Ideal Majors for Career in Management Consulting

Hi! Has anyone advice on which college majors are considered best for going into management consulting later on? I'm keen on getting some insight so I can make a good choice. Thanks a ton!

Sure, happy to help and it's great to see you planning ahead. While management consulting firms hire graduates from a variety of majors, there are a few that commonly serve as a good foundation for a future in consulting because of the skills they provide. Here are a few to consider:

1. Business Administration/Economics: Probably the most straight-forward choice, these majors teach the fundamentals of business strategy, economics, and financial analysis - all crucial skills in consulting. They also often give students exposure to case studies and project-based learning, mirroring some of the work done in consulting.

2. Engineering: This might seem a bit surprising, but many consultants are from engineering backgrounds. The problem-solving ability, the analytical thinking, and the project management skills that you gain from an engineering degree can be incredibly valuable when you're working to solve complex business problems.

3. Psychology/Sociology: Management consulting isn't just about crunching numbers, it's also about understanding people, their motivations, and how they work in groups. Those soft skills are often developed through studying the social sciences.

4. Mathematics/Statistics: Similarly, the analytical and problem-solving skills learned in these fields can be a huge advantage in consulting.

5. Computer Science: With the rise of digital consulting and the emphasis on big data, candidates who can code or understand complex computer systems are increasingly in demand.

The key is to pick a major that gives you a foundation in critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication. But remember, it's not all about your major - consulting firms also value a well-rounded candidate. This can be demonstrated through extracurricular leadership, participation in case competitions, and internships in the field. Your performance on admission tests like the GMAT or GRE also matters, as does your school's reputation in certain cases. Good luck with your decision!