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After studying for standardized tests, applying to schools, and leaving home for college, it may feel like the big decisions are over. Getting to campus is an achievement any student should be proud of, but starting a four-year degree comes with its own share of choices.

Top among them is picking a college major. Declaring a major is a personal process based on a student’s interests, strengths, and projected career track. But simply browsing the course catalog to search for the right major is enough to make even the most assured student’s head spin.

[For many undergraduates, choosing a major is intimidating, especially when colleges and universities offer dozens or even hundreds of options. Researching the most popular majors can help undecided students narrow their selection and find the best majors for their interests and professional goals.]

A Major List

While popularity doesn’t need to drive which major you choose, diving into the data on popular college majors can illuminate trends and provide a jumping-off point for college students who just can’t decide how to declare.

Based on Niche’s top majors , ranked by the number of degrees awarded, here’s what students are studying at U.S. colleges and what career tracks they can expect when they leave campus.


💡 Quick Tip: Fund your education with a low-rate, no-fee SoFi private student loan that covers all school-certified costs.

Business and Management

Major Description: An all-encompassing term, business and management programs provide a baseline of business principles, which include critical thinking and analysis. Courses include Accounting, Business Ethics, Team Development, and Human Resources.

Job Opportunities: This broad major provides lots of postgrad directions. It can take graduates on an MBA track or can feed directly into the job market with roles in accounting, marketing, sales, account management, or financial analysis.

Recommended: Return on Education for Bachelor’s Degrees

Nursing

Major Description: There are many pathways to a nursing education. From certifications to master’s degrees, nursing course loads include everything from Anatomy and Chemistry to Statistics and care for specific populations.

Job Opportunities: The demand for nurses is growing as the industry faces a shortage of qualified hires. Graduates with a nursing degree can choose from a variety of career tracks, from being a school nurse or research nurse to working on a cruise ship or in the emergency room.

Psychology

Major Description: Psychology is the deep dive into human behavior and what drives us. A degree in psychology can be a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts, depending on the course load. Areas of study include learning, memory, development, addiction, and childhood development.

Job Opportunities: A bachelor’s degree in psychology could mean heading to a master’s program or a doctorate, or it could lead to immediate employment in fields like marketing, teaching, or human resources.

Biology

Major Description: Biology is the study of living things, so biology majors can expect to spend plenty of class time in the lab, learning everything from human anatomy to molecular biology. It’s a mix of math, science, chemistry, and, of course, biology.

Job Opportunities: Some biology majors may choose the medical school track after graduation, but that’s not the only path to employment. Biology majors can pursue careers in pharmaceuticals, research, genetics, medicine, and even finance (thanks to a background in math and research).

Engineering

Major Description: A degree in engineering means having the critical thinking skills to solve problems. Engineering majors, embodying a mix of math, science, and business, can choose specific areas of study, from the environment to structural mechanics and chemicals.

Job Opportunities: From the laboratory to a construction site or hospital, engineers have a wide variety of career tracks to choose from. Much of this will be informed by a student’s specific area of study. A structural or civil engineer might work on state building projects, while a chemical engineer is more likely to be found in the lab, perfecting everything from medicine to cosmetics.

Recommended: Computer Science vs. Computer Engineering: What’s the Difference?

Education

Major Description: A degree in education includes studying psychology, education, and often an area of expertise (what the student will teach after graduation).

Job Opportunities: A degree in education doesn’t always mean a teaching career. Besides teaching, graduates can go into a variety of industries that support the education system, including school administration, counseling, education policy, or student life.

Recommended: What is a TEACH Grant and How Do You Get One?

Communications

Major Description: Communications is an umbrella term for the study of media and information, from journalism to social media and public relations. Classes a communications major might take are News Writing, Mass Communications, Film Studies, and Social Media.

Job Opportunities: What graduates will do with a communications degree will hinge on the type of media they studied in school. A student who concentrates in visual media might work as a video producer or camera operator. One who studied journalism might work in public relations or technical writing.

Finance and Accounting

Major Description: Finance and accounting deal with the scrutiny of numbers. Finance often focuses on the longer term — like financial planning and budgeting. Accounting can involve more short-term money matters, like analyzing financial statements. Both degrees involve studying math, business, finances, and investments.

Job Opportunities: With a degree in finance or accounting, it’s only natural to pursue a role that deals with math and/or money. Accounting majors can pursue careers in accounting, bookkeeping, or auditing. Finance can lead to roles as an advisor, planner, or analyst in the finance space.

Recommended: Ca$h Course: A Student’s Guide to Money

Criminal Justice

Major Description: For those interested in the law, majoring in criminal justice might be a good fit. This major explores not only the legal system but also the psychological study of crime, sociology, and public policy.

Job Opportunities: After graduation, many criminal justice majors will pursue law school, but that’s not the only option. Graduates can also explore law enforcement or counseling.

Anthropology and Sociology

Major Description: Anthropology and sociology are inherently the study of people — the exploration of race, gender, and geography’s influence on societies, blending the study of history with modern analysis.

Job Opportunities: Graduates may work in the research field or medical anthropology. Additionally, they may find work at the federal level, where anthropologists are often required for major projects.

Computer Science

Major Description: Computer science is the study of data, engineering, and the systems surrounding computers. A major in computer science means a steady mix of math classes and software engineering or programming courses.

Job Opportunities: The Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates the need for computer science jobs to grow by 21% percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual salary for computer science jobs was $131,490 in 2021 (the most recent year they have data for). Graduates can explore software development, information technology, or network security.

English

Major Description: An English major explores everything about the written word, including genres of literature and interpretation. English majors also learn critical thinking and the ability to write, whether that be technical, creative, legal, or medical writing.

Job Opportunities: Because many jobs include a solid foundation in reading and writing, an English degree can apply across many fields. Graduates might go into teaching, writing (journalist, copywriter, author), communications, or public relations.

Economics

Major Description: Economics combines the study of people with statistics to learn how government and groups develop around resources, typically money. Students will study economic theory, the history of economics, and the math that’s behind much of the statistical monitoring.

Job Opportunities: Graduates can take a variety of roles, thanks to the analytic skills of their major. That, on top of learned communication skills, makes economics majors a good fit for roles like analysts, consultants, and actuaries.

Political Science

Major Description: Political science is the study of governing, including theory, history, and current practices. This area of study requires students to follow current events as well as analyze and research past actions.

Job Opportunities: Studying political science can lead to a job in politics, but there are other options as well. The critical thinking skills lend themselves well to PR and social media management, as well as policy work or analysis.

History

Major Description: History majors analyze the past. A core part of a liberal arts degree, studying history may be a good fit for students who want a generalist education.

Job Opportunities: History majors perfect a lot of skills that come in handy in the workplace. Strong writing, reading, and analytical skills make them a great fit for roles like analyst or consultant, or a career in politics.

Recommended: The Ultimate Guide to Liberal Arts Colleges

Kinesiology/Physical Therapy

Major Description: Kinesiology is the study of physical activity. Specifically, it’s working with people to improve their health through exercising. A degree in kinesiology involves anatomy, hands-on work, and learning to work with patients.

Job Opportunities: For many, a degree in kinesiology is the foundation for a doctorate in physical therapy, but graduates can also apply their skills to careers in training, coaching, and some forms of therapy.

Health Professions

Major Description: This major will prepare students to work in the medical field, helping patients. They can expect to take classes in anatomy, chemistry, biology, public health, and medical ethics.

Job Opportunities: Graduates can find careers as health care aides, nursing assistants, and RNs.

Art

Major Description: Studying art creates the opportunity to both learn the history of a medium and create art. Students may choose a specific form of art or study movements and mediums in general.

Job Opportunities: Grads don’t have to turn to creating art full time unless they want to. They can work as art educators, in museums and art preservation, or try their hand in the work of gallery curation.

Math

Major Description: Students majoring in math will explore all math disciplines, in addition to theoretical and historical context around the subject.

Job Opportunities: A math degree is helpful in any career that deals with interpreting numbers daily: actuary, data scientist, teacher, or software developer.

Environmental Science

Major Description: Studying environmental science can be a great fit for generalists who want to explore many subjects around our surroundings and the science involved. They’ll study chemistry, biology, physics, and geography, among other subjects.

Job Opportunities: Graduates can pursue careers in research in fields including horticulture, oceanography, microbiology, and ecology.


💡 Quick Tip: Would-be borrowers will want to understand the different types of student loans that are available: private student loans, federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans, Direct PLUS loans, and more.

Paying for College

Another major decision in the college process? Finding a way to pay for school.

Whatever you decide to major in (and whichever school you end up going to), a great first step to figure out college funding is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This will let you know if you are eligible for any federal aid, which may include grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans.

To fill in any gaps in funding, you may also want to explore private student loans. These are available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates and terms vary by lender but borrowers (or cosigners) with excellent credit typically qualify for the lowest rates.

Just keep in mind that private student loans may not offer borrower protections, such as deferment and income-driven repayment plans, that come with federal student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

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SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. SoFi Bank, N.A. and its lending products are not endorsed by or directly affiliated with any college or university unless otherwise disclosed.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Checking Your Rates: To check the rates and terms you may qualify for, SoFi conducts a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. However, if you choose a product and continue your application, we will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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Finally, a summer full of goodbyes, shopping for dorm room essentials, and anticipation is coming to an end. College orientation is an exciting initiation into freshman year and an opportunity to learn about extracurricular activities, make friends, and get acclimated to your new surroundings.

While it may span just a few days or a week in total, college orientation is packed with information and experiences that can set you up for success over the next four years.

Planning ahead and diving into the details of the orientation schedule is just one of many ways to prepare for college. Although every school operates differently, here are some key college orientation tips and things to expect when you arrive on campus.

When Does Orientation Take Place?

Some college orientations happen in the middle of summer, while others take place right before the beginning of the semester. The earlier variety is typically conducted in smaller groups and may be organized separately for specific programs or majors.

Midsummer orientations often give students the opportunity to stay in the dorms ahead of moving to campus. This can be a useful test run to get acquainted with the dorm life and mingle with fellow incoming students.


💡 Quick Tip: When shopping for a private student loan lender, look for benefits that help lower your monthly payment.

What Is an Orientation Schedule Like?

Once the college orientation schedule is available, look out for which parts are mandatory, such as taking a student ID photo and registering for classes, and any optional social, extracurricular, and informational activities that sound interesting or helpful.

College orientation is a time to make friends and get acquainted with college life, but knowing where the dining hall, laundry room, student transportation, and other services are located also comes in handy.

Having a game plan for the orientation schedule will give you an opportunity to invite new acquaintances to attend an event or activity together. At the same time, allowing yourself to go with the flow a bit might alleviate some of the stress.

Compared to a strictly regulated high school schedule, college students are given much more discretion in making decisions for themselves. While this newfound freedom can be liberating, it can present challenges for balancing academic responsibilities with the fun, social aspects of college.

Orientation is a chance to get acclimated before the pressure of staying on top of schoolwork arises.

Recommended: 10 Ways to Prepare for College

What Happens at Orientation?

The full scope of college orientation will vary by institution. However, there will likely be a mix of instructional and social activities to round out each day. Some topics that are typically covered include:

•   School rules, policies, and code of conduct

•   Meetings with an academic or department advisor

•   Guided tour of campus

•   Skits and role-play activities

•   Ice breakers with a residential advisor and dorm floormates

While some sessions may feel tedious, making a good first impression on a residential advisor, professor, and peers can be invaluable.

Learning About Extracurricular Activities and Campus Life

College orientation usually includes a range of informational and fun activities to introduce students to campus activities. Many student clubs and organizations have tables at orientation or early in the semester to meet and attract incoming students.

Depending on school size and culture, the number of offerings and niches can be vast compared to high school, including intramural sports, Greek life, theater troupes, and culture clubs.

Learning the Lay of the Land

After the guided tour, you may want to spend some time going over (and memorizing) how to get to the dining hall, student center, and your classrooms — this can save you lots of time and potential embarrassment from being late on the first day of classes. Classrooms may be organized by department in different buildings across campus.

During college orientation, you may also be able to join group outings to explore your college town or sign up for guided shopping trips to pick up groceries, cleaning supplies, and other dorm essentials.

Moving Into the Dorms

At colleges that hold orientation directly before the beginning of the semester, you may be able to sign up in advance for a block of time to park and transport your belongings into your dorm room.

With many students and families arriving on the same day, the scene can be a bit of a frenzy. Keep an eye out for registration emails prior to orientation to snag a good move-in time.

Mid to late morning is often a safe bet to get ahead of the crowds and summer heat. Also, packing efficiently can save time and stress on move-in day.

Beyond studying and sleeping, dorms are a social hive for freshmen students. A helpful college orientation tip: Setting up a welcoming, furnished dorm room is a great way to prepare for movie nights and parties with newfound friends.

Recommended: College Freshman Checklist for the Upcoming School Year

Downtime for Socializing

The orientation schedule tends to wind down in the afternoon and early evening, allowing students plenty of time to hang out and get to know each other. Keeping that in mind may help you resist the urge to skip important orientation sessions to meet up with new roommates and friends.

What About Parents and Family?

While starting college is an exciting time, it can also feel bittersweet for students, parents, and other family members. To honor the occasion, many colleges incorporate group activities, lunches, and festivities for students and families to partake in together during the first day or two of orientation.

Before saying goodbyes, parents and family members may be able to join a separate orientation to prepare them for the transition. Usually, these sessions are intended to provide guidance to support students and offer insight into their child’s life at college.

They are also an opportunity for families to meet other families, as well as learn about resources and noteworthy events, such as family weekend and homecoming.


💡 Quick Tip: Parents and sponsors with strong credit and income may find much lower rates on no-fee private parent student loans than federal parent PLUS loans. Federal PLUS loans also come with an origination fee.

Paying for College

College orientations may also offer sessions about navigating the financial aid system. Tuition, books, and other educational costs aren’t cheap, and everyone’s financial situation is different.

Financial aid sessions may cover aid distribution dates, when tuition is due, how to pay tuition, and how to add money to student accounts for incidentals. Parents and students may want to attend this session together to ask questions that come up during the discussion.

Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to pay for higher education. In addition to saving for college ahead of time, there are several options to consider when creating a plan.

Scholarships

Scholarships are awarded to students by community organizations, private foundations, nonprofits, colleges, and other groups. The criteria for earning a scholarship varies, though many focus on academic achievement, financial need, or program of study.

According to Sallie Mae’s “How Americans Pay for College” 2023 report, approximately 61% of college students received scholarship money during the 2022-2023 academic year.

Many scholarship applications open before college starts, though there may be additional opportunities once college begins. Researching scholarships in your hometown and college is a great place to start.

Online resources, such as collegeboard.org and SoFi’s Scholarship Search Tool, keep an updated list of scholarships as well. Applying early for scholarships may be an advantage, as some large awards may have early deadlines. For instance, some scholarships stop accepting applications during the fall for distribution the next school year.

Grants

Like scholarships, grants are financial awards given to students to pay for their education — they do not have to be repaid. The main difference is that grants are usually based on need instead of academic merit. By completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you can find out what aid you are eligible for, including the federal Pell Grant Program or state-wide grant opportunities.

Work-Study

Many college students pick up a part-time job to help pay tuition and living expenses. One way to secure work is through Federal Work-Study , a program that employs qualified college and graduate students in on- or off-campus jobs. Pay varies, but participants will earn at least minimum wage.

Work-study eligibility is based on several factors, including family income and enrollment status, and is offered as part of a student’s financial aid package.

A job is not guaranteed even if work-study is awarded. Early application is key because a school’s program funds may be limited and jobs are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Student Loans

Whether or not you receive a scholarship, grant, or work-study, there are several student loan options you might want to consider applying for.

Federal student loans, which are either subsidized or unsubsidized, are offered as part of a student’s financial aid package. If you qualify for a subsidized student loan (which is based on need), interest won’t begin to accrue until six months after you graduate. With an unsubsidized federal student loan, interest begins to accrue right away (though you can defer making any payments until six months after you graduate). Interest rates on federal student loans are fixed; for the 2023-2024 academic year, the rate for a subsidized or unsubsidized federal loan is 5.50%.

Private student loans from banks, credit unions, and online lenders may help fill any remaining gaps in paying for college. These loans are not subsidized or need-based, and their interest rates may be fixed or variable.

To apply for a private student loan, you generally fill out a loan application either alone or with a cosigner. Rates vary depending on the lender but borrowers with excellent credit typically qualify for the lowest rates.

Just keep in mind that private student loans may not offer borrower protections, such as deferment and income-driven repayment plans, that come with federal student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

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SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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College can be an exciting time of growth and learning. In fact, for some, the idea of studying one field just isn’t enough. So, they go for it all and become a double major instead.

Double majoring certainly has its perks. It gives you the freedom to study more than one subject, allows you to become more well-rounded during your time in college, and could afford you the opportunity to study both a career path and a passion project at the same time.

However, deciding to become a double major is a big decision, as going after two majors could mean double the work.

Before heading down this path, here are a few things to consider about becoming a double major, including the pros and cons and who might benefit most from having two majors.

What Is a Double Major?

Though the term “double major” can vary from school to school, it typically refers to a student pursuing two different disciplines under one degree.

While in school, the student works to obtain enough credits for majors in those two disciplines. Usually, this means studying two fields based in the same school, which will earn the student the same type of degree, such as a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or Bachelor of Arts (B.A.).

Classes, including general education classes, might overlap within the two majors, making it easier to complete both courses of study throughout a student’s education.

It’s important to note there is a distinction between a double major and a dual degree.

A dual degree can mean a student is pursuing two separate degrees. This could mean going after two degrees in two different fields (for example, getting a B.A. in English and a B.S. in Finance), or it could mean studying for a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree at the same time.

Some schools may require you to apply for — and gain acceptance to — both degree programs, and you’ll likely need to finish all requirements (including general education classes) under both degrees.

Again, it’s important to check with your college or university to see how they define a “double major” or a “dual degree” to ensure you are going after the right program.


💡 Quick Tip: You can fund your education with a low-rate, no-fee private student loan that covers all school-certified costs.

How Many People Pursue a Double Major?

Many students choose to go down this path while studying at college or university.

Though the exact number can vary from school to school, it typically ranges somewhere between 10% to 25% of the enrolled student body.

Before diving in and deciding to declare a double major, here are a few pros and cons to consider.

Pros of Declaring a Double Major

Getting to Study Two Areas at Once

Going after a double major can allow you to gain a broader learning experience than others as you expand your classes and curriculum. This means you can leave school with a deep understanding of two totally different topics.

It could also allow you to study something you believe is a direct career path for you, while also exploring an area you are passionate about. And hopefully, in your future career, you can meld the two skill sets together.

Recommended: A Guide to Choosing the Right College Major

Widening Potential Job Opportunities

By studying in two different areas, you may broaden your future career path. After all, having two majors under your belt means you are skilled at more than just one thing.

But, beyond this, employers may also look favorably on candidates with double majors because it shows they have a broad interest in many topics, can handle the pressures of an increased workload, and are ready and willing to take on new, larger tasks with ease.

Staying on Track for Graduating in Four Years

Because most double majors are completed under the same school within a college or university, you can typically still graduate within the standard four-year timeframe.

That’s because you will likely only have to take one set of general education requirements rather than with a dual degree program where you may need to take two.

Completing all of the coursework on time may take some strategic planning, however. If you have questions, consider speaking with your academic advisor, who may be able to provide helpful insight.

Cons of Declaring a Double Major

More Studying

Because you may need to add on more credit hours to earn a double major, you might have to spend more time in classrooms and more time studying than your peers who are in pursuit of a single major.

This can also mean you’ll need to be highly organized and driven to go after a double major, and it might not be right for those who are not self-starters.

Less Time for Outside Interests

Because you will likely be in the classroom or library more often studying, having a double major might mean less time for outside interests and extracurricular activities.

And sure, one goes to college to study. However, it can also serve as an important developmental moment in one’s life.

Taking part in sports, clubs, or activities can help students learn and grow in different ways. It can help them connect with others and serve as a wonderful networking opportunity for future job interests.

It’s critical to weigh your options and make sure you know what you will have to give up to go after a double major.

Potential Increased Tuition

Because you may exceed baseline credit hours, you could end up paying more in tuition. Each credit hour can be costly and going after a double major could be a significant investment.

Consider mapping out your coursework to determine exactly how many credits you’ll be required to complete, and how much extra this may cost.

Weigh the potential additional cost against the value having two majors could provide before declaring.

Recommended: 11 Strategies for Paying for College and Other Expenses

When It Makes the Most Sense to Double Major

In the end, this is a highly personal decision that students must make for themselves or with the guidance of a parent or counselor.

However, it may make sense for anyone who has more than one interest, who wants to broaden the scope of their schooling, or who feels as though a second major will help their future career prospects.

For example, students studying international business may find it helpful to their careers to add a second major in a language.

If someone believes that the return on investment — both in their time and, potentially, money — will be high, then a double major may be right for them.

One Alternative to Double Majoring

There is another way for a student to broaden their horizons and go after their passions throughout their education, and that’s with a minor.

While a major is a student’s main area of study, a minor can be a secondary area of study that requires fewer credit hours to complete than a second major.

Adding a minor can help you broaden your educational scope, allow you to further study areas you are passionate about, and help you walk away with more skills upon graduation.

While a minor doesn’t carry as much weight as a major, you can still list a minor on your resume, which could potentially help you impress recruiters during your post-graduation job search.

Being Financially Prepared to Go After Any Degree You Want

Whether you decide to go after one major, two majors, two degrees, a major and a minor, or some combination of the above, it’s important to be financially prepared for what’s ahead.

Knowing that you have enough funding for college can give you the freedom to explore different academic paths and pursuits without worrying about how you’ll cover the cost.

An important first step is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This will let you know if you are eligible for any federal financial aid, which may include grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans.

To fill in any gaps in funding, some students may also consider a private student loan via a bank, credit union, or online lender. To apply for a private student loan, students generally fill out a loan application either alone or with a cosigner.

Unlike federal student loans, the amount a person qualifies for, along with what interest rate, is usually dependent on the applicant’s (or their cosigner’s) credit score and income, along with other factors.

While qualifying borrowers could secure a competitive interest rate when applying for a private student loan, it’s important to note that federal student loans offer borrower protections that private student loans may not.

These include deferment and forbearance, income-driven repayment plans, and some loan forgiveness programs. Benefits like these mean that students should generally turn to federal loan options before considering private student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

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SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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As useful as a college’s website can be, it’s not going to give you the full picture of what it would actually be like to attend that school.

Touring colleges can be a great way to get the inside scoop and access to hard-to-find information. Instead of sifting through endless pages online, you can get answers from the people who know the school best.

You might feel lost when it comes to figuring out which questions to ask on a college tour, but we’ve broken them down into some basic categories to help make it less overwhelming for you and your parents.

Campus Life

Being in college involves a lot more than just attending large lectures and pulling all-nighters at your computer. Your campus will have its own culture and social life that you’ll want to explore.

Usually, in the first few weeks of the year, there will be events where clubs, Greek communities, and student councils set up tables and try to recruit members.

Getting involved in on-campus activities, clubs, and extracurriculars can be a great way to build a network, explore your interests, and importantly, make friends. So it can be helpful to get an idea of the types of activities a school offers and how you can get involved while you’re on your college tour.

Ask if your guide knows when these events are planned and what types of organizations will be present.

Another important facet of campus life is, of course, the food. Your guide will probably show you where the various food courts and dining halls are, but it doesn’t hurt to ask about what is available and what their recommendations are. And if you have specific dietary restrictions, you may want to ask what types of accommodations dining halls can make.

Some more questions you might want to ask about campus life include:

•   When are most people on campus?

•   What time do places (e.g., library, coffee shops, restaurants, gym, etc.) close?

•   Is it easy to find parking near campus?

•   Are students generally inclusive of all types of people?

•   Do most freshmen live on campus? Is there a freshman dorm?

College is going to be your home for about four years, your experience will be impacted by the time you spend both in and out of the classrooms on campus.


💡 Quick Tip: Private student loans offer fixed or variable interest rates. So you can get a loan that fits your budget.

Classes

A large portion of your time in college will, naturally, be spent in your classes. Your tour will probably cover certain types of buildings, like the engineering building, the liberal arts buildings, etc. But if your guide doesn’t mention where classes for your major will be taking place, make sure to ask so that you are familiar with the campus layout.

If you haven’t researched how big your classes will be, this could also be a good time to ask those questions. See if your guide has information on how common large lectures are as opposed to smaller class sizes.

You may prefer a school where smaller class sizes are the norm. This can make it easier to get to know your classmates and professors. Or, you might like the excitement of being in a large lecture hall.

Registering for college courses can be a hectic experience, especially for popular classes with limited spots available. Every college has its own system and it can impact whether or not you get the courses you want.

Ask your guide what the school’s process is for class registration and if you might have issues getting desired courses within your major.

Recommended: College Visit Checklist for Parents

Sports

Another way to get involved in your school’s social scene is through sports. Your school will likely have official sports teams as well as intramural sports.

Going to the official games with friends is a fun way to show your school pride and spend time with classmates outside of studying.

Some questions you can ask your guide about sports are:

•   Where are the sports played, on-campus or off?

•   Which ones are the most popular to watch?

•   What’s the average cost for a sporting event ticket?

If there’s a sport that you’re particularly fond of watching, ask your guide about the school’s team.

If you’re athletic or want to become more athletic, joining an intramural sports team can be a fun way to get exercise and socialize at the same time.

While you’re on your tour, ask where the school gym is and where and when intramural sign-ups usually happen. Another question you might ask on your college tour is if a gym membership is included in tuition and what you get access to, as some intramural sports may have an extra sign-up cost.

Living Situations

Some of the most important questions to ask on a college tour will have to do with the available living situations. Choosing your college living situation is a huge decision.

There are usually a few options depending on how far away from home your school is. If you’re going out of state, you’ll probably have the option to live in a dorm or find somewhere to live off-campus. Some schools require out-of-state freshmen to stay on campus during their first year, so asking about this on the tour can help you understand what’s required at your school.

Since every school’s dorms will be different, here’s a list of questions worth asking while you’re on the tour:

•   How many people are assigned to a room? If it’s suite-style, how many people share common living spaces such as the kitchen and bathrooms?

•   How do they assign roommates and when do you learn who your roommate is?

•   What is the process for changing your roommate if problems occur?

If you choose to stay in the dorms, you want to make sure your college will be supportive of making sure it’s a safe and friendly environment for students.

Off-campus living may be an option for your first year, but even if it isn’t, it can still be good to ask about it on your college tour. Ask what options are available nearby and what the average cost is for rent. It can be helpful to also gauge how many upperclassmen live on-campus vs. off-campus too.

Consider asking if the school has a system for finding roommates, like an online forum, so you can meet other students and find trustworthy people to room with.

Some schools may opt to assign roommates for freshmen, so understanding what the standard protocol at the school is can be helpful.

If you’re touring schools close to home, you may have the option of living at home. If you’re considering commuting, you could ask your guide how they think commuting affects students’ ability to enjoy campus life and their ability to stay involved in events/organizations.

Work and Career Opportunities

It’s pretty well known that college isn’t cheap. Hopefully, you’ll be able to get some help paying for tuition and books with various forms of financial support, but it doesn’t hurt to see what job opportunities will be available for you on campus.

Ask your tour guide if jobs are available to students and where you can get more information.

For long term career goals, it’s important to know if your school hosts job fairs or networking events in your field. Many colleges will support students beyond just getting a degree.

During your tour, ask what events your school provides to help students start their careers post-graduation.


💡 Quick Tip: It’s a good idea to understand the pros and cons of private student loans and federal student loans before committing to them.

Financial Aid

Paying for college can be a stressful topic, but your tour guide may have a better understanding of what you’re feeling, having already gone through the process themselves. While you’re touring different schools, it’s important to ask what financial aid options are available that are unique to the school.

Wherever you end up going, the way to apply for financial aid is by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This will let you know if you are eligible for any federal aid, which may include grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans.

To fill in any gaps in funding, you may also want to explore private student loans. These are available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders. To apply for a private student loan, you generally fill out a loan application either alone or with a cosigner. Rates vary depending on the lender but borrowers with solid credit typically qualify for the lowest rates.

Just keep in mind that private student loans may not offer borrower protections, such as deferment and income-driven repayment plans, that come with federal student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

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SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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College can be one of life’s biggest investments. And, earning a degree or certificate is an important step forward down many career paths.

Many students work to cover expenses and gain on-the-job experience while furthering their education. Balancing the competing demands of coursework and a job, however, can be a challenge. For some learners, taking online classes while working is one way to fit school into an already packed schedule.

Online classes allow you to study virtually anywhere, not just colleges or trade schools located in your area. In addition, pre-recorded classes enable you to fit your coursework into evenings, weekends, or whenever your work schedule allows.

However, the quality of online programs can vary widely. And, getting a degree online may not allow you to make as many professional and personal connections as an in-person college experience.

Read on to learn more about taking online classes while also working full-time, including the pros and cons, and strategies for juggling the demands of schooling alongside holding down a job.

Pros of Taking Online Classes

Given the time and financial investment that earning a degree can require, it can be helpful to weigh different schooling options before deciding whether to pursue an in-person education, online classes, or some hybrid of the two. Online classes can have some distinct advantages.

Here’s a look at some potential pros of working towards a degree or certificate online.

Having a Flexible Schedule

Traditionally, college and graduate school courses meet once or multiple times per week throughout a semester or summer/winter session. The length of class time varies too. For example, large lectures may only span one hour, while once-per-week seminars could run for two or three hours.

If you’re taking a full-time course load, which usually constitutes a minimum of twelve credit hours, you’ll have to coordinate these blocked-out class hours around your existing work schedule.

As a result, in-person learning (where students are expected to be in class at a set time each week) is not always feasible if you plan to work and study at the same time.

If you work full-time, online classes can come with added flexibility. After all, online courses are often facilitated through pre-recorded lectures, streaming video tutorials, self-guided activities, and reading that can be done on a student’s timeframe.

In some cases, online classes do still include a certain number of live lectures or learning activities (typically hosted via streaming video) that enrolled students are expected to attend.

In those scenarios, you might need to arrange your work schedule so you’re not on the job during the times when live online classes convene.

Naturely, most online classes still assign homework, so you’ll also need to consider when you’ll fit in independent reading, projects, and studying. However, online degree programs and classes often offer a higher level of scheduling flexibility, allowing you to “attend class” and study at times when you’re not working.

Maintaining Location Independence

There are thousands of colleges and universities across the United States, but probably only a handful near your home or place of work. While taking classes as a commuter student might be logistically possible, sticking to programs hosted by local universities can limit your choice of faculty and subject areas.

Additionally, it’s possible that local options aren’t the top-ranked in a given field — and might not even offer specific degrees or pre-professional certificates.

On the flip side, the only location required for taking online classes while working full-time is a reliable internet connection and a comfortable study space. Online classes also save time traveling to and fro a campus, giving you more time to juggle post-secondary studies alongside your regular job.

Possibly Lower Living Expenses

Tuition is only part of the equation when calculating the total cost of attending college. Some universities may require students to live on campus for one or more years, which could carry dining hall and other fees (in addition to the base cost of living in a dorm).

Students attending four-year public universities can expect room and board to run, on average, $11,520 a year, according to the Education Data Initiative. Opting for an online degree program can help bypass some of these additional expenses.


💡 Quick Tip: Private student loans offer fixed or variable interest rates. So you can get a loan that fits your budget.

Cons of Taking Online Classes

In addition to online learning’s merits, there are some potential cons to think through when evaluating taking online classes while working full time.

Not Every Degree or Major is Available

Colleges across the U.S. offer a wide array of majors and types of degrees. Online programs, on the other hand, tend to be more limited. So whether or not you can take online classes while working will depend, in part, on your chosen field of study.

For online bachelor’s degree programs, majors focused on business and health professions are among the most commonly available. Students interested in earning a master’s degree online in business or healthcare are in luck as well. There are also opportunities to enroll in graduate programs in education, engineering, criminal justice, and various social sciences entirely online.

Other majors and degrees, especially those that require in-person lab time or hands-on apprenticeship, such as culinary arts or chemistry, might not translate as well to an online format.

Recommended: Return on Education for Bachelor’s Degrees

Limited Networking Opportunities

Attending college in person can provide opportunities to make friends and build relationships with professors. Building a deep social and professional network while in school can help you find internships and jobs after school ends.

Taking online classes, however, can make it more challenging to connect with professors and fellow students. That being said, it’s still possible to make a strong impression on professors and peers through course assignments, presentations (whether individual or group), and written correspondences.

If you are planning on taking online classes while also working full-time in the same field (e.g., a nurse or a teacher studying for an extra certification in those professions), this potential networking disadvantage may be less of a concern — since you can still connect with fellow professionals on the job.

Strategies for Taking Online Classes

Whether you just graduated high school or are returning to the classroom after years of working, being prepared can help you get the most from your online classes — and, ideally, help to create a healthier work-life balance. Here are some key ways to prep for working full time and going to college.

Making a Schedule and Sticking to It

The flexibility of online classes can feel liberating, but those readings, online discussions, and assignments still need to be completed. Keeping your work schedule in mind, it can be helpful to block out some non-work hours during the week or weekend just for studying and school assignments.

It may also be helpful to think about when to get school work done. If you’re not a morning person, it’s likely you won’t be cracking the textbooks at sunrise. If you find out that your present work-school schedule is hard to sustain over time, it’s perfectly okay to go back to the drawing board.

The important thing is to find a time-management system that works for the duration of the time you’re both working and studying full time.

Starting Small

Even if you feel confident and excited about returning to the classroom (virtual ones count, too), taking online classes while working full time may be a big adjustment.

Some online degree programs allow you to enroll as a part-time student, which can be a “trial-run” opportunity — allowing you to understand how demanding juggling school and studies can be (before paying full tuition).

Understanding how much time each online class will demand can help you to be realistic about how many classes you can take each semester without burning out.

Setting Goals and Rewarding Progress

Creating achievable goals at the beginning of each class or semester is one way to stay on track, grow as a student, and measure success. Attaching a reward to these periodic goals can help many learners to stay driven and engaged.

Whether you passed your first online class, completed a big group project, or got a key certification, you deserve to celebrate achieving your educational accomplishments.


💡 Quick Tip: Would-be borrowers will want to understand the different types of student loans that are available: private student loans, federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans, Direct PLUS loans, and more.

Paying for Online Classes

For some students, the cost of online education (after subtracting dorms, dining plans, and transportation) can be an additional determining factor. The individual cost of online degrees and certificates will vary significantly from school to school — including price differences between public and private university programs.

In some cases, online-only programs may cost less for enrolled students. In others, online classes are priced similar to their in-person counterparts.

Whether you opt to work and go to college at the same time, how to pay for college is likely a big question. Making a plan for financing your education is one step in figuring out how to take online classes while working full time.

Completing the Federal Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can help you determine how much federal student aid (such as grants, scholarships, and federal loans) you are eligible to receive. You can also explore scholarship opportunities through universities, nonprofit organizations, and private foundations for additional funding.

Many students also borrow money through private loans to pay for advancing their education. These are available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders and often may come with flexible repayment plans, allowing you to find a loan that fits your budget and financial plan. (It’s worth noting that federal student loans come with baked-in benefits, like income-driven repayment or public service loan forgiveness, that are not guaranteed by private lenders).

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

---

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SOIS0823006

Read more