What are the Least Popular Majors at Stanford University?

When it comes to applying to the most selective undergraduate programs, like Stanford, demonstrating interest in a major of lesser popularity can make your application stand out from the crowd.

What you select on your application is not binding (aka, you are not committed to that major just because you indicated interest!). Still, it’s important that the major you select ties into your application “pitch,” and how you are presenting yourself to that specific school. 

Here is a list of the least popular majors at Stanford, organized by broader interest:

For those interested in … 

Cross-Cultural Studies

• Iberian Latin American Cultures

• Asian American Studies

• Native American Studies

• China Studies

Want to learn about different cultures or pursue a career in government or diplomacy? Choosing a specific region or culture to focus on, like China or Native American cultures, is a great way to specify a broader interest in cross-cultural studies. Schools appreciate applicants with specific interests!

The Sciences

• Geological Sciences

• Energy Resources Engineering

Rather than indicating an interest in a broader scientific field, like Biology or Chemistry, more niche majors can give your application a different edge. These majors are also unique to Stanford, which you can use in your Why Essay as a reason you want to attend Stanford specifically.

Majoring in a Language

• Italian

• Japanese

• German Studies

• Slavic Languages and Literatures

Do you have an interest and a demonstrated academic strength in languages? Indicating interest in pursuing a language at Stanford could be a good idea.

Again, what you state in your application is non-binding! If you realize that you do not want to major in languages once admitted, it is easy to explore other options before declaring your major at the end of sophomore year. 

The Humanities

• Philosophy and Religious Studies

• Religious Studies

• Archaeology

Do you love history, social studies— anything having to do with the humanities? These interdisciplinary majors will allow you to explore all the subjects you love, but through a different lens. Take courses like “Justice Across Borders” or “What Didn’t Make the Bible.”

The Arts

• Art Practice

• Music

For those who are artistically minded, a major in Art or Music could be a good choice. Since these are BA (Bachelor of Arts) degrees, you will be learning much more than just art or music technique. You will receive comprehensive understanding of the function of art and music in history, culture, and society.

In Conclusion…

Selecting a niche major can both make you stand out from the application pool, while also serving to specify your academic interests. Just make sure you have evidence to back up that academic interest in your supplemental essays. 

Unsure how to write about your major of interest in your supplements? Schedule a free consultation with us, and we’ll discuss how to connect your indicated major to your larger application “pitch.”

See also: What Are the Least Popular Majors at the University of Pennsylvania?