Discover which college majors shaped Boomers’ careers and how Gen Z is rewriting the playbook for the future.
Back in the ‘70s, college students had a completely different idea of what a “smart” major looked like. Fast forward to today, and Gen Z is making career choices that Boomers never saw coming. The job market, technology, and even the value of a degree have all shifted dramatically over the decades, shaping what students study.
Some fields have stood the test of time, while others have faded into history. So, which majors defined each generation? The answers might surprise you.
1. Education (1970s) / Business (Today)
In the early 1970s, education was the top major, with thousands of students training to become teachers. Schools were expanding, and teaching was seen as a stable, respected career. But over the decades, interest declined as salaries stagnated and other fields became more lucrative. Meanwhile, business has taken over as the go-to degree today. It’s practical, flexible, and opens doors to countless careers. With entrepreneurship, finance, and marketing booming, it’s no surprise that business tops the charts now.
2. Social Sciences (1970s) / Health Professions (Today)
In the ‘70s, students flocked to social sciences, eager to study sociology, political science, and economics. The civil rights movement, the Vietnam War, and social change fueled interest in these fields. Fast forward to today, and healthcare is dominating. With an aging population and increasing demand for medical professionals, careers in nursing, physical therapy, and healthcare administration are more popular than ever. The pandemic only reinforced the importance of healthcare, making it one of the fastest-growing industries.
3. Business (1970s) / Social Sciences and History (Today)
Business was climbing the ranks in the 1970s, but it wasn’t yet the powerhouse major it is today. As corporations expanded, more students saw the potential in management, finance, and marketing. Now, social sciences and history hold strong as students explore politics, culture, and global trends. With today’s rapid social changes, it makes sense that Gen Z is drawn to understanding how societies function—and how they can change them.
4. Humanities (1970s) / Engineering (Today)
The ‘70s were a golden age for the humanities, with students majoring in English, history, and philosophy. These subjects were respected and seen as pathways to academia, journalism, and law. But as job markets shifted, fewer students pursued them. Today, engineering is thriving. From software to renewable energy, engineers shape the modern world. It’s challenging, but the payoff—both financially and in job security—makes it one of the most sought-after degrees.
5. Biological and Physical Sciences (1970s) / Biological and Biomedical Sciences (Today)
Science was a strong choice in the ‘70s, with students diving into biology, chemistry, and physics. Many went into research, medicine, or education. Today, it’s still a powerhouse major, but with a stronger focus on biomedical sciences. Advances in genetics, neuroscience, and biotech have created exciting career paths. Whether it’s working in labs or developing life-saving treatments, science majors today are at the cutting edge of innovation.
6. Engineering (1970s) / Psychology (Today)
Engineering was popular in the ‘70s, though not quite as dominant as it is now. With the space race still fresh and technology advancing, it attracted those who wanted to build the future. Today, psychology has gained major traction. Mental health awareness has skyrocketed, and people are more interested in understanding human behavior. Many psychology majors pursue counseling, therapy, or research, while others use their knowledge in business, tech, and healthcare fields.
7. Psychology (1970s) / Computer and Information Sciences (Today)
Psychology was gaining popularity in the ‘70s as people became more curious about the human mind. While it wasn’t yet a mainstream career path, it laid the groundwork for today’s booming mental health field. Now, computer and information sciences are dominating. The tech industry is unstoppable, and coding, AI, and cybersecurity skills are in high demand. Unlike the ‘70s, where computers were just emerging, today’s students see them as the future.
8. Fine Arts (1970s) / Visual and Performing Arts (Today)
Creativity thrived in the ‘70s, with many students choosing fine arts as their passion. From painting to theater, it was a time of artistic expression. While the fine arts major has shrunk, visual and performing arts are still holding their own today. Film, digital media, and design have taken center stage, making this field more tech-driven than ever. Social media and streaming platforms have also transformed how artists reach audiences, making it a whole new world.
9. Health Professions (1970s) / Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs (Today)
Nursing and other health professions were growing in the ‘70s but hadn’t yet exploded in popularity like they have today. It was a solid choice, but not the top contender. Now, communication and journalism have stepped up. With social media, digital marketing, and online news dominating, these majors prepare students for fast-paced, media-driven careers. Though traditional journalism has struggled, storytelling in various forms is more important than ever.
10. Computer and Information Sciences (1970s) / Education (Today)
Computers were just starting to make their mark in the ‘70s, and only a small percentage of students majored in the field. Fast forward to today, and education has taken a backseat compared to its former glory. While teaching is still a noble profession, fewer students are pursuing it due to lower salaries and job pressures. However, those who do are passionate about shaping the next generation, proving that despite its decline, education still holds great value.