College majors that make a difference

Do you want to impact your community? Make a difference in the world? Carthage College offers 75+ areas of study with many majors that can help you make a difference.

Whether you’re passionate about healthcare, social justice, or environmental sustainability, Carthage offers numerous programs designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge to effect meaningful change. Explore eight majors below that can empower you to significantly impact the lives of others and contribute to a better world.

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1. Biology Major

Biology majors are dedicated to studying life, from the simplest plants and animals to the complex structures of humans. The field explores how organisms develop, function, and interact with each other and their environment. 

The versatility of a biology degree allows individuals to work directly with organisms to promote conservation, contribute to life-saving medical research, or study ways to protect endangered species. By advancing our understanding of life at all levels, biology majors help shape a healthier, more sustainable world, influencing both the natural world and the lives of those who inhabit it.

Impactful careers in biology:

Learn about studying biology at carthage

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2. Criminal Justice Major

Criminal justice majors examine the institutions that make up the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, legal processes, corrections, and crime prevention. This field explores the causes and consequences of crime, as well as how society responds to criminal behavior through laws, policies, and institutions.

Criminal justice professionals can make a difference by upholding the law, ensuring fair trials, and protecting society. The criminal justice major can lead to career opportunities in different fields, including law enforcement, advocacy, criminology, and more, helping to improve the effectiveness of the criminal justice system.

Impactful careers in criminal justice:

learn about studying criminal justice at carthage

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3. Education Major

Education majors study how people learn and how to create effective teaching methods. Many education majors become teachers, working with students from all kinds of backgrounds, learning about different ideas, and helping the next generation grow.

Education leaders have the power to influence the future of individuals and communities by fostering creativity, critical thinking, and social skills. They also work to ensure all students have access to a good education, influence school policies, and create inclusive classrooms where everyone can thrive.

Impactful careers in education:

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4. Environmental Science Major

Environmental science majors take courses in biology, chemistry, economics, geospatial science, and political science to become natural scientists and policy analysts. Students can focus in specialty fields, such as environmental conservation, environmental analysis, and environmental policy.

Individuals with an environmental science degree can make a big impact by promoting sustainability, working on solutions to climate change, and pushing for laws that protect the environment. They also help conserve natural habitats and make sure resources are used responsibly. Their work is important for creating a healthier planet for future generations. 

Impactful careers in environmental science:

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5. History Major

History majors study historical records of human activities and analyze how these events, cultures, and societies helped shape the present. Students read, interpret, and analyze a variety of texts, sources, and other historical pieces. 

History majors can make a difference by applying their knowledge to address current issues such as social justice, cultural preservation, and global conflicts. They work in fields like education, public history, museums, archives, and policy analysis, helping to preserve important narratives, foster critical thinking, and guide informed decision-making in both public and private sectors.

Impactful careers in history:

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6. Nursing Major

Those who study nursing learn not only about medical treatments and procedures, but also how to communicate effectively with patients and their families, making a real difference in people’s lives.

Nurses play a crucial role in promoting health, preventing illness, and providing compassionate care to patients, whether that’s in hospitals, homes, schools, or communities. For those passionate about science, helping others, and making an impact in people’s lives, a nursing career can be a fulfilling way to contribute to society while also gaining the job security and personal rewards of a respected profession.

Impactful careers in nursing:

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7. Political Science Major

Political science majors gain an understanding of political institutions and discover the responsibilities of intelligent citizenship. They focus on studying how governments work, how laws are made, and how power is distributed and used in societies.

Individuals with a political science degree can become leaders in creating positive change, whether through working in government, influencing public policy, advocating for social justice, or even shaping the future of elections. Political science offers the tools to shape a better world for everyone.

Impactful careers in political science:

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8. Social Work Major 

Social work majors focus on helping individuals, families, and communities overcome challenges and improve their well-being. By studying social work, students learn how to provide support, connect people to resources, and promote social justice.

Social workers are advocates for people facing difficult situations, such as poverty, mental health issues, or family problems. Social workers can work in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, social service agencies, and nonprofit organizations, directly impacting the lives of those who need it most.

Impactful careers in social work:

Learn about studying social work at carthage

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Undecided?

If you’re unsure of what you want to major in, Carthage allows students to enter undecided, giving them the opportunity to explore different studies to figure out what they’re passionate about. 

See resources for undecided students

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