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Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
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UCLA
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Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

Seeking the Most Competitive Degrees

Hey guys, I'm in my junior year and the pressure to choose a major is really starting to hit. Out of all the possible fields of study, which degree would you say is the most competitive to earn? I guess I want to challenge myself, but I want to understand what I'm going into. Thanks!

a year ago

Choosing a major is an important decision indeed, reflecting both on your interests and professional aspirations. To address your question, the competitiveness of a degree largely depends on the university. Some fields of study, such as Computer Science, Engineering, Business, and Pre-Med are typically considered highly competitive due to the broad applicability and high demand for these skills in the job market.

Let's take engineering as an example. Within the realm of engineering, degrees like Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering can be particularly rigorous due to the intensive coursework and demand for precision and attention to detail.

Alternatively, pre-med is often viewed as competitive because of the rigorous course load, the necessity for high grades (particularly for those considering medical school), and the challenge of balancing extracurriculars such as shadowing and volunteering in healthcare settings.

However, competitiveness should not be viewed in isolation. Consider whether the degree aligns with your interests and long-term goals. A challenging degree can bring personal and professional growth, but your academic journey will undoubtedly be more enjoyable and fulfilling if you're passionate about what you're studying.

Keep researching, consider your strengths and what field you are passionate about, and I'm confident you'll make an excellent decision.

a year ago

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CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.