Colleges with Majors Encouraging the Least Frequent Late-Night Studies

In the world of academia, some majors are known for their demanding nature, with rigorous lab work, complex equations, and intensive study hours characteristic of STEM fields. However, there are other majors that offer a more balanced college experience, with manageable course loads and higher average GPAs. Here's a list of 15 such majors, primarily from the humanities and social sciences, that are often easier and more flexible compared to STEM majors.

1. Communications

Communications majors delve into the art of sharing information through public speaking, mass media, and digital platforms. With generally less intensive study hours, this major focuses on varied methods of communication, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a more balanced college experience.

2. English

English majors immerse themselves in literature, grammar, and rhetorical analysis. The coursework mainly involves reading literature and writing, with study hours around 16 per week. This major allows for a high overall GPA as students often find the reading assignments pleasurable.

3. Economics

Economics, while moderately quantitative, offers a reasonable workload and strong career prospects. With an average GPA of around 3.0, this major provides a solid return on investment.

4. Sociology

Sociology majors study social structures, institutions, and relationships. The coursework often involves readings, essays, and group discussions, making it a manageable choice for many students.

5. Psychology

Psychology majors delve into mental processes and human behavior. With an emphasis on understanding research methods and statistics, this major offers a balanced workload compared to some STEM majors.

6. Education

Education majors focus on teaching methods rather than heavy technical content. This major provides a practical approach to learning, making it a flexible choice for those interested in education.

7. Political Science

Political Science majors explore the study of governments, politics, and political behaviour. With a focus on theory and discussion, this major offers a manageable workload.

8. History

History majors analyse past events to understand current societal structures. With a focus on research and analysis, this major offers a balanced workload compared to some STEM majors.

9. Liberal Arts/General Studies

Liberal Arts/General Studies majors cover a wide range of subjects including literature, philosophy, and social sciences. Though often criticised for lower average starting salaries, liberal arts grads are valued in fields like education, human resources, and public relations.

10. Humanities

Humanities majors focus on the study of the humanities, including literature, philosophy, and the arts. With a focus on theory and discussion, this major offers a manageable workload.

11. Art History

Art History majors delve into the study of art and its history. With a focus on visual analysis and interpretation, this major offers a manageable workload compared to some STEM majors.

12. Anthropology

Anthropology majors explore human culture, history, and evolution. With a focus on fieldwork and research, this major offers a manageable workload compared to some STEM majors.

13. Journalism

Journalism majors study the collection, writing, and dissemination of news and information. With a focus on writing and research, this major offers a manageable workload compared to some STEM majors.

14. Business Administration (non-quantitative tracks)

Business Administration majors, particularly those in non-quantitative tracks, learn about management, finance, and marketing. With a focus on theory and discussion, this major offers a manageable workload compared to some STEM majors.

15. Theatre/Drama Studies

Theatre/Drama Studies majors delve into the study of drama and theatre, including performance, production, and analysis. With a focus on performance and creative expression, this major offers a manageable workload compared to some STEM majors.

Choosing one of these majors offers an advantage for students seeking strong academic performance with a more balanced college experience relative to the intensive demands of STEM disciplines. However, career outcomes vary and students may consider minors or double majors to augment marketability.

This list is synthesized from recent college major difficulty analyses, GPA averages, and course workload estimates in 2025 sources.

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Colleges with Majors Encouraging the Least Frequent Late-Night Studies