Top 20 Majors at Columbia University 2025

Introduction

Located in New York City, Columbia University is home to some of the most sought-after majors in the country. From engineering and data science to creative writing and social sciences, the majors at Columbia University provide strong academic foundations and real-world opportunities.

Best Majors at Columbia University, New York

Columbia University in New York City is one of the most prestigious Ivy League institutions, offering a diverse range of academic programs across its renowned undergraduate and graduate schools. These include Columbia College, The Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science, and the School of General Studies. Columbia is also home to top-ranked professional and graduate schools, such as its Business School, Law School, Teachers College, College of Physicians and Surgeons, and the highly regarded Graduate School of Journalism.

With exceptional academic resources, expert faculty, and strong industry connections, Columbia attracts students from around the world who are looking to build successful careers. In this blog, we’ll explore the most sought-after majors at Columbia University, highlighting the programs that shape its reputation for academic excellence and innovation.

Check out: Columbia University | Top 40 FAQs answered!

Highest Paying Majors at Columbia University

Computer Science and Engineering 

• Average starting salary: $95,000-$110,000
• Strong placement in tech companies and startups
• High demand in Silicon Valley and NYC tech scene

Financial Engineering/Operations Research 

• Average starting salary: $90,000-$105,000
• Popular pathway to quantitative trading and fintech
• Strong connections to Wall Street firms

Electrical Engineering

• Average starting salary: $85,000-$100,000
• Opportunities in tech, telecommunications, and energy sectors
• High demand for hardware and embedded systems expertise

Chemical Engineering 

• Average starting salary: $80,000-$95,000
• Roles in pharmaceuticals, energy, and manufacturing
• Intense research and development opportunities

Economics/Mathematics 

• Average starting salary: $75,000-$90,000
• Common path to investment banking and consulting
• Strong analytical skills valued across industries

Industrial Engineering 

• Average starting salary: $75,000-$90,000
• Roles in logistics, supply chain, and operations
• Growing demand in e-commerce and manufacturing

Biomedical Engineering 

• Average starting salary: $70,000-$85,000
• Opportunities in medical devices and healthcare tech
• Intense research and development potential

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Why Choose Columbia University?

Columbia University stands tall as one of the most prestigious Ivy League institutions in the world. With a rich history and a strong reputation for academic excellence, studying at Columbia comes with countless benefits:

Historic Legacy

Founded in 1754 as King’s College, Columbia has evolved over 267 years into a world-class university. From just 5 students in its first graduating class, it now boasts a vibrant alumni network of over 50,000 undergraduates.

Famous Campus

Columbia’s iconic 36-acre campus in New York City is more than just academic—it’s cinematic! 309 Havemeyer Hall is one of the most filmed college classrooms ever, featured in movies like all three Spider-Man films.

Innovation Hub

Columbia has played a key role in major scientific breakthroughs. It was central to the Manhattan Project during WWII, leading to the development of the atomic bomb. The FM radio and neon laser are also among Columbia-born inventions. Today, Columbia researchers hold over 1,000 patents!

Elite and Exclusive

Columbia’s acceptance rate is just 4.2%, making it one of the most selective universities in the U.S. Getting in is tough, but the world-class education and global network are worth it.

Global Career Opportunities

With its strategic location in NYC and strong industry connections, Columbia offers access to top internships, research, and job placements in sectors like finance, tech, media, and healthcare, giving students a real-world edge.

Read more: Columbia University | Acceptance Rate and more

Top 20 Most Popular Majors at Columbia University

Columbia University, a prestigious Ivy League institution located in New York City, offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs that attract high-achieving students from across the globe. Known for its rigorous academics, renowned faculty, and strategic location, Columbia prepares students for leadership in various fields. Below are 20 of the most popular and impactful majors at Columbia University in 2025:

Social Sciences

This field remains one of the most competitive and respected at Columbia. It includes disciplines like sociology, political science, anthropology, and international relations. These majors equip students with critical thinking, research, and policy analysis skills—perfect for careers in government, law, and diplomacy.

Engineering

Columbia’s Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science is one of the oldest and most esteemed in the U.S., offering programs in biomedical, mechanical, civil, and electrical engineering. Students benefit from advanced laboratories, interdisciplinary projects, and partnerships with leading industries.

Computer Science & Information Science

Located near NYC’s tech and business hubs, Columbia’s CS programs cover AI, cybersecurity, software engineering, and data structures. The university’s strong industry connections give students access to internships at Google, Meta, Amazon, and top startups.

Psychology

Columbia’s psychology program, offered in collaboration with Barnard College, is highly selective and research-driven. It covers cognitive neuroscience, behavioral science, and developmental psychology. Students often conduct hands-on research in university-affiliated labs.

Biological & Biomedical Sciences

This major is a common choice for pre-med students and aspiring researchers. Courses include molecular biology, genetics, immunology, and neuroscience. Columbia’s partnerships with hospitals and research institutes offer significant hands-on learning opportunities.

Creative Writing

Offered through Columbia’s renowned School of the Arts, this major focuses on fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and screenwriting. Students learn from Pulitzer Prize-winning authors and participate in workshops that refine their craft.

Film & Media Studies

Columbia’s film program is internationally acclaimed. It blends film theory with production experience. Students work on real projects and gain access to NYC’s media industry through internships and collaborations.

History

Columbia offers a wide selection of historical fields, including American, European, Asian, and Middle Eastern history. Students develop research, analytical, and critical writing skills—ideal for careers in education, law, journalism, or public service.

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Pharmacology

This graduate-level program at Columbia’s Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons focuses on drug development, molecular medicine, and pharmaceutical research. It is one of the top-ranked pharmacology programs in the nation.

Mathematics & Statistics

Columbia’s math and stats majors are rigorous and research-oriented, offering specializations in data science, pure math, and financial mathematics. Graduates frequently pursue careers in finance, technology, and academia.

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Political Science

Columbia’s Political Science major provides a deep dive into governance, international relations, comparative politics, and political theory. Students engage in research on global diplomacy, conflict resolution, and policy development. 

Economics

The Economics major at Columbia is one of the most rigorous and analytical programs in the country. Students explore economic models, game theory, behavioral economics, and macroeconomic policy. Specialized tracks such as Financial Economics and Political Economy allow for targeted career preparation. 

Architecture

Offered through Columbia’s Graduate School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation (GSAPP), this program emphasizes innovation in sustainable design, architectural theory, and urban development. Students participate in design studios and research labs, working on real-world projects. 

Neuroscience and Behavior

This interdisciplinary major bridges biology, psychology, and chemistry to understand how the brain controls behavior. Students study neuroanatomy, cognitive neuroscience, and psychiatric disorders. With access to Columbia’s medical research facilities and hospital networks, students gain early exposure to cutting-edge research and clinical applications, ideal for pre-med or PhD pathways.

Environmental Science & Sustainability

Students in this major examine the science of ecosystems, climate systems, and human-environment interactions. Columbia’s Earth Institute offers hands-on learning through research in climate modeling, sustainability policy, and environmental justice. 

Read More: Guide to Columbia University’s Sustainability Management

Art History & Visual Arts

Columbia’s dual focus on historical analysis and studio practice gives students a comprehensive understanding of visual culture. The Art History curriculum spans ancient to contemporary art across global cultures. Visual Arts students develop portfolios in disciplines like painting, digital media, and sculpture. 

Human Rights

One of the first programs of its kind in the U.S., Columbia’s Human Rights major integrates philosophy, political science, international law, and ethics. The program partners with the Institute for the Study of Human Rights and numerous NGOs, providing pathways into activism, policy, law, and humanitarian careers.

Urban Studies

Urban Studies is a multidisciplinary field that explores the development, organization, and challenges of cities. Students analyze housing, transportation, gentrification, and urban sustainability. Columbia’s location in NYC, a model of urban diversity and complexity, allows students to engage directly with city planning departments, nonprofits, and design firms for applied research and career experience.

Cognitive Science

This emerging field combines insights from psychology, linguistics, neuroscience, computer science, and philosophy to understand how the mind works. Topics include artificial intelligence, perception, memory, and language.

Data Science

As one of the fastest-growing fields, Columbia’s Data Science major equips students with knowledge in statistics, programming, and machine learning. Students gain hands-on experience with big data tools and collaborate on projects with tech companies and research centers, leading to high-demand roles in tech, finance, and analytics.

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Key Takeaways

• Columbia University offers a wide range of top-tier majors across disciplines—from political science and engineering to human rights and data science.
• Its prime NYC location gives students unique access to internships, global organizations, and cultural institutions that enhance their academic journey.
• With rigorous programs and hands-on experiences, Columbia majors prepare graduates for success in graduate studies, research, and global careers.

FAQs

Question 1. Is it difficult to get admission into Columbia University?
Answer. Yes, getting into Columbia University is highly competitive. With an acceptance rate of just 3.7% for the Class of 2026, it is one of the most selective universities in the world, requiring a strong academic record and an exceptional overall profile.

Question 2. Does the graduate school of Columbia University accept only TOEFL scores?

Answer 2. No, Columbia University’s graduate school does not accept only TOEFL scores. It also accepts IELTS scores. Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following:

• TOEFL PBT: Minimum score of 600
  
• TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 100
  
• IELTS: Minimum overall band score of 7.5

Question 3. What is Columbia University known for?

Answer 3. Columbia University (CU) in New York City has three undergraduate schools besides its highly regarded Business School, Teachers College, Law School, and College of Physicians and Surgeons. The university offers various study programs and is known for its Academic Values and Research.

Question 4. What are the Columbia University courses and fees?

Answer 4. Here are some of the top programs at the Columbia University – 

Question 5. What major is Columbia University known for?
Answer. Columbia University is especially known for majors in Political Science, Economics, Engineering, Computer Science, Psychology, and Social Sciences, reflecting its Ivy League academic excellence and strong career outcomes.

WRITTEN BY

Aastha

Sr. Content Writer

Aastha Arya is a Senior Content Writer at iSchoolConnect who writes about topics covering study abroad trends, exclusive news updates and prolific college courses. She has a 4-year of experience in this field and also likes to keep tabs on recent events, visa policy changes, and many other concerns that affect international students.

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