls.gov)
American Psychological Association (www.apa.org)
National Center for Education Statistics (nces.ed.gov)
God Bless You,
JC.
To help you make an informed decision about which major is best for you, considering your interests in business/entrepreneurship and psychology, I’d suggest the following steps:
Research Career Paths: Start by exploring the potential career paths within each field. For business/entrepreneurship, consider roles such as marketing manager, sales manager, human resources manager, or entrepreneur. In psychology, you might look into industrial-organizational psychology, educational psychology, or counseling psychology. Research the job duties, required skills, and average salaries for these positions.
Identify Your Strengths and Weaknesses: Reflect on your personal strengths and weaknesses. If you excel in mathematics and enjoy analyzing data, business/entrepreneurship may be a good fit. On the other hand, if you have strong communication skills and are empathetic towards others, psychology might be more suitable.
Explore Educational Requirements: Look into the educational requirements for each field. For business/entrepreneurship, a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or a related field is often sufficient for entry-level positions. However, advanced degrees like an MBA can lead to higher salaries and more opportunities. In psychology, a Bachelor’s degree is typically a prerequisite for graduate study in the field. A Master’s or Doctoral degree is often required for professional practice as a psychologist.
Consider Your Long-Term Goals: Think about your long-term career goals and how each major aligns with them. If you aspire to start your own business or work in a leadership role within an organization, business/entrepreneurship may be the better choice. If you want to help people overcome challenges and improve their lives through counseling or researching human behavior, then psychology might be more suitable for you.
Network and Seek Advice: Reach out to professionals in both fields to learn more about their experiences and insights into the job market. Attend industry events or join professional organizations to expand your network and gain valuable connections that could lead to future opportunities.
Consult with Academic Advisors: Speak with academic advisors at your college or university to discuss your options further and get personalized recommendations based on your interests and goals.**
Authoritative References Used:
Bureau of Labor Statistics - Occupational Outlook Handbook (www.bls.gov)
American Psychological Association (www.apa.org)
National Center for Education Statistics (nces.ed.gov)
God Bless You,
JC.
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Joe’s Answer
Hi Janae, It's great to hear about your interests in both business/entrepreneurship and psychology! These fields actually intersect in many ways, and understanding psychology can be highly beneficial in the business world. Although arithmetic may not be your strong suit, fields like marketing and sales often do not require a large amount of difficult equations and math. While there are instances where you will need to pull out a calculator to figure out budgeting and pricing, you'll primarily be working with people, trying to understand their motivations, challenges, goals and personalities. Marketing and sales can be a really cool blend of business tactics and psychology.
Hope this helps.
Hope this helps.
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Annah’s Answer
Janae,
you are asking all the right kind of questions! It sounds like you are in school or finished some higher education. This likely gave you a sense about your interests, yes? You mentioned financial concerns as well- wanting to make a certain salary or having opportunities for advancement. This alone may help narrow your options. What I have learned in life is that there are a million jobs out there you will not find in a book or online. People created such jobs or else they are so obscure you may not realize such a position exists. To add to what others have written, getting to know your personality, your style of learning, what type of work environment you prefer, etc. will help guide you. Think about what you know about yourself now- what you like, love, and also what you dislike. This is all good information! Meet with a career coach or life coach perhaps. Find mentors in the community and interview them. Sit in on graduate classes- all you have to do is ask as a 'potential future student.' Give yourself time to really try out some ideas and take risks. Life is not a straight line. Some careers definitely require a master's and even a doctorate degree. I do not necessarily agree you must make a change to your major. If you are in a two-year program and plan to transfer, you are likely taking all the required courses anyway (all the foundational academic subjects). There are definitely positions that pay well without the need for years of schooling. Business is a broad topic- there are ways to find your niche within this field. But again, you may need an MBA (if not initially, eventually). So do some digging! Consider an internship opportunity. Ultimately you will be the one to figure out what you want to do and again, the path may be winding but you will get there. And there are many, many paths to take. Enjoy the ride.
you are asking all the right kind of questions! It sounds like you are in school or finished some higher education. This likely gave you a sense about your interests, yes? You mentioned financial concerns as well- wanting to make a certain salary or having opportunities for advancement. This alone may help narrow your options. What I have learned in life is that there are a million jobs out there you will not find in a book or online. People created such jobs or else they are so obscure you may not realize such a position exists. To add to what others have written, getting to know your personality, your style of learning, what type of work environment you prefer, etc. will help guide you. Think about what you know about yourself now- what you like, love, and also what you dislike. This is all good information! Meet with a career coach or life coach perhaps. Find mentors in the community and interview them. Sit in on graduate classes- all you have to do is ask as a 'potential future student.' Give yourself time to really try out some ideas and take risks. Life is not a straight line. Some careers definitely require a master's and even a doctorate degree. I do not necessarily agree you must make a change to your major. If you are in a two-year program and plan to transfer, you are likely taking all the required courses anyway (all the foundational academic subjects). There are definitely positions that pay well without the need for years of schooling. Business is a broad topic- there are ways to find your niche within this field. But again, you may need an MBA (if not initially, eventually). So do some digging! Consider an internship opportunity. Ultimately you will be the one to figure out what you want to do and again, the path may be winding but you will get there. And there are many, many paths to take. Enjoy the ride.
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Mariam’s Answer
It sounds like you're torn between two great fields—business/entrepreneurship and psychology. I can relate to this because I’ve always been fascinated by consumer behavior and the psychology behind marketing, which led me to the world of campaign management. It turned out to be the perfect blend of both interests, where I get to apply psychological insights to understand customer motivations and make data-driven decisions in a business context.
If you're interested in psychology but don’t want to pursue clinical work, fields like consumer psychology, marketing, organizational behavior, or human resources could be great options. These areas allow you to use psychological principles without needing a PhD and offer strong career prospects. On the business side, don’t let your hesitation around arithmetic hold you back. Many business roles, like marketing, management, or entrepreneurship, focus more on creativity, strategy, and leadership than on complex math.
If you're interested in psychology but don’t want to pursue clinical work, fields like consumer psychology, marketing, organizational behavior, or human resources could be great options. These areas allow you to use psychological principles without needing a PhD and offer strong career prospects. On the business side, don’t let your hesitation around arithmetic hold you back. Many business roles, like marketing, management, or entrepreneurship, focus more on creativity, strategy, and leadership than on complex math.
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Karim’s Answer
Dear Liy: Congratulations on your big decision and believe it or not must have been the same question at some point, no matter what path you decide to take, be sure to enjoy what you are going to do. A great way to star can be by volunteering at any psychology office available or volunteering with an organization who holds entrepreneurs. Once you see directly how it works it'll help a lot for your decision to make. I wish you luck!
Thank you so much, Karim!
Janae
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Joanne’s Answer
Hi Janae,
You've asked a fantastic question! My academic journey was quite a roller-coaster. I changed my major a few times, finally realizing that my passion lay in business and criminal psychology. I pursued a four-year degree in Criminal Justice, which I enjoyed thoroughly.
Initially, I thought my degree would pave the way to a government job, but I soon realized that it was more about broadening my horizons and knowledge base. I interned and volunteered at various organizations, which helped me understand that while I found the subjects interesting, they were quite intense and didn't quite give me the satisfaction I was seeking.
After using my degree for about a year, I came to the conclusion that it wasn't really my cup of tea. I believe the most important thing for you would be to find what truly makes you happy, both during your academic years and after. I spent a considerable amount of time exploring different subjects and career paths, and finally found my calling in the insurance industry, almost 15 years after graduating from college.
Choosing a career path can indeed be a daunting task, as it feels like this decision will shape the rest of your life. But remember, if you find something you love doing, the effort you put into your work and the financial rewards you seek will come more easily.
You've asked a fantastic question! My academic journey was quite a roller-coaster. I changed my major a few times, finally realizing that my passion lay in business and criminal psychology. I pursued a four-year degree in Criminal Justice, which I enjoyed thoroughly.
Initially, I thought my degree would pave the way to a government job, but I soon realized that it was more about broadening my horizons and knowledge base. I interned and volunteered at various organizations, which helped me understand that while I found the subjects interesting, they were quite intense and didn't quite give me the satisfaction I was seeking.
After using my degree for about a year, I came to the conclusion that it wasn't really my cup of tea. I believe the most important thing for you would be to find what truly makes you happy, both during your academic years and after. I spent a considerable amount of time exploring different subjects and career paths, and finally found my calling in the insurance industry, almost 15 years after graduating from college.
Choosing a career path can indeed be a daunting task, as it feels like this decision will shape the rest of your life. But remember, if you find something you love doing, the effort you put into your work and the financial rewards you seek will come more easily.
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Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Janae !
You have great subject interests and after reading your inquiry, I believe that you should perhaps consider a couple of majors or careers other than psychology. It's true what you've said about psychology and it would be an intensive, long-term stay in college, so really think about this.
I think that either a Business Management/Administration or a Human Resources Major would be ideal for you. Sometimes the math involved in these are basically accounting or statistics. Some of the usual math involved are Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Economics, Statistics for Business, Business Calculus, Financial Mathematics, Data Analysis for Business, and Operations Research. But look at the course catalog to be sure if you haven't already. You could also take a Business Psychology course in your business department on campus for your Business degree. You can also take Psychology to fulfill an elective if you haven't done so already. Both psychology and business paths require a great deal of time, focus and work.
So, you are in the major city of Boston and there are many opportunities for both business as well as psychology. That being said, you cannot worry about what the job market would be like in three or four years. If everyone based it on that no one would go to college because they'd all be conjuring up ways to not do something because "there will be no jobs" as they think or are convinced.
A business degree will be great in the respect that you'd be able to actually work around the mental health field, too. Look into what non-profits are. Service offices/agencies are very business oriented. Your business degree can possibly lead you towards an administration position with a non-profit and trust me, those positions pay very well in major cities. Try not to overthink or predict - go with your passion and what you are most drawn to. Enjoy your college experience and take it a step at a time. That will give you the opportunity to discover exactly what you want to do. And besides, if any math is difficult for you, you can seek on-campus tutoring for it.
The Business degree would also be important in helping you with the entrepreneurship you are interested in doing. If you major in Business, it very well may be possible for you to begin your entrepreneurship while you are still a student. The Business Department at your school will be a wealth of support, resources, networking and collaboration with other students you will meet.
I would also advise that you switch your major from Liberal Arts as soon as possible. Speak to an academic counselor on campus and see what is needed to switch your major as soon as you are sure about it. I'm not sure if your intent is for an Associates Degree or a Bachelors Degree. I would have additional advice if I knew that.
I hope that this is something you'll consider and I wish you all the best with your college experience !
You have great subject interests and after reading your inquiry, I believe that you should perhaps consider a couple of majors or careers other than psychology. It's true what you've said about psychology and it would be an intensive, long-term stay in college, so really think about this.
I think that either a Business Management/Administration or a Human Resources Major would be ideal for you. Sometimes the math involved in these are basically accounting or statistics. Some of the usual math involved are Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Economics, Statistics for Business, Business Calculus, Financial Mathematics, Data Analysis for Business, and Operations Research. But look at the course catalog to be sure if you haven't already. You could also take a Business Psychology course in your business department on campus for your Business degree. You can also take Psychology to fulfill an elective if you haven't done so already. Both psychology and business paths require a great deal of time, focus and work.
So, you are in the major city of Boston and there are many opportunities for both business as well as psychology. That being said, you cannot worry about what the job market would be like in three or four years. If everyone based it on that no one would go to college because they'd all be conjuring up ways to not do something because "there will be no jobs" as they think or are convinced.
A business degree will be great in the respect that you'd be able to actually work around the mental health field, too. Look into what non-profits are. Service offices/agencies are very business oriented. Your business degree can possibly lead you towards an administration position with a non-profit and trust me, those positions pay very well in major cities. Try not to overthink or predict - go with your passion and what you are most drawn to. Enjoy your college experience and take it a step at a time. That will give you the opportunity to discover exactly what you want to do. And besides, if any math is difficult for you, you can seek on-campus tutoring for it.
The Business degree would also be important in helping you with the entrepreneurship you are interested in doing. If you major in Business, it very well may be possible for you to begin your entrepreneurship while you are still a student. The Business Department at your school will be a wealth of support, resources, networking and collaboration with other students you will meet.
I would also advise that you switch your major from Liberal Arts as soon as possible. Speak to an academic counselor on campus and see what is needed to switch your major as soon as you are sure about it. I'm not sure if your intent is for an Associates Degree or a Bachelors Degree. I would have additional advice if I knew that.
I hope that this is something you'll consider and I wish you all the best with your college experience !
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Jim’s Answer
Hi Janae,
Select the subject you like most in high school, and study or major that in college. You can visit the Career Center in college to explore the opportunities within your major. You can discuss with your school counselor. Internship is another way to explore your future career. You can start working in the industry which you are interested in. If you know someone or any related professionals, you can also ask and discuss your interest with them.
Good luck!
Select the subject you like most in high school, and study or major that in college. You can visit the Career Center in college to explore the opportunities within your major. You can discuss with your school counselor. Internship is another way to explore your future career. You can start working in the industry which you are interested in. If you know someone or any related professionals, you can also ask and discuss your interest with them.
Good luck!
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Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Janae,
Given your interests in both psychology and business/entrepreneurship, consider exploring majors like organizational psychology, human resources management, or even behavioral economics. These blend elements of psychology with business applications and offer diverse career paths beyond clinical settings.
Additionally, consider gaining practical experience through internships or part-time work to better understand which field aligns best with your skills and interests. Have it at the back of your mind that success in any field often requires continuous learning and skill development, so don't let initial hesitations hold you back from pursuing your passions.
Good luck to you.
Given your interests in both psychology and business/entrepreneurship, consider exploring majors like organizational psychology, human resources management, or even behavioral economics. These blend elements of psychology with business applications and offer diverse career paths beyond clinical settings.
Additionally, consider gaining practical experience through internships or part-time work to better understand which field aligns best with your skills and interests. Have it at the back of your mind that success in any field often requires continuous learning and skill development, so don't let initial hesitations hold you back from pursuing your passions.
Good luck to you.
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Chloe’s Answer
Hello there! Just like you, I also had a keen interest in psychology for a while. But my research led me to understand that most psychology jobs typically require an advanced degree beyond a bachelor's. So, here's an idea for you. You could consider going for a business degree and taking psychology as a minor. On the other hand, if your heart is set on psychology, you could major in it and have business as your minor. I would, however, caution against a double major unless you're absolutely certain about handling the additional coursework and study hours, as it can be quite demanding. Wishing you all the best on your journey!
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Karen’s Answer
Hello Janae, The first thing you should consider is how you feel when making the two options that you like. How each one of them makes you feel. Sometimes the things we like the most are the ones that are easiest for us to do because of the passion we put into the things we do.
In my experience I have really enjoyed creating desserts, decorating and seeing the faces of the people who enjoy them. That sensation is what gives you satisfaction and makes you feel very good. Monetary remuneration is something that is added to the final product, so don't think so much about what will give you the most money, think more about what will make you happy, the rest will take care of itself. Just strive to keep learning, always do the best you can.
Enjoy the road. 😌😉
In my experience I have really enjoyed creating desserts, decorating and seeing the faces of the people who enjoy them. That sensation is what gives you satisfaction and makes you feel very good. Monetary remuneration is something that is added to the final product, so don't think so much about what will give you the most money, think more about what will make you happy, the rest will take care of itself. Just strive to keep learning, always do the best you can.
Enjoy the road. 😌😉
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Melanie’s Answer
Hi Janae!
Does your community college offer a Business Management 101 class (or something similar)? If so, it would be a good idea to take the class to test how much the topics interest you versus your psychology interest. The intro class could give you good exposure to the elements of business (strategy, operations, people, etc.). Based on how much you like or dislike the elements, you may have your answer on which direction to go.
Best of luck!
Does your community college offer a Business Management 101 class (or something similar)? If so, it would be a good idea to take the class to test how much the topics interest you versus your psychology interest. The intro class could give you good exposure to the elements of business (strategy, operations, people, etc.). Based on how much you like or dislike the elements, you may have your answer on which direction to go.
Best of luck!