Why Major-Specific Strength Matters More Than an Overall Rank
Overall rankings measure factors such as class size, faculty salaries, alumni donations, and general reputation. But none of these metrics tell you how strong a department is in the subjects you desire to study.
For example, Cornell University is ranked #12 overall in the U.S., while Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) is #20. If you’re choosing strictly by rank, Cornell looks like the obvious winner.
However, if you’re looking to major in computer science, CMU is a global powerhouse. Choosing Cornell over Carnegie Mellon for computer science could mean missing out on more comprehensive research opportunities, stronger industry connections, more specialized faculty, and a wider peer network.
In every academic field, you will find that each university’s specialties are tailored towards a more specific and competitive learning area. Thus, it is important to do research and to reflect on your desired university’s values, goals, and programs.
Anchor Schools Shape Your Career Path
Majoring in one of these fields at an anchor school offers more than just a degree. You gain membership in a professional community that recognizes, values, and tailors your education in a manner that is best suited for you. You will experience innovative idea generation, processes for creating cutting-edge projects, and mentorship from faculty who are pioneers in their disciplines. Peer networks at these schools are uniquely motivated and ambitious, creating a learning environment that pushes you to grow academically and professionally in your niche. Alumni connections also provide guidance and pathways into highly competitive opportunities.
The reputation of these departments often extends far beyond the campus. Employers, research institutions, and graduate programs actively recruit from these anchor schools because they know the training is exceptional. Even years after graduation, the name of the department carries credibility and influence in your field, often more than the overall university brand.
Aralia Students Excel in Competitive Programs
Top Programs by Major
Different schools excel in different fields, and choosing the right program can have a profound impact on your education and career.
Fine Arts
For fine arts students, your chosen medium and genre yield technical and aesthetic skillsets that some universities specialize in and take pride in. Writers may be interested in the University of Iowa’s Writers’ Workshop, which established the first Master of Fine Arts program in Creative Writing. They state that this innovation set the model for the many literary art programs nationwide. When professionals see “Iowa” on a writer’s resume, they recognize one of the most rigorous literary training programs in the world. Professionals frequently consider Iowa as one of the most prestigious literary training programs in the world, and its name recognition may give you an advantage when you begin your career in the future. Visual artists and designers may often face the same competitive landscape as writers after art school, so they may be interested in applying to reputable programs at universities such as the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), Pratt Institute, and Parsons School of Design. These schools are consistently ranked among the top art and design schools, with graduates working at major design firms and creative agencies.
For high school students passionate about creative writing, the University of Iowa’s Iowa Young Writers’ Studio offers one of the nation’s premier experiences. Its flagship 2-Week Summer Program gives students an immersive, intensive opportunity to develop their craft among talented peers and renowned instructors.
For more standout writing opportunities, explore this list of top programs: 9 Summer Writing Programs for High School Students.
Business
The reputation of a business school can have a major impact on both your career trajectory and your starting salary after graduation. Schools with strong business programs not only provide excellent academics but also serve as gateways to top employers and competitive industries.
According to U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 rankings, the top undergraduate business programs include UPenn Wharton, Harvard, Stanford, MIT Sloan, and NYU Stern. These schools consistently attract top employers, which is why their graduates often secure higher-paying positions.
For example, Wharton is heavily recruited by major investment banks like Goldman Sachs. This is one illustration of how elite programs develop powerful pipelines into competitive industries. Similarly, schools such as MIT Sloan and Stanford offer unmatched access to tech-driven finance, entrepreneurship, and venture capital, providing students with multiple high-impact paths based on their interests.
Computer Science
For students interested in computer science, the top undergraduate programs in the U.S. include Carnegie Mellon, MIT, Stanford, UC Berkeley, and Caltech. These schools are widely recognized for their rigorous academics, cutting-edge research, and strong connections to the tech industry.
Additionally, Carnegie Mellon’s undergraduate computer science program is ranked first in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. Their curriculum is notoriously difficult, and having officially graduated from Carnegie Mellon informs employers that you handle challenging technical work excellently.
Science
In the fields of biology, chemistry, and life sciences, Harvard, Stanford, MIT, Princeton, and Johns Hopkins consistently place at the top ranks of universities. Undergraduate students at these schools take up comprehensive life science research that will shape their understanding of the known and unknown parts of our world. Students also work in labs conducting original research that often results in a publication in major academic journals. Additionally, Johns Hopkins receives more federal research funding than any other U.S. university, providing extensive research opportunities for students
Economics
Aspiring economists, mathematicians, and physicists may find interest in the defining excellence of programs in the University of Chicago, MIT, UC Berkeley, and Stanford. The University of Chicago’s economics department has been particularly instrumental in shaping modern economic theories with esteemed faculty and alumni who have won several Nobel Prizes and developed concepts like monetarism, human capital theory, and the efficient market hypothesis (University of Chicago Department of Economics).
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Why Getting in is Harder than Choosing the Right Major
Now that you’ve read about which schools excel in your chosen major, you may encounter a common difficulty when applying to these universities: being accepted into the program.
Many selective programs require students to apply directly to competitive majors or to demonstrate specific groundwork in their intended field. This means your application needs to show academic strength, genuine passion, and preparation in your chosen major. It is therefore crucial for high school students to reflect and to work on their relevant experiences that fall under their desired program’s goals and values.
For example, in creative fields like writing and art, programs often require portfolios, and sample works that demonstrate an existing craft and artistic development. For business majors, successful applicants typically demonstrate leadership experiences, entrepreneurial projects, or business-related internships. STEM majors are required to present their research experience, competition success, or even their technical skills in their applications.
How to Build a Competitive Application
Doing research on their chosen major’s goals and values may lead them to strategically present their experiences to their desired school. Students who gain admission to competitive universities have been noted to tailor the skills they wish to work on, such that it coincides with the program’s field of study. They may also gain experience in an academic setting, an internship, or in extra-curriculars. However, some students with an impressive resume may not know of the best strategies for presenting their skillsets, interests, and academic backgrounds.
Working with a mentor who understands what competitive programs look for can help students develop stronger and more detailed applications. Mentors help students develop the application skills and strategic understanding needed to compete successfully for admission to top programs.
The process involves portfolio development, essay coaching, and understanding program-specific requirements. For example, the Iowa Young Writers’ Studio, a summer program at the University of Iowa, requires a writing sample and personal statement as part of its competitive application process (University of Iowa). So whether it’s targeting summer programs or preparing for college applications with specialized majors, having expert guidance helps students present their talents effectively.
Take Aralia's College Application Essay Writing Program
Choosing the right college for your major goes beyond picking a school with a high ranking. It requires understanding which programs excel in your field and knowing how to present yourself as a strong, prepared candidate. This process can feel daunting, especially when competing for admission to programs with hundreds or thousands of applicants.
At Aralia, our College Application Essay Writing Program is designed to help students craft essays that truly reflect their passion, skills, and readiness for their chosen major. Our experienced mentors guide students in developing compelling personal statements and supplemental essays, ensuring every word strengthens their application and resonates with admissions committees.
