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Online college college classes give you the flexibility to study from anywhere — your bedroom, home office, or even a coffee shop. Having the option to take some (or all) of your classes online can also make it easier to balance school with other commitments, such as a full-time job or family responsibilities.

However, online learning also comes with some challenges. It can be difficult to focus if you’re not in an actual classroom. Plus, virtual learning can make it harder to make connections with professors and other students at the school.

Read on for a closer look at how online classes work, their pros and cons, and how to make the most of virtual learning.

Types of Online Classes

There are two main types of online classes. Here’s a closer look at each.

Hybrid Approach

A hybrid course is a mix of in-person instruction and remote learning. The exact schedule will vary by school, class, and instructor, but may include several hours of live or prerecorded virtual learning per week with one in-person session. For example, a chemistry course could include virtual learning and in-person lab work.

Hybrid courses offer the benefits of remote learning without fully abandoning in-person instruction, making it a prime choice for students concerned that online classes may not meet their needs.

Exclusively Virtual

Classes that are all virtual never meet in person. Instruction is given through live webinars, prerecorded video, and physical or digital material.

Depending on the format of the course, students can fit sessions into their schedule as they see fit, an option not provided by a hybrid or traditional class.


💡 Quick Tip: Fund your education with a low-rate, no-fee SoFi private student loan that covers all school-certified costs.

Benefits and Potential Pitfalls of Virtual Courses

While virtual learning is ideal for some students, it may be frustrating for others. Here’s a look at some of the pros and cons of taking college courses online.

Pros of Online Courses

Flexibility: The ability to learn whenever and wherever can be a huge advantage for a student with a hectic schedule. Though there are still deadlines and due dates to abide by, learning can typically take place around work, social commitments, and personal preferences. While some courses may include live remote sessions, they’re typically recorded and available for students to view at a later time.

Real-life experience: Online courses tend to put more responsibility on the student. Learning how to prioritize instruction in a flexible schedule can help prepare students for careers.

Potential savings: If a course was designed to be taught in person but has recently been adapted for online instruction, a discount may not be available. But for courses originally built for virtual learning, students often find they can save on the average credit cost. An online degree might also have a condensed schedule. allowing you to get your degree faster.

There are other savings to consider. With online instruction, students generally don’t have to worry about paying for parking, gas, or lunch on the go. Plus virtual learning can allow you to pursue an education while working full or part time, an option not always available to in-person students.

Recommended: How to Pay for Online College

Potential Cons of Online Courses

Minimal social benefits: One potential downside to taking a class online is lack of personal interaction. You might find it harder to ask the teacher questions and make connections with fellow students. And, some students simply respond better to in-person vs. online learning, and might struggle to concentrate when learning virtually.

A lack of professional networking: Students often discover opportunities to build relationships with professors and assistants that can lead to careers. Virtual learning makes these relationships more difficult to find and develop.

Scheduling conflicts: While the flexibility of online classes can be appealing, it can create scheduling conflicts. If you are challenged by time management, you may find yourself procrastinating and struggling to manage your workload along with other everyday responsibilities.

Tips for Online Classes

Here are some words to the wise for taking online courses, for both newbies and experienced virtual students.

•   Respect the course. Do you suspect that an online course has less value than in-person instruction? The educational value is the same. It’s just being delivered in a different fashion.

•   Think about time management. Even experienced virtual students can often improve their time management skills. Review the syllabus at the start of the semester, note major assignments, and look for potential conflicts.

•   Try to avoid distractions. When taking online courses, it might be best not to set up in front of the TV, as tempting as it may be. Consider cobbling together a home office that blocks distractions and creates a productive environment.

•   Participate. While an online class can be an introvert’s dream, there are still opportunities to participate. Many online courses offer a forum for students and instructors to discuss course materials, comment on one another’s work, and ask questions as needed.

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Funding the Virtual Voyage

Even though some online classes and degree programs can be more affordable than their in-person counterparts, tuition costs may still come with sticker shock. Depending on the school and online program you’re looking to enroll in, however, you may have the following options to help fund your college education.

Paying à la Carte

Online courses are often designed to fit a working student’s schedule (though being employed certainly isn’t a requirement). In some cases, you may be able to pay for classes as you go. In others, the school may also offer a payment plan, allowing you to make monthly payments over time to cover the cost of your online degree.

Federal Loans

By filling out the Federal Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you will find out if you are eligible for federal student aid, including grants (which you don’t have to pay back) and loans (which you do).

With federal subsidized student loans, you won’t start accruing interest until six months after you graduate. With unsubsidized federal loans, interest begins to accrue as soon as the funds are dispersed (though you can defer making any payments until six months after you graduate). Federal student loans don’t require a credit check and come with a relatively low, fixed interest rate set by the government.

Private Loans

If there are still gaps in funding, you may also want to explore private student loans. These are available through private lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders, and do require a credit check. If you don’t have much credit history or income, you will likely need a cosigner. Rates may be fixed or variable, and are set by the lender. Borrowers with excellent credit tend to qualify for the lowest rates.

A private loan can cover up to 100% of the cost of school-certified attendance, both for in-person and online courses. Keep in mind, though, that federal student loans offer benefits, like income-based repayment plans and Public Service Loan Forgiveness, that are not guaranteed by private lenders.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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The process of getting into college actually starts long before you fill out your first application. In fact, soon after you start high school, it can be a good idea to start laying the groundwork for college, from choosing the right classes to thinking about where you might like to go to figuring out how you’re going to cover the cost.

What follows is a simple five-step, pre-college plan that can help you find, get into, and pay for your dream school.

Preparing For College: A 5-Part Checklist

For many things in life, preparation is the key to success. And this is certainly true when it comes to getting into college. Here are five steps that can help you set yourself up for a successful college experience.

1. Research Your Dream School

One of the first parts of preparing for college is deciding which college or university is right for you. The good news is that there is a school out there for just about everyone. The bad news is that you have so many options that you might be overwhelmed with choices.

Some students know right away that they want to go to the same school their parents went to, while others may be limited to choosing between a few in-state campuses. Regardless of your position, there are some questions you can ask yourself to help narrow down your college search:

What Type of Career Do You Want to Pursue?

One of the first things you might consider is what you hope to do with your degree. If you already know that you want to be an urban planner, then you may want to focus your college search on schools with stellar urban planning programs. Think your dream is too niche?

Whether you want to study auctioneering or Egyptology, there’s likely a program for you. If, on the other hand, you aren’t sure what you want to major in, you may want to look at bigger schools with many different programs where you will be able to take a wide variety of classes.


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Where Do You Want to be Located?

You may also want to consider what type of location you’re looking for in a college experience. Maybe you want to get as far away from home as possible, or maybe you would be more comfortable on a campus within driving distance of your family. Some students choose to live at home and attend a local college in order to save money on living costs. Once you narrow down a location, you can start searching for schools in that area.

Recommended: Should I Go to Community College?

How Many Schools Will You Apply To?

It’s not a bad idea to apply to multiple schools even if you have your heart set on just one. Your dreams and goals can change through the college application process, and a different school may be a better match when it comes time to make a final decision. Plus, the application process can be competitive, and applying to more schools may give you more chance of success in your application.

Recommended: College vs University: What’s the Difference?

2. Plan For the SAT and ACT

Once you know where you want to apply, it is time to get down to business and start preparing for college entrance exams. Some schools require the Scholastic Aptitude Test, known as the SAT, and some schools require American College Testing, known as the ACT. Many schools will accept either one.

The key to working towards a killer score on either test is preparation, preparation, preparation. Whether you’re taking an after-school prep class or studying by yourself, there are lots of resources available online to help you succeed. Both the SAT and the ACT offer free practice tests, and Khan Academy offers a free SAT practice program .

Taking practice tests can help you not only learn the material but can help you get comfortable with the format of the test. This can help you stay calm and confident when test day rolls around.

Recommended: Do Your SAT Scores Really Matter for College?

3. Get Involved In Extracurriculars

In between all that studying, you may want to consider taking some time to get to work in your community. One thing many colleges look for are multi-faceted students who are interested in more than just academics.

That means that getting involved in the community could potentially help you write a strong college application, and it may also help you decide what you want to do with your life. Sports obsessed? You might consider taking up a new sport to round out your classes or volunteering to coach a local youth team.

More into classic literature than shooting hoops? Many schools have programs where you can volunteer to tutor younger students, which can not only help sharpen your skills, but may look great on an application. Whatever you’re into, don’t be afraid to branch out and try something new — you might discover you have a passion for marine biology after organizing a beach clean up day with your classmates.

Recommended: College Planning Checklist for Parents

4. Consider Taking AP Courses

Many schools offer Advanced Placement or “AP” courses. Taking these classes may help you get one step ahead when it comes to college. AP courses allow you to tackle college-level material while you’re still in high school, and at the end of the class (if you pass the AP exam), you could be rewarded with college credits. Why try to rack up college credits in high school?

The more credits you earn from AP classes in high school, the more intro classes you may be able to skip in college. So if you take AP English in high school, you may qualify to skip out on the freshman level English class once you’re at school.

Depending on the school, that may mean that you have more opportunity to take specialized classes in your major, or it could even lead to the opportunity to graduate early.

5. Figure Out Your Finances

There’s no denying that college can be expensive. For the 2022-2023 academic year, the average tuition at a public college was $11,744 for state residents and $21,928 for out-of-state students. The average tuition and fees for a private college was $27,796. Keep in mind: These numbers don’t include the cost of housing, food, text books and supplies.

According to the Sallie Mae How America Pays for College 2023 , parent income and savings covered 50% of college costs. So, even if you’ll get some help from your family, you may need more funding to cover some of the cost of college. Fortunately, there are many ways to finance your education.

A good place to start is by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which will let you know if you are eligible for financial aid, including grants, scholarships, work study, and federal student loans. If those do not cover your costs, you may also consider private student loans.

Private student loans are available through private lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates and terms vary, depending on the lender. Generally, borrowers (or cosigners) who have strong credit qualify for the lowest rates.

Keep in mind, though, that private loans may not offer the borrower protections — like income-based repayment plans and deferment or forbearance — that automatically come with federal student loans. But if you are looking for supplemental funding for your education, private student loans are an option.


💡 Quick Tip: Parents and sponsors with strong credit and income may find much lower rates on no-fee private parent student loans than federal parent PLUS loans. Federal PLUS loans also come with an origination fee.

The Takeaway

The college application process can be overwhelming. Breaking it down into smaller steps and goals can make it feel a little bit easier. Consider researching schools, making a plan for standardized testing, expanding your involvement in extracurriculars, and taking AP level courses. Getting into college is half the equation, however — the other half is paying for it.

When federal financial aid, scholarships, grants, and savings aren’t enough -– student loans may be one option to consider to help fill in the gaps.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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Many Americans use the words “college” and “university” interchangeably, since both refer to schools that offer undergraduate degree programs. However, there are actually some key differences between colleges and universities.

Generally, schools that are called “colleges” tend to be smaller and focused on two- or four-year degrees, while those with “university” in their name are often larger institutions that offer a variety of both undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

If you’re applying to college or graduate school, it can be helpful to understand the similarities and differences between colleges and universities. Here are key things to know.

Comparing College vs University

Colleges and universities are both higher educational institutions that people attend after finishing high school, but there are some major distinctions between the two. Here’s a helpful overview explaining the difference between college vs. university.

Community Colleges

When it comes to understanding colleges, there are a few different types to keep in mind. Community colleges and career colleges are usually smaller than traditional colleges, often offering two-year degrees, like an Associate’s Degree or pre-professional certificate. Many community colleges also host online degrees and, in some cases, do not expect students to live on campus.

Some students attend a community college with the intention of then transferring to a four-year college or university to get their undergraduate degree. Others opt for community colleges precisely because they want to earn a pre-professional or technical certificate and then work right away.


💡 Quick Tip: You can fund your education with a low-rate, no-fee private student loan that covers all school-certified costs.

Four-Year Colleges

Another major type of college is a four-year institution. These schools offer undergraduate degrees, typically a Bachelor of Arts (BA). Sometimes, students choose to go to community college first because it is less expensive. But, some students will choose to go directly to a four-year college after high school.

Generally, four-year colleges are smaller schools that tend to focus on offering undergraduate degrees and a broad-based curriculum, including the liberal arts. Frequently, four-year colleges expect students to reside on campus during some or all of their studies.

Recommended: Ultimate College Application Checklist

Understanding Universities

Universities also offer undergraduate degrees, but they differ from colleges in some significant ways. Usually, a university is a larger institution, frequently offering graduate degrees as well.

In addition, most universities tend to be research-focused, hosting on-campus laboratories and hiring faculty recognized for their publications or academic findings. Universities can be either public or private.

One extra (and confusing) snarl here: At some institutions, the word “college” is also used to describe certain departments or divisions of the school. For instance, a university might have a College of Arts and Sciences or College of Engineering.

Pros and Cons of a College

When debating college vs. university, one potential advantage of choosing a college over a university is its smaller size. Not all colleges are smaller than universities, but it is a common difference.

In some cases, going to a smaller school can mean getting more one-on-one time with professors. If you’re hoping to maintain a relationship with professors after graduation (or intending to apply to graduate school), more interaction with professors can be an added benefit. Having smaller class sizes could also make it easier to get to know classmates.

Some colleges, especially liberal arts colleges, tend to focus more on general education (rather than offering pre-professional or research-based programs). If you have a particular interest or career you want to focus on as soon as you start college, it can be a good idea to make sure any colleges you’re applying to offer that field of study.

In some cases, a college might also have more limitations in regards to class availability, as some limit the number of students allowed per class. This isn’t the case for every college, so it can be useful to research each specific school’s policies carefully.

Depending on your chosen major, some classes may not be offered every semester at smaller colleges, which could mean you’ll need to engage in more long-term planning to ensure you’re able to take all required classes before graduating.

Pros and Cons of a University

Universities are, generally, larger and therefore boast more opportunities when it comes to availability of classes, diversity of majors, and extracurricular activities. Whether you’re interested in a niche major or looking for a wide variety of social clubs, you may be more likely to find it at a larger university.

Both public and private universities offer four-year degrees. There’s typically a difference in price — public universities are typically more affordable for in-state residents compared to private universities and colleges.

Universities might also offer both undergraduate and graduate degrees. Because universities can offer graduate degrees, there’s usually a stronger commitment to research at these schools, including master’s or doctoral degree programs.

If you’re looking to get an undergraduate and graduate degree at the same school, a university may be a good choice, since it might be easier to get accepted to the graduate program if you’ve already earned a degree at that school.

The cons of going to a university can also be tied to size. A larger university might not offer as many opportunities to secure one-on-one time with professors that you might find at a college. There may be more large lecture classes offered at a university than at smaller colleges, too.

Large class sizes can also make it harder for students to get to know their fellow classmates.

Recommended: States That Offer Free College Tuition Programs

Why Choose One Over the Other?

Whether it’s better to go to a college or a university will depend on each student’s specific situation and academic or career goals. Identifying a specific course of study (or professional trajectory) up front might make it easier to choose which schools to apply to and, ultimately, which one to attend.

If you’re interested in getting research experience and/or you’re looking for a variety of extracurricular activities, you might be happier with a university. If, on the other hand, you’re keen on getting a liberal arts education, value smaller classes, and/or would enjoy more opportunity to interact with your professors and classmates, you might feel more at home at a college.

Neither a college or university is, by definition, a better choice. It’s okay to apply to both colleges and universities, as long as each school meets your specific needs.


💡 Quick Tip: Would-be borrowers will want to understand the different types of student loans that are available: private student loans, federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans, Direct PLUS loans, and more.

Funding College or University

Cost can also be a major factor when deciding where you will ultimately go to school. It can be a good idea to apply to a mix of schools (including both colleges and universities), then consider the cost of attendance and compare financial aid packages offered by each one.

Attending one of your state’s public universities is often more affordable than going to a private college or university. However, that may not always be the case, depending on what scholarships and grants a college is able to offer.

A smart first step to figuring out how you’ll pay for a college or university is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This will let you know if you are eligible for any federal aid, which may include grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans (which can be subsidized or unsubsidized). Grants and scholarships typically don’t have to be repaid, but loans generally do.

To fill in any gaps in funding, you may also want to explore private student loans. Private student loans aren’t based on need, and are available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders. To apply for a private student loan, you generally fill out a loan application either alone or with a cosigner. Rates vary depending on the lender but borrowers with excellent credit typically qualify for the lowest rates.

Just keep in mind that private student loans may not offer borrower protections, such as deferment and income-driven repayment plans, that come with federal student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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After studying for standardized tests, applying to schools, and leaving home for college, it may feel like the big decisions are over. Getting to campus is an achievement any student should be proud of, but starting a four-year degree comes with its own share of choices.

Top among them is picking a college major. Declaring a major is a personal process based on a student’s interests, strengths, and projected career track. But simply browsing the course catalog to search for the right major is enough to make even the most assured student’s head spin.

[For many undergraduates, choosing a major is intimidating, especially when colleges and universities offer dozens or even hundreds of options. Researching the most popular majors can help undecided students narrow their selection and find the best majors for their interests and professional goals.]

A Major List

While popularity doesn’t need to drive which major you choose, diving into the data on popular college majors can illuminate trends and provide a jumping-off point for college students who just can’t decide how to declare.

Based on Niche’s top majors , ranked by the number of degrees awarded, here’s what students are studying at U.S. colleges and what career tracks they can expect when they leave campus.


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Business and Management

Major Description: An all-encompassing term, business and management programs provide a baseline of business principles, which include critical thinking and analysis. Courses include Accounting, Business Ethics, Team Development, and Human Resources.

Job Opportunities: This broad major provides lots of postgrad directions. It can take graduates on an MBA track or can feed directly into the job market with roles in accounting, marketing, sales, account management, or financial analysis.

Recommended: Return on Education for Bachelor’s Degrees

Nursing

Major Description: There are many pathways to a nursing education. From certifications to master’s degrees, nursing course loads include everything from Anatomy and Chemistry to Statistics and care for specific populations.

Job Opportunities: The demand for nurses is growing as the industry faces a shortage of qualified hires. Graduates with a nursing degree can choose from a variety of career tracks, from being a school nurse or research nurse to working on a cruise ship or in the emergency room.

Psychology

Major Description: Psychology is the deep dive into human behavior and what drives us. A degree in psychology can be a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts, depending on the course load. Areas of study include learning, memory, development, addiction, and childhood development.

Job Opportunities: A bachelor’s degree in psychology could mean heading to a master’s program or a doctorate, or it could lead to immediate employment in fields like marketing, teaching, or human resources.

Biology

Major Description: Biology is the study of living things, so biology majors can expect to spend plenty of class time in the lab, learning everything from human anatomy to molecular biology. It’s a mix of math, science, chemistry, and, of course, biology.

Job Opportunities: Some biology majors may choose the medical school track after graduation, but that’s not the only path to employment. Biology majors can pursue careers in pharmaceuticals, research, genetics, medicine, and even finance (thanks to a background in math and research).

Engineering

Major Description: A degree in engineering means having the critical thinking skills to solve problems. Engineering majors, embodying a mix of math, science, and business, can choose specific areas of study, from the environment to structural mechanics and chemicals.

Job Opportunities: From the laboratory to a construction site or hospital, engineers have a wide variety of career tracks to choose from. Much of this will be informed by a student’s specific area of study. A structural or civil engineer might work on state building projects, while a chemical engineer is more likely to be found in the lab, perfecting everything from medicine to cosmetics.

Recommended: Computer Science vs. Computer Engineering: What’s the Difference?

Education

Major Description: A degree in education includes studying psychology, education, and often an area of expertise (what the student will teach after graduation).

Job Opportunities: A degree in education doesn’t always mean a teaching career. Besides teaching, graduates can go into a variety of industries that support the education system, including school administration, counseling, education policy, or student life.

Recommended: What is a TEACH Grant and How Do You Get One?

Communications

Major Description: Communications is an umbrella term for the study of media and information, from journalism to social media and public relations. Classes a communications major might take are News Writing, Mass Communications, Film Studies, and Social Media.

Job Opportunities: What graduates will do with a communications degree will hinge on the type of media they studied in school. A student who concentrates in visual media might work as a video producer or camera operator. One who studied journalism might work in public relations or technical writing.

Finance and Accounting

Major Description: Finance and accounting deal with the scrutiny of numbers. Finance often focuses on the longer term — like financial planning and budgeting. Accounting can involve more short-term money matters, like analyzing financial statements. Both degrees involve studying math, business, finances, and investments.

Job Opportunities: With a degree in finance or accounting, it’s only natural to pursue a role that deals with math and/or money. Accounting majors can pursue careers in accounting, bookkeeping, or auditing. Finance can lead to roles as an advisor, planner, or analyst in the finance space.

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Criminal Justice

Major Description: For those interested in the law, majoring in criminal justice might be a good fit. This major explores not only the legal system but also the psychological study of crime, sociology, and public policy.

Job Opportunities: After graduation, many criminal justice majors will pursue law school, but that’s not the only option. Graduates can also explore law enforcement or counseling.

Anthropology and Sociology

Major Description: Anthropology and sociology are inherently the study of people — the exploration of race, gender, and geography’s influence on societies, blending the study of history with modern analysis.

Job Opportunities: Graduates may work in the research field or medical anthropology. Additionally, they may find work at the federal level, where anthropologists are often required for major projects.

Computer Science

Major Description: Computer science is the study of data, engineering, and the systems surrounding computers. A major in computer science means a steady mix of math classes and software engineering or programming courses.

Job Opportunities: The Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates the need for computer science jobs to grow by 21% percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual salary for computer science jobs was $131,490 in 2021 (the most recent year they have data for). Graduates can explore software development, information technology, or network security.

English

Major Description: An English major explores everything about the written word, including genres of literature and interpretation. English majors also learn critical thinking and the ability to write, whether that be technical, creative, legal, or medical writing.

Job Opportunities: Because many jobs include a solid foundation in reading and writing, an English degree can apply across many fields. Graduates might go into teaching, writing (journalist, copywriter, author), communications, or public relations.

Economics

Major Description: Economics combines the study of people with statistics to learn how government and groups develop around resources, typically money. Students will study economic theory, the history of economics, and the math that’s behind much of the statistical monitoring.

Job Opportunities: Graduates can take a variety of roles, thanks to the analytic skills of their major. That, on top of learned communication skills, makes economics majors a good fit for roles like analysts, consultants, and actuaries.

Political Science

Major Description: Political science is the study of governing, including theory, history, and current practices. This area of study requires students to follow current events as well as analyze and research past actions.

Job Opportunities: Studying political science can lead to a job in politics, but there are other options as well. The critical thinking skills lend themselves well to PR and social media management, as well as policy work or analysis.

History

Major Description: History majors analyze the past. A core part of a liberal arts degree, studying history may be a good fit for students who want a generalist education.

Job Opportunities: History majors perfect a lot of skills that come in handy in the workplace. Strong writing, reading, and analytical skills make them a great fit for roles like analyst or consultant, or a career in politics.

Recommended: The Ultimate Guide to Liberal Arts Colleges

Kinesiology/Physical Therapy

Major Description: Kinesiology is the study of physical activity. Specifically, it’s working with people to improve their health through exercising. A degree in kinesiology involves anatomy, hands-on work, and learning to work with patients.

Job Opportunities: For many, a degree in kinesiology is the foundation for a doctorate in physical therapy, but graduates can also apply their skills to careers in training, coaching, and some forms of therapy.

Health Professions

Major Description: This major will prepare students to work in the medical field, helping patients. They can expect to take classes in anatomy, chemistry, biology, public health, and medical ethics.

Job Opportunities: Graduates can find careers as health care aides, nursing assistants, and RNs.

Art

Major Description: Studying art creates the opportunity to both learn the history of a medium and create art. Students may choose a specific form of art or study movements and mediums in general.

Job Opportunities: Grads don’t have to turn to creating art full time unless they want to. They can work as art educators, in museums and art preservation, or try their hand in the work of gallery curation.

Math

Major Description: Students majoring in math will explore all math disciplines, in addition to theoretical and historical context around the subject.

Job Opportunities: A math degree is helpful in any career that deals with interpreting numbers daily: actuary, data scientist, teacher, or software developer.

Environmental Science

Major Description: Studying environmental science can be a great fit for generalists who want to explore many subjects around our surroundings and the science involved. They’ll study chemistry, biology, physics, and geography, among other subjects.

Job Opportunities: Graduates can pursue careers in research in fields including horticulture, oceanography, microbiology, and ecology.


💡 Quick Tip: Would-be borrowers will want to understand the different types of student loans that are available: private student loans, federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans, Direct PLUS loans, and more.

Paying for College

Another major decision in the college process? Finding a way to pay for school.

Whatever you decide to major in (and whichever school you end up going to), a great first step to figure out college funding is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This will let you know if you are eligible for any federal aid, which may include grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans.

To fill in any gaps in funding, you may also want to explore private student loans. These are available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates and terms vary by lender but borrowers (or cosigners) with excellent credit typically qualify for the lowest rates.

Just keep in mind that private student loans may not offer borrower protections, such as deferment and income-driven repayment plans, that come with federal student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. SoFi Bank, N.A. and its lending products are not endorsed by or directly affiliated with any college or university unless otherwise disclosed.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Checking Your Rates: To check the rates and terms you may qualify for, SoFi conducts a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. However, if you choose a product and continue your application, we will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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Finally, a summer full of goodbyes, shopping for dorm room essentials, and anticipation is coming to an end. College orientation is an exciting initiation into freshman year and an opportunity to learn about extracurricular activities, make friends, and get acclimated to your new surroundings.

While it may span just a few days or a week in total, college orientation is packed with information and experiences that can set you up for success over the next four years.

Planning ahead and diving into the details of the orientation schedule is just one of many ways to prepare for college. Although every school operates differently, here are some key college orientation tips and things to expect when you arrive on campus.

When Does Orientation Take Place?

Some college orientations happen in the middle of summer, while others take place right before the beginning of the semester. The earlier variety is typically conducted in smaller groups and may be organized separately for specific programs or majors.

Midsummer orientations often give students the opportunity to stay in the dorms ahead of moving to campus. This can be a useful test run to get acquainted with the dorm life and mingle with fellow incoming students.


💡 Quick Tip: When shopping for a private student loan lender, look for benefits that help lower your monthly payment.

What Is an Orientation Schedule Like?

Once the college orientation schedule is available, look out for which parts are mandatory, such as taking a student ID photo and registering for classes, and any optional social, extracurricular, and informational activities that sound interesting or helpful.

College orientation is a time to make friends and get acquainted with college life, but knowing where the dining hall, laundry room, student transportation, and other services are located also comes in handy.

Having a game plan for the orientation schedule will give you an opportunity to invite new acquaintances to attend an event or activity together. At the same time, allowing yourself to go with the flow a bit might alleviate some of the stress.

Compared to a strictly regulated high school schedule, college students are given much more discretion in making decisions for themselves. While this newfound freedom can be liberating, it can present challenges for balancing academic responsibilities with the fun, social aspects of college.

Orientation is a chance to get acclimated before the pressure of staying on top of schoolwork arises.

Recommended: 10 Ways to Prepare for College

What Happens at Orientation?

The full scope of college orientation will vary by institution. However, there will likely be a mix of instructional and social activities to round out each day. Some topics that are typically covered include:

•   School rules, policies, and code of conduct

•   Meetings with an academic or department advisor

•   Guided tour of campus

•   Skits and role-play activities

•   Ice breakers with a residential advisor and dorm floormates

While some sessions may feel tedious, making a good first impression on a residential advisor, professor, and peers can be invaluable.

Learning About Extracurricular Activities and Campus Life

College orientation usually includes a range of informational and fun activities to introduce students to campus activities. Many student clubs and organizations have tables at orientation or early in the semester to meet and attract incoming students.

Depending on school size and culture, the number of offerings and niches can be vast compared to high school, including intramural sports, Greek life, theater troupes, and culture clubs.

Learning the Lay of the Land

After the guided tour, you may want to spend some time going over (and memorizing) how to get to the dining hall, student center, and your classrooms — this can save you lots of time and potential embarrassment from being late on the first day of classes. Classrooms may be organized by department in different buildings across campus.

During college orientation, you may also be able to join group outings to explore your college town or sign up for guided shopping trips to pick up groceries, cleaning supplies, and other dorm essentials.

Moving Into the Dorms

At colleges that hold orientation directly before the beginning of the semester, you may be able to sign up in advance for a block of time to park and transport your belongings into your dorm room.

With many students and families arriving on the same day, the scene can be a bit of a frenzy. Keep an eye out for registration emails prior to orientation to snag a good move-in time.

Mid to late morning is often a safe bet to get ahead of the crowds and summer heat. Also, packing efficiently can save time and stress on move-in day.

Beyond studying and sleeping, dorms are a social hive for freshmen students. A helpful college orientation tip: Setting up a welcoming, furnished dorm room is a great way to prepare for movie nights and parties with newfound friends.

Recommended: College Freshman Checklist for the Upcoming School Year

Downtime for Socializing

The orientation schedule tends to wind down in the afternoon and early evening, allowing students plenty of time to hang out and get to know each other. Keeping that in mind may help you resist the urge to skip important orientation sessions to meet up with new roommates and friends.

What About Parents and Family?

While starting college is an exciting time, it can also feel bittersweet for students, parents, and other family members. To honor the occasion, many colleges incorporate group activities, lunches, and festivities for students and families to partake in together during the first day or two of orientation.

Before saying goodbyes, parents and family members may be able to join a separate orientation to prepare them for the transition. Usually, these sessions are intended to provide guidance to support students and offer insight into their child’s life at college.

They are also an opportunity for families to meet other families, as well as learn about resources and noteworthy events, such as family weekend and homecoming.


💡 Quick Tip: Parents and sponsors with strong credit and income may find much lower rates on no-fee private parent student loans than federal parent PLUS loans. Federal PLUS loans also come with an origination fee.

Paying for College

College orientations may also offer sessions about navigating the financial aid system. Tuition, books, and other educational costs aren’t cheap, and everyone’s financial situation is different.

Financial aid sessions may cover aid distribution dates, when tuition is due, how to pay tuition, and how to add money to student accounts for incidentals. Parents and students may want to attend this session together to ask questions that come up during the discussion.

Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to pay for higher education. In addition to saving for college ahead of time, there are several options to consider when creating a plan.

Scholarships

Scholarships are awarded to students by community organizations, private foundations, nonprofits, colleges, and other groups. The criteria for earning a scholarship varies, though many focus on academic achievement, financial need, or program of study.

According to Sallie Mae’s “How Americans Pay for College” 2023 report, approximately 61% of college students received scholarship money during the 2022-2023 academic year.

Many scholarship applications open before college starts, though there may be additional opportunities once college begins. Researching scholarships in your hometown and college is a great place to start.

Online resources, such as collegeboard.org and SoFi’s Scholarship Search Tool, keep an updated list of scholarships as well. Applying early for scholarships may be an advantage, as some large awards may have early deadlines. For instance, some scholarships stop accepting applications during the fall for distribution the next school year.

Grants

Like scholarships, grants are financial awards given to students to pay for their education — they do not have to be repaid. The main difference is that grants are usually based on need instead of academic merit. By completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you can find out what aid you are eligible for, including the federal Pell Grant Program or state-wide grant opportunities.

Work-Study

Many college students pick up a part-time job to help pay tuition and living expenses. One way to secure work is through Federal Work-Study , a program that employs qualified college and graduate students in on- or off-campus jobs. Pay varies, but participants will earn at least minimum wage.

Work-study eligibility is based on several factors, including family income and enrollment status, and is offered as part of a student’s financial aid package.

A job is not guaranteed even if work-study is awarded. Early application is key because a school’s program funds may be limited and jobs are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Student Loans

Whether or not you receive a scholarship, grant, or work-study, there are several student loan options you might want to consider applying for.

Federal student loans, which are either subsidized or unsubsidized, are offered as part of a student’s financial aid package. If you qualify for a subsidized student loan (which is based on need), interest won’t begin to accrue until six months after you graduate. With an unsubsidized federal student loan, interest begins to accrue right away (though you can defer making any payments until six months after you graduate). Interest rates on federal student loans are fixed; for the 2023-2024 academic year, the rate for a subsidized or unsubsidized federal loan is 5.50%.

Private student loans from banks, credit unions, and online lenders may help fill any remaining gaps in paying for college. These loans are not subsidized or need-based, and their interest rates may be fixed or variable.

To apply for a private student loan, you generally fill out a loan application either alone or with a cosigner. Rates vary depending on the lender but borrowers with excellent credit typically qualify for the lowest rates.

Just keep in mind that private student loans may not offer borrower protections, such as deferment and income-driven repayment plans, that come with federal student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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