It’s not uncommon to have interests in multiple fields, making it difficult to choose the right college degree. Whether you have a passion for both business and art or science and technology, it can be challenging to narrow down your options. Here’s how to choose a college degree when you’re interested in multiple fields.
1. Identify Overlapping Skills and Interests
When you’re torn between multiple fields, start by identifying the skills and interests that overlap between them. For example, if you’re interested in both business and marketing, you’ll find that both fields require strong communication, creativity, and analytical skills. If you’re drawn to both technology and design, you might explore fields like user experience (UX) design or graphic design for digital platforms, where creativity and technical skills come together.
Finding areas where your interests intersect can help you narrow down your options and choose a degree that encompasses multiple passions.
2. Explore Interdisciplinary Programs
Many universities offer interdisciplinary or double-major programs that allow you to combine two fields of study. These programs enable you to pursue multiple areas of interest while earning a single degree. For example, you might pursue a degree in environmental science while also studying economics, combining both your interest in the environment and your passion for business.
Interdisciplinary programs can provide a unique educational experience, allowing you to explore diverse topics and gain expertise in more than one area. This approach will also give you the flexibility to explore different career paths upon graduation.
3. Consider a Minor or Electives
If you’re passionate about two fields but don’t want to commit to a double major or interdisciplinary program, consider pursuing a major in one area while taking a minor or electives in another. Many universities allow students to take minors or electives in fields outside of their major, giving you the opportunity to explore a second area of interest without the commitment of a full degree program.
For example, if you’re majoring in computer science, you might consider a minor in psychology or business, enabling you to incorporate elements of those fields into your future career.
4. Research Career Paths that Combine Your Interests
Some career paths combine multiple areas of interest. For example, if you’re interested in both technology and healthcare, a career in health informatics could be a great fit. If you’re passionate about both law and business, a career in corporate law might be ideal.
Take the time to research careers that combine different fields. You may find that there are niche professions or emerging industries that allow you to pursue multiple interests simultaneously.
5. Talk to Professionals in the Field
Talking to professionals who work in the fields you’re interested in can provide valuable insight into how to combine those interests into one career. Many people end up in careers that combine multiple passions, and speaking with them can give you an idea of how they navigated their path.
Conduct informational interviews with professionals, attend career fairs, or network with alumni to learn about how different fields can intersect in the workforce. These conversations can help you identify possible career paths that align with your diverse interests.
6. Stay Open to Evolving Interests
Your interests may evolve over time, and that’s okay. It’s important to stay flexible and open-minded as you explore different fields. If you start your college education in one area but later develop an interest in another field, many degrees offer the flexibility to switch tracks or pursue additional studies without starting over completely.
Look for degree programs that allow you to explore multiple areas or pivot to another field if needed. The key is to choose a degree program that gives you room to grow and adapt as your interests change.
7. Take Time to Explore Different Fields
If you’re unsure about which field to choose, take time during your first year of college to explore different subjects. Many colleges offer introductory courses in various disciplines that allow you to sample different fields of study before committing to a major.
Taking a range of courses in your first year will help you better understand the content and career prospects associated with each field, giving you a clearer idea of which degree path is the best fit for you.