Top Majors at Stanford University

Fernanda Munoz
Essay editor
Last updated,
June 16, 2023

Are you considering applying to Stanford University for your undergraduate degree? Stanford is a prestigious institution known for its academic excellence and innovation. In this blog post, we will discuss the top six undergraduate majors at Stanford, including their competitiveness, requirements, and tuition costs.

Overview of Stanford Admissions

Stanford University is highly selective, with an acceptance rate of just 4.3%. The university receives over 47,000 applications each year, making it one of the most competitive schools in the country. To be considered for admission, you must have a strong academic record, impressive extracurricular activities, and compelling essays. Additionally, you must submit standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and a list of your achievements and honors.

The majors discussed in this blog post are particularly competitive because they are some of the most popular majors at Stanford. These majors attract high-performing students from all over the world, making them highly selective. The GPA required for all of the, is 3.5 or higher and the tuition cost is estimated at $56,169 per year, but financial aid is available for students who qualify.

1. Computer Science

Computer Science is the most popular major at Stanford, attracting top students from all over the world. The major covers a variety of topics, including programming, algorithms, data structures, and computer systems. Graduates of the program go on to work in a variety of fields, including software engineering, data science, and artificial intelligence.

To major in Computer Science, students must complete a set of prerequisite courses, including calculus, linear algebra, and computer programming.

2. Biology

Biology is another popular major at Stanford, attracting students who are interested in the life sciences. The major covers topics such as genetics, ecology, and evolution. Graduates of the program go on to work in a variety of fields, including medicine, biotechnology, and research.

To major in Biology, students must complete a set of prerequisite courses, including biology, chemistry, and math.

3. Engineering

Stanford offers a variety of engineering majors, including Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Chemical Engineering. These majors attract students who are interested in designing and building new technologies. Graduates of the program go on to work in a variety of fields, including aerospace, energy, and robotics.

To major in Engineering, students must complete a set of prerequisite courses, including physics, calculus, and chemistry.

4. Economics

Economics is a popular major at Stanford, attracting students who are interested in understanding how markets work. The major covers topics such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics. Graduates of the program go on to work in a variety of fields, including finance, consulting, and public policy.

To major in Economics, students must complete a set of prerequisite courses, including calculus, statistics, and economics.

5. Psychology

Psychology is a popular major at Stanford, attracting students who are interested in understanding human behavior and mental processes. The major covers topics such as social psychology, cognitive psychology, and developmental psychology. Graduates of the program go on to work in a variety of fields, including counseling, education, and research.

To major in Psychology, students must complete a set of prerequisite courses, including psychology, statistics, and research methods.

6. Political Science

Political Science is a popular major at Stanford, attracting students who are interested in understanding how governments work. The major covers topics such as American politics, comparative politics, and international relations. Graduates of the program go on to work in a variety of fields, including law, government, and journalism.

To major in Political Science, students must complete a set of prerequisite courses, including political science, statistics, and research methods.

Feeling a bit overwhelmed by the competitiveness of college admissions? Not to worry, AdmissionsPrep is here to help you break down each requirement into achievable steps. Make sure to take this quiz to see how we can help you plan for admission season!

Fernanda Munoz
Essay editor
Last updated,
June 16, 2023

Maximize Your Admission Odds

Take our quiz and receive exclusive insights in our weekly newsletter on the latest in academic planning, higher education, and resources to help you supercharge your college chances.
If eligible, you'll also be invited to book a complimentary consultation to create a plan and get into your dream institution.
Get Started

Related Articles