Choosing the Right Bachelor's Degree: A Guide for Future College Students

Deciding on which bachelor's degree to pursue can be a daunting task, especially if you're not sure about your future career goals. In this article, we'll explore some general advice for selecting a degree program that aligns with your interests and career aspirations.

Understanding Your Interests and Aptitude

As a guide, I suggest that you consider your personal interests, talents, and career goals when choosing a bachelor's degree. Unlike some who might believe certain degrees to be worthless, my perspective is that any offered at a college or university has value. However, you shouldn't choose a degree simply because it's trendy or because someone else says it's a good idea.

Instead, think about what you want to achieve in the long term. What do you envision yourself doing after graduation? How do you imagine your career progressing? Think about the type of impact you would like to have throughout your professional life. These questions can help you make a more informed decision.

Choosing Degrees for a Middle-Class Lifestyle

For those who prioritize a stable, middle-class lifestyle with good earning potential, certain fields may be more suitable. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, data from USCodes can provide insights into job outlooks for various professions in the United States. If your primary goal is to secure a good salary and a comfortable lifestyle, you should consider degrees in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and business.

However, not all STEM or business majors guarantee success. It's important to conduct thorough research and choose a program that aligns with your skills and interests. Additionally, degrees in the arts and humanities may offer cultural enrichment but may not provide the same earning potential as some other fields. While some arts and humanities graduates have achieved great success, they may not be the best fit for those seeking a more traditional middle-class lifestyle with stable earnings.

Evaluating Economic Viability

If financial considerations are a major factor, choose a degree that can provide a return on investment. This means that the degree should lead to a career that offers a salary sufficient to pay back the time and money invested in the program. While it may seem shallow to prioritize financial returns, it's a practical consideration.

You can start by narrowing down your options to broad categories like science, arts, humanities, or business. Explore the course catalogs of universities of interest to get a sense of what is offered. It's not uncommon for students to reconsider their major during the first year or two of college, but it's crucial to approach the decision with thoughtfulness and seriousness, given the cost and commitment involved.

Avoiding Degrees Based Solely on Experience

Another important factor to consider is whether you can achieve your goals through work experience and apprenticeships. For instance, if you can gain the necessary skills or qualifications through practical work rather than formal education, you might want to consider this approach.

User experience and apprenticeships can be very effective, especially for those aiming for high-earning positions in prestigious firms. However, most people won't be in the top 10% of earners in any field, so don't discount traditional degrees solely based on this consideration.

Selecting Degrees Based on Passion

Ultimately, the best degree is one that you are passionate about and which aligns with your interests. Choosing a degree based on subjects you love and have an interest in can make your college experience more fulfilling and enjoyable. Passion can drive you to excel and can make your path more interesting and dynamic.

Remember, the decision is subjective and depends on your personal goals and circumstances. Take the time to research and explore different fields before making a decision. By doing so, you can set yourself up for a fulfilling and successful future.

Best of luck on your college journey!

Best regards,
Jim