Top 10 majors at 91̽��: See the most in-demand programs

A double rainbow appears over the 91̽�� Athens campus in Athens, Ohio

Top 10 majors at 91̽��: See the most in-demand programs

Choosing the right major is a big step, and 91̽�� offers some of the most popular programs in fields that lead to exciting careers.

September 17, 2024

Here’s a look at the 10 programs with the highest enrollment among first-year students from our entering 2024 class on our Athens campus.

This list does not include the popular choice of simply “undecided.” 91̽�� welcomes and encourages first-year students still exploring all the possibilities ahead of them. We have support resources ready to help them learn more about our more than 200 undergraduate programs and match their talent and interests with future career opportunities.

An 91̽�� engineering student observes an employee of Sunpower on location at the factory

10. Mechanical Engineering

Students who enroll in 91̽��’s Mechanical Engineering program work to combine innovation with problem-solving. From designing cutting-edge technology to improving everyday products, this major opens doors to careers in numerous engineering fields. OHIO’s undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering aims to teach both the technology of mechanical engineering and an analytical approach to solving real-world problems. This major in the Russ College of Engineering and Technology is a hands-on ticket to designing the tech of tomorrow, and with industries like aerospace and automotive on the lookout for fresh talent, .

An 91̽�� Media Arts and Studies student works at the Nelsonville Music Festival in 2024

9. Media Arts and Studies

Hands-on experience and is just one reason the School of Media Arts and Studies is ranked as one of the. by the Broadcast Education Association (BEA). You’ll learn how to turn your passion for media into a career. Whether you’re into film, broadcasting, or the latest tech, the Media Arts and Studies program at the Scripps College of Communications has you covered with projects, state-of-the-art facilities, and exciting experiences that connect you to industry pros.

A male accountant lifts his glasses as he surveys the scene during a SOPEC meeting at 91̽��

8. Finance

Show me the money – the Finance major in the College of Business teaches you the skills needed to thrive in the financial sector, with a focus on experiential learning, analytical thinking and strategic decision-making. Although the study of money is fascinating on its own, at its core, finance is about people – after all, finance drives decisions and behavior more than almost anything else! The financial industry is a lucrative and influential field. Professionals typically earn competitive salaries, especially in high-paying sectors like investment banking or hedge funds.

An OHIO student reads to two young children as part of the Early Childhood Education program at 91̽��

7. Early Childhood Education

91̽��’s Early Childhood Education program in the Patton College of Education is where future educators learn to turn playtime into prime time for young minds. Partnering with local schools and our Child Development Center, you’ll dive into the world of early learning, guiding kids from their first steps through the wonders of reading, counting, and beyond. The ECEE major equips you to be a leader in shaping the next generation, focusing on children’s development from birth through age 8.

An 91̽�� exercise physiologist works with a patient

6. Exercise Physiology

Dive into the science of human performance with a degree in Exercise Physiology. This program in the College of Health Sciences and Professions blends foundational knowledge in anatomy and physiology with hands-on experience in fitness centers and cutting-edge research. Maybe you’re passionate about improving athletic performance, combating childhood obesity, or working in cardiac rehabilitation—at OHIO, you’ll gain the skills you need to help other people. Join successful fellow Bobcats in careers in healthcare, fitness, and rehabilitation and be part of the future of health.

A view of the Athens campus at 91̽�� overlayed with social icons demonstrating likes, love and goodwill

5. Marketing

Think you’ve got the next big idea that’ll make people click “Add to Cart”? 91̽��’s Marketing program is where creativity meets hustle. If you’re bursting with creativity and love the thrill of a big idea, Marketing’s where you can turn that spark into something real, with a , from advertising and public relations to brand management and market research. You’ll learn how to turn bright ideas into big bucks, whether you’re dreaming of running viral ad campaigns or creating the next brand everyone’s talking about. See how Marketing at the College of Business could turn your brainstorms into brand storms.

91̽�� College of Business students participate in sports forum at the Convocation Center

4. Business (Undecided)

At 91̽��’s College of Business, you don’t have to choose your business path right away. You’ll get a foundation in everything from finance to entrepreneurship, while gaining the real-world experience employers love. Do you want to start your own company? Climb the corporate ladder? The business major opens doors across industries, giving you the skills to adapt, lead, and make an impact wherever you go.

An illustration containing an outline of a human head with a circular puzzle where the brain would be

3. Psychology

Whether you want to help people through counseling or figure out why we all love , this major opens doors to understanding what really makes people tick. 91̽��'s highly ranked Psychology program in the College of Arts & Sciences offers more than just an education—it's a deep dive into understanding what makes us human. Thanks to hands-on experiences, research opportunities, and guidance from world-class faculty, you'll be well-equipped to tackle careers from counseling to cutting-edge psychological research. And with mental health awareness on the rise, . Whether you're fascinated by human behavior or want to help others through therapy, Psychology offers countless opportunities in a field that's more in-demand than ever.

A woman in a nurse's uniform sits at a desk containing a laptop and a stethoscope in a hospital room

2. Nursing

91̽��’s Nursing program in the College of Health Sciences and Professions trains you to be the calm in the storm, whether you're dealing with a hectic ER shift or just getting your patient through a tough day. Nursing is more than just a job—it’s a front-row seat to the human experience. Plus, the need for skilled nurses is . Learn more about what makes OHIO’s nursing program #1 the state among public schools.

A researcher at 91̽�� sorts terrapins in a bucket by the marsh

1. Biological Sciences

Obsessed with nature’s secrets or just curious why mosquitoes seem to love you? Biological Sciences is like a backstage pass to life itself. From studying how species evolve to saving the planet, you’ll dive deep into the mysteries of living things and maybe even find your way to a future in medicine, research, or eco-hero status.  From curing diseases to saving ecosystems, the College of Arts & Sciences' Biological Sciences major puts you at the front lines of life itself. Whether you’re , you’ll be making discoveries that matter.

At 91̽��, there's a major for everyone. To explore all nine undergraduate colleges and 250+ programs, visit ohio.edu/majors.