Choosing Your U.S. College Major – Practical Guide

Unsure about which major to choose for U.S. college? This PPT offers a practical guide for Nepali high school graduates to make informed decisions. It explains how to align academic strengths with career aspirations, highlights STEM vs. Non-STEM options, and covers long-term opportunities. With guidance from Edwise Foundation, students can confidently select majors that fit their goals and maximize study abroad success.

1. Study in the USA:
Choosing Your College
Major

Deciding on a college major in the United States is a significant
step after high school. The U.S. higher education system offers
diverse academic programs, each leading to unique career
paths. This presentation aims to provide clear, actionable
insights to help you make an informed decision that aligns with
your aspirations and the demands of the global job market.

2. Key Considerations for Your Major
Choice
Further Education
Requirements

Academic Strengths And
Interests

Reflect on subjects you excelled
in and genuinely enjoyed during
high school.
Factor in additional time and
financial commitment for
graduate studies if required.
Skill Development
Consider what skills you want to
acquire: analytical, hands-on,
creative, or interpersonal.
Career Prospects And
Demand
Research current job market
trends in the U.S. and globally
for future opportunities.
Flexibility And
Transferability
Choose majors with transferable
skills applicable across various
industries.

3. Spotlight on Popular Majors

What it entails: Study of computation and information,
encompassing theoretical foundations, algorithms,
programming, and hardware.
Here are insights into some majors highly sought after by international students, including those from Nepal:
1. Computer Science (CS) 2. Business and Management
Career Prospects: Software Developer, Data Scientist,
Cybersecurity Analyst, Web Developer, AI/Machine
Learning Engineer.
Why it's popular: High demand, competitive salaries,
and continuous growth in the tech industry.
What it entails: Comprehensive understanding of how
organizations operate, including economics, management,
finance, and marketing.
Career Prospects: Financial Analyst, Marketing
Specialist, Accountant, HR Specialist, Operations
Manager, Entrepreneur.
Why it's popular: Broad applicability, strong earning
potential, and leadership opportunities.

4. Spotlight on Popular Majors (Cont.)
3. Engineering 4. Nursing
What it entails: Applying scientific and mathematical principles
to design, build, and maintain structures, machines, and systems.
Includes Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and Computer Engineering.
What it entails: Healthcare profession focused
on patient care, emphasizing theoretical
knowledge and practical clinical experience.
Career Prospects: Civil Engineer, Electrical Engineer,
Mechanical Engineer, Computer Hardware Engineer.
Why it's popular: Challenging problems, strong career
stability, and contributions to technological advancement.
Career Prospects: Registered Nurse (RN), Specialty
Nursing, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN).
Why it's popular: Stable, respected, and highly
impactful career with diverse settings and opportunities.

5. Spotlight on Popular Majors (Cont.)
5. Biology and Health Sciences

6.Social Sciences
What it entails: Explores human behavior, society,
and social institutions. Includes Psychology, Sociology,
Economics, and International Relations.
What it entails: Scientific study of life and various
disciplines focused on human health, including Biology,
Public Health, and Biotechnology.
Career Prospects: Healthcare Professions (Doctor, Dentist),
Research Scientist, Public Health Specialist, Biotechnologist.
Why it's popular: For students interested in human well-
being, scientific discovery, and global health.
Career Prospects: Counselor, Social Worker,
Researcher, Policy Analyst, HR, Diplomacy.
Why it's popular: Appeals to students interested in
understanding complex human systems and social welfare.

6. Spotlight on Popular
Majors (Cont.)

7. FineArts

What it entails: Develops creative expression and artistic skills,
including Visual Arts, Music, Theatre, and Graphic Design.
Career Prospects: Graphic Designer, Illustrator, Animator,
Photographer, Music/Theatre Performer or Educator, Arts
Administrator, Freelance Artist/Designer.
Why it's popular: Provides a dedicated academic path for artistic
talents, with growing opportunities in digital and creative industries.

7. Navigating Your Decision
01
02
03
Consider an "Undecided"
Path
Internships And Experiential
Learning
Choosing your major is a process of discovery. By considering your strengths, researching fields, and utilizing
resources, you can confidently embark on your academic journey in the U.S.
Utilize University
Resources
Engage with career services, academic
advisors, and faculty for in-depth
information.
Many U.S. colleges allow students to
enter as "undeclared," providing
time to explore.
Seek internships, volunteer
opportunities, and research for real-
world insights and networking.

8. Frequently Asked Questions
How do I decide which
U.S. college major is right
for me?

Assess your academic strengths,
interests, and career goals.
Research job market demand
and talk to counselors.
What are the highest
paying majors in the
U.S.?
Computer Science, Engineering,
Nursing, and Business often lead
to high-paying roles due to strong
demand.
Can I change my
major after starting
college in the U.S.?
Yes, many U.S. universities allow
students to change majors or
declare later, offering flexibility.
Which U.S. majors are popular among
Nepali students?
Computer Science, Business, Nursing, and Engineering
are top choices because of strong career prospects.
Which U.S. majors are popular among
Nepali students?
Computer Science, Business, Nursing, and Engineering
are top choices because of strong career prospects.

9. Start Your Journey
Today!
At Edwise Foundation, we specialize in helping students
navigate these crucial decisions. Our experienced counselors
provide personalized guidance to identify your strengths, align
them with the right-fit majors and universities in the U.S., and
support you through every step of your application process.
Contact Us Learn More