Top 10 majors at Ohio University: See the most in-demand programs

Here’s a look at the 10 programs with the highest enrollment among first-year students from the entering 2023 class on our Athens campus.

This list does not include the popular choice of simply “undecided.” Ohio University welcomes and encourages first-year students who are still exploring all of 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.

10.  Early Childhood Education

Ohio University’s Early Childhood Education program 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. Shaping young minds from day one? That’s a big deal . Future educators in this program love the chance to be a child’s first teacher and guide them through the all-important early years. The ECEE major in the Patton College of Education equips you to be a leader in shaping the next generation, focusing on children’s development from birth through age 8. 

9. Accounting

If numbers are your thing, Accounting offers  a clear road to a successful career . Ohio University’s program in the College of Business emphasizes financial reporting, auditing, and tax preparation, all crucial for careers in accounting firms, corporations, or government agencies. The overwhelming majority of our 2022 accounting graduates went on to employment or continuing education within six months after graduating. Many even accepted offers during their senior year. Plus, Accounting is a stable and secure career path , offering consistent job opportunities and a good salary.

8. Mechanical Engineering

Students who enroll in Ohio University’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, the future looks bright .

7.  Criminal Justice

OHIO’s criminal justice degree is designed exclusively for those who have already started their studies in related areas like  law enforcement ,  human services , corrections technology, or police administration, and is designed to be completed in two years. This major in University College combines practical and theoretical aspects of the field and features courses from social and behavioral sciences, humanities, natural sciences, and more. If you’re passionate about making a difference and keeping communities safe , Criminal Justice is the major for you.

6.  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.

5.  Communication Studies

Got a knack for making people laugh, cry, or think? Communication Studies is your backstage pass to the world of human interaction. Effective communication is a valuable skill in all aspects of life. Communication Studies is one of the most versatile majors out there, unlocking doors in just about any industry. From decoding memes to mastering the art of persuasion, you’ll be ready to lead the charge in media, PR, or wherever words have power. Check out how Communication Studies in the Scripps College of Communication could be your  megaphone to the world .

4.  Marketing

Think you’ve got the next big idea that’ll make people click “Add to Cart”? Ohio University’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 wide range of career opportunities , 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.

3.  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 researching a cure or protecting the planet , you’ll be making discoveries that matter.

2.  Psychology

Whether you want to help people through counseling or figure out why we all love cat videos , this major opens doors to understanding what really makes people tick. Ohio University'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, the demand for psychologists is skyrocketing . 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.

1.  Nursing

Ohio University’s Nursing program 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 difficult moment. It’s more than just a job—it’s a front-row seat to the human experience. In healthcare, there’s always a need for skilled nurses , and this College of Health Sciences and Professions program prepares you for anything—from a fast-paced ER to helping patients on their toughest days. Ready to answer the call? Learn more about what makes OHIO’s nursing program  #1 the state among public schools . 

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