Best Majors for Consulting: What Degrees Do Firms Prefer?

Consulting offers a chance to tackle exciting challenges and create real-world solutions that make a lasting impact. It’s a field that rewards problem-solvers, strategic thinkers, and innovators. But to land a consulting job, it's not just about having the right skills—it's also about having the right degree. With so many majors to choose from, how do you pick the best one for a consulting career?

In this article, we’ll walk you through the top majors that can help you stand out in the consulting world. We’ll show you why these degrees are highly valued in consulting and how they help develop the skills you'll need to succeed. Plus, we’ll share insights on how to shape your education to set yourself up for success.

What Are the Top Majors for Consulting?

When you think about pursuing a career in consulting, you’ll want to choose a major that equips you with the skills to think critically, solve problems, and communicate clearly. Consulting firms value these abilities because they are key to tackling the complex business problems their clients face. Here are the top majors to consider if you're looking to break into consulting.

1. Business

If you’re thinking about consulting, a Business degree might just be the perfect choice for you. It gives you a solid understanding of the core aspects of business, like marketing, finance, operations, and strategy. Consulting firms love candidates with a comprehensive knowledge of how businesses work, and this major will help you develop exactly that.

Not only will you learn the ins and outs of business operations, but you’ll also pick up key leadership and decision-making skills. These are crucial when you're working on client projects or leading teams. If you're someone who enjoys tackling business challenges and stepping up to lead, Business Administration could be your ticket to success in consulting.

2. Economics

Economics is one of the most versatile majors for consulting, providing a strong foundation in analytical thinking, data interpretation, and market understanding. As a consultant, you'll often analyze financial performance, assess market trends, and forecast outcomes—all core skills developed through studying economics.

By understanding microeconomics (how businesses operate) and macroeconomics (how economies function), you'll be able to identify the root causes of business problems and recommend effective strategies. Economics also sharpens your problem-solving and decision-making abilities, making you a strong candidate for both strategy and economic consulting roles.

3. Engineering

Engineering degrees—whether in mechanical, electrical, civil, or software fields—stand out in consulting because they cultivate problem-solving, critical thinking, and project management skills. Engineers are trained to break down complex challenges, analyze data, and develop innovative solutions—exactly what consultants do daily.

Many consulting firms, including McKinsey and BCG, actively recruit engineers for their ability to think logically, manage projects, and adapt to new challenges. Engineering majors often excel in operations consulting, technology consulting, and digital transformation projects.

4. Finance

A Finance degree prepares you for consulting roles that involve financial strategy, corporate restructuring, and performance optimization. Consultants frequently work with clients to improve profitability, reduce costs, and assess investment opportunities—all areas where financial expertise is crucial.

Finance majors develop strong analytical and quantitative skills, including financial modeling, risk assessment, and budgeting. This background helps consultants provide data-driven recommendations that align with a company's financial goals.

5. Mathematics

Mathematics is a top consulting major because it trains you to approach problems logically, think critically, and analyze data effectively. In consulting, you'll often work with large datasets to identify trends, model solutions, and support strategic recommendations.

Whether you're advising clients on operational improvements, market strategies, or risk management, the quantitative skills developed in a mathematics program will be invaluable. This major is particularly well-suited for strategy consulting, financial consulting, and data-driven consulting roles.

6. Computer Science

In today's digital age, technology plays a crucial role in business success, making Computer Science an increasingly popular major for consulting. This degree equips you with programming, system analysis, and data management skills, all of which are highly sought after by consulting firms.

Computer Science majors often work on digital transformation projects, IT system optimization, and cybersecurity strategies. If you're interested in technology consulting or want to help clients implement innovative solutions, a Computer Science background can set you apart.

7. Accounting

While Accounting may seem more aligned with auditing than consulting, it’s actually a strong choice for financial consulting, risk management, and operational improvement projects. Accounting majors develop expertise in financial reporting, auditing, and tax regulations—key areas where consultants often advise clients.

In consulting, you might help businesses streamline their financial operations, improve cost structures, or ensure compliance with industry regulations. This major is particularly valuable for roles in financial advisory, performance improvement, and restructuring consulting.

8. Psychology

Psychology might not be the first major that comes to mind for consulting, but it offers unique advantages. Understanding human behavior, decision-making, and team dynamics can make you a powerful consultant, especially when working on organizational change, leadership development, or consumer behavior projects.

Psychology majors are particularly suited for consulting roles in human capital, organizational transformation, and customer experience. Whether you're helping a company improve employee engagement or advising on user-centered design, a background in Psychology will give you an edge.

9. Political Science

Political Science is an excellent major for consultants working with government agencies, public-sector organizations, or clients navigating regulatory environments. This degree develops research, policy analysis, and communication skills—key for advising clients on complex challenges.

If you're interested in public-sector consulting, policy advisory, or corporate strategy, Political Science provides the critical thinking and problem-solving abilities needed to succeed.

10. Law

A Law degree is highly valuable for consultants specializing in risk management, regulatory compliance, mergers and acquisitions, or corporate governance. Law majors excel at analyzing complex information, negotiating solutions, and ensuring adherence to industry regulations.

If you’re interested in helping clients navigate legal complexities or advising on strategic initiatives with regulatory considerations, a background in Law can be a significant asset.

11. Philosophy

Philosophy might not seem like an obvious choice for consulting, but it develops critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and problem-solving skills. Philosophy majors excel at analyzing complex problems, questioning assumptions, and developing well-structured arguments.

These skills are essential for strategy consulting, where consultants must think creatively and present clear, evidence-based recommendations. If you enjoy intellectual challenges and want to approach business problems from a unique angle, Philosophy could be an excellent foundation.

12. Physics

Physics majors bring strong analytical and problem-solving skills to consulting, making them valuable for technical, operational, and strategy projects. Studying Physics trains you to model complex systems, interpret data, and develop evidence-based solutions.

Consulting firms value Physics graduates for their ability to approach challenges systematically and think creatively under pressure. If you're interested in technology, energy, or operations consulting, a Physics degree provides the skills to excel.

13. Chemistry

The analytical thinking, problem-solving, and project management skills developed in a Chemistry major are essential for advising clients on product development, process optimization, and sustainability initiatives. This makes Chemistry a top major choice for those who are interested in consulting careers in the pharmaceutical, energy, or environmental sectors.

Chemistry majors often find work in specialized consulting areas, such as life sciences, environmental consulting, or supply chain optimization.

14. Environmental Science

Environmental Science is an increasingly valuable major for consulting, especially as businesses and governments prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility. This major equips you with the skills to analyze environmental impact, manage resources efficiently, and develop strategies for sustainable business practices.

With a background in Environmental Science, you can work in sustainability consulting, helping organizations reduce their carbon footprint, improve energy efficiency, and meet regulatory standards. You’ll also be well-suited for roles in environmental risk assessment, renewable energy projects, and corporate sustainability initiatives.

Consulting firms value Environmental Science majors for their ability to combine technical expertise with strategic thinking. If you're passionate about sustainability and want to help businesses adopt eco-friendly practices, this major could be your pathway to a rewarding consulting career.

15. Information Systems

Information Systems is one of the best majors for technology consulting, digital transformation, and process optimization. This degree teaches you how to design, implement, and manage IT systems, which are critical for modern business success.

As a consultant, you'll help clients improve their technology infrastructure, enhance cybersecurity, and optimize data management. If you're interested in combining business strategy with technical expertise, Information Systems is an ideal choice.

Honorable Mentions

While Business, Economics, and Engineering are popular paths to consulting, there are other majors that might surprise you. These honorable mentions might not be your first thought when you consider consulting, but they equip you with skills that are incredibly valuable in the field.

Liberal Arts

You might not immediately think of English or Sociology as consulting majors, but they can actually set you up for success in the field. Majors like English and Sociology help you develop skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication—exactly what consulting firms look for.

If you're studying English, you’re honing your ability to break down complex ideas, craft persuasive arguments, and communicate clearly—all essential when you're presenting your recommendations to clients. In consulting, you’ll need to take complicated problems and explain them in a way that’s easy for everyone to understand. Your background in English will give you the ability to simplify and clarify, which is a huge asset when advising clients.

Sociology offers a similar advantage. If you’re studying Sociology, you’re learning to understand human behavior and social dynamics, which can be invaluable in consulting. Whether you’re working on organizational culture, consumer behavior, or team dynamics, understanding people is key. As a Sociology major, you’ll already have the tools to analyze and offer insights into how individuals and groups behave, making you well-equipped for many consulting challenges.

Liberal Arts degrees might not focus on technical skills, but they provide essential problem-solving, communication, and analytical skills that are incredibly valuable in consulting. If you're passionate about understanding people and solving complex problems, a Liberal Arts major could be the perfect fit for your consulting career.

What Skills Are Essential for a Career in Consulting?

In consulting, the right major is just the start. The skills you develop along the way are what truly set you apart and make you successful. Whether you’re solving complex problems, working with clients, or leading teams, these skills will be your foundation in consulting. Let’s take a closer look at the essential skills you’ll need to thrive in this career.

Analytical Thinking

In consulting, your ability to solve problems and analyze data will be at the heart of everything you do. You’ll often be asked to break down complex problems, analyze data, and come up with actionable solutions. It's not just about crunching numbers—it's about asking the right questions, identifying patterns, and seeing the bigger picture.

Think about how you approach challenges right now. Do you analyze the situation, look for solutions, and evaluate the data? In consulting, you will be doing exactly that, helping clients solve their toughest problems with clear, data-driven insights.

Communication Skills

You can be the most knowledgeable person in the room, but if you can’t communicate your ideas clearly, it won’t matter. That’s why communication—both verbal and written—is a must-have skill for any consultant.

When you’re presenting your findings or making recommendations, you need to make sure your ideas are understood. Whether you're writing reports, speaking in meetings, or presenting to clients, you’ll need to explain complex ideas in a way that anyone can grasp. You will need to tailor your communication depending on your audience, so whether you’re talking to a CEO or a team member, your ability to communicate effectively will be key to your success.

Leadership and Teamwork

Consultants rarely work alone—most projects involve collaboration. Whether you’re working with a team of consultants or partnering with client stakeholders, leadership and teamwork are essential.

In consulting, you’ll often take the lead on projects, guiding your team and managing client relationships. But it’s just as important to be a strong team player—working well with others, listening to different perspectives, and compromising when necessary. You will need to balance taking charge with working collaboratively to ensure the project’s success. The best consultants know how to lead and work with others seamlessly.

Adaptability and Continuous Learning

The consulting world is constantly changing. Industries evolve, new technologies emerge, and business environments shift. As a consultant, you’ll need to be adaptable and always open to learning new things.

Being adaptable means staying flexible and adjusting when plans change or when new information becomes available. You will also need to keep learning, whether it’s staying updated on industry trends, mastering new software, or understanding evolving client needs. A mindset of continuous learning will help you stay ahead in the ever-changing consulting landscape and provide the best insights for your clients.

How Can You Tailor Your Education for a Consulting Career?

Your major is just the beginning. To truly stand out in consulting, you need to tailor your education with the right courses, extracurriculars, and connections. By the time you finish your degree, you'll have the skills and experiences that will make you shine in the competitive world of consulting.

Selecting Relevant Courses

If you want to break into consulting, selecting the right courses is one of the best ways to start building your skill set. Think about electives in data analysis, strategic management, or business analytics. These courses will give you the tools to analyze data and develop actionable strategies, which are key in consulting.

Even if you’re not in a business-related major, consider taking classes that focus on market research or management consulting. These electives will help you connect the dots between your technical skills and business solutions, which will be hugely beneficial when you’re advising clients.

Choosing these types of courses now will help you stay ahead of the game and build a stronger foundation for your consulting career.

Engaging in Extracurricular Activities

Extracurriculars are a game-changer when it comes to consulting. They give you the opportunity to put everything you're learning into practice and get real-world experience. Whether it’s joining a consulting club, participating in case competitions, or completing an internship, you’ll gain skills and connections that can set you apart.

Joining a consulting club or a business-related student organization gives you the chance to meet like-minded individuals and start networking early. Participating in case competitions is especially valuable—it mimics the real-life challenges consultants face, so it’s great practice. Internships, on the other hand, provide hands-on experience where you can see how consulting actually works in the field.

Get involved—you won’t regret it. These activities will not only give you the experience to talk about in interviews but will also help you build your professional network.

Networking and Mentorship

Finally, never underestimate the value of networking and mentorship. Connecting with professionals in consulting, whether through career fairs, networking events, or online platforms, can open doors to new opportunities and advice that will help you along the way.

Having a mentor in the field can be one of the best things you do for your career. A mentor can guide you, offer advice, and connect you with people who can help you get your foot in the door. Reach out to alumni, attend industry events, and don’t be shy about asking for help. Most professionals are happy to offer advice to those starting out, especially if you show initiative and enthusiasm.

Networking and mentorship will help you navigate the consulting world, giving you the support and knowledge you need to succeed.

Key Takeaways

Choosing the right major is one of the most important decisions you’ll make on your journey toward a successful consulting career. As we've discussed, majors like Business, Economics, Engineering, and Liberal Arts can all set you up for success in different ways. Each one brings its own unique set of skills—whether it’s problem-solving, data analysis, or communication—that will help you make an impact as a consultant.

But remember, it’s not just about picking the “best” major. It’s about finding the one that aligns with your strengths, interests, and long-term goals. Think about what excites you—whether it's analyzing data, understanding human behavior, or solving complex business challenges. Choose a major that not only plays to your strengths but also keeps you engaged and motivated throughout your studies.

As you consider your options, take a moment to reflect on what truly sparks your curiosity. Consulting is a dynamic and rewarding career, but it's also competitive, so making an informed choice now will put you on the right path. The best major for you is one that will keep you motivated and allow you to thrive as you build your consulting career.

Choose wisely, and you’ll be setting yourself up for success in the exciting world of consulting.