Best College Majors for Your Personality Type

Our education experts here at MastersDegree.net have analyzed the main characteristics of all 16 MBTI personality types and come up with a list of five top degrees/majors to pursue, depending on your personality type.

If you’re reading this analysis on MBTI personality types and their ideal majors, you probably know what the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is. If not, here’s some background information:

The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is a self-report questionnaire designed to assess and categorize individuals based on their preferences in how they perceive the world and make decisions. It was developed by Isabel Myers and Katharine Briggs, building upon the theories of Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung.

The MBTI divides people into one of 16 personality types based on these four pairings:

Extraversion (E) vs. Introversion (I)
Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N)
Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F)
Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P)

You can find more information on each of these letters at the end of this article.

Combining the preferences from each of these main pairings results in one of the 16 possible personality types (e.g., INTJ, ESFP).

Here’s a visual breakdown of the most fitting college majors for each personality type, according to MastersDegree.net:

1. ISTJ

Demographics: 15.9% of the global population.

ISTJs are known for being honest, logical, and dependable. Their keen sense of responsibility makes them reliable anchors in any professional setting. With a calm, practical approach, they are a force in creating and upholding order, making them invaluable assets in structured environments.

In the workplace, ISTJs are typically seen as the embodiment of the diligent employee. They flourish in spaces with clear hierarchies, distinct rules, and a pronounced respect for authority. They are drawn to careers that provide dependable pay, benefits, and clear growth opportunities.

Given these strengths and inclinations, ISTJs would excel in fields that mirror their inherent traits.

Here are the best ISTJ majors:

Business Administration or Management. This degree aligns with their knack for order and structure.
Accounting or Finance. This degree resonates with an ISTJ’s honest, detail-oriented nature.
Law. Studying law fits their respect for hierarchy and defined rules.
Engineering. A degree in Engineering complements their practical and systematic approach.
Dentistry. Studying Dentistry, which requires precision and responsibility, is also a suitable path.

2. ISTP

Demographics: 9.8% of the global population.

ISTPs are characterized by their optimistic and energetic nature. Their creativity, paired with a practical mindset, allows them to approach problems uniquely. Being spontaneous yet rational, they have a knack for prioritizing tasks effectively, especially in high-pressure situations. ISTPs stand out for their calm and effective responses in a crisis.

In the workplace, ISTPs thrive in environments that offer unpredictability and excitement. They are most productive when given autonomy and a tangible problem to tackle.

ISTPs prefer addressing urgent issues with direct solutions. They often steer clear of roles that emphasize brainstorming, conceptual thinking, or future planning, as they may see these tasks as unproductive.

Here are the best ISTP majors:

Computer Science. A field that offers hands-on problem-solving and a blend of creativity and practicality.
Mechanical Engineering. Aligns with their spontaneous yet rational approach to tangible challenges.
Economics. Allows them to apply their skills in prioritizing and understanding complex systems.
Biology. Offers a mix of hands-on experimentation and analytical challenges, suiting their energetic and creative nature.
Mathematical Sciences. Taps into their rational mindset and ability to see patterns and solutions.

3. ISFJ

Demographics: 8.4% of the global population.

ISFJs are inherently supportive and reliable individuals. Their keen, observant nature and unwavering enthusiasm make them hardworking and invaluable team members. They excel in roles where service and dedication take center stage.

People can always trust ISFJs for their compassion and attentiveness, ensuring concerns are heard and addressed. ISFJs find deep satisfaction in deriving practical solutions to everyday problems. They prefer work environments where team members collaborate and support each other.

Here are some of the best ISFJ majors:

Nursing. Aligns with their supportive nature and desire to care for others.
Psychology. Allows them to leverage their observant and understanding characteristics to help individuals navigate their emotions and behaviors.
Social Work. Reflects their dedication to service and their ability to listen and address concerns.
Elementary Education. Taps into their enthusiasm and reliable nature, fostering a nurturing environment for young minds.
Public Health. Suits their hardworking nature and commitment to the well-being of the community.

4. ISFP

Demographics: 6.6% of the global population.

ISFPs are naturally charming and exhibit a sensitivity to those around them. Their imagination, combined with their passionate nature, makes them both curious and artistic. Professionally, ISFPs gravitate towards roles that allow them freedom and flexibility, shying away from rigid, tradition-bound environments.

They thrive when they can authentically express themselves and deeply value recognition and appreciation for their contributions.

Here are some of the best ISFP majors:

Fine Arts. Aligns with their artistic and imaginative qualities, allowing them to express their creativity.
Public Relations. Taps into their charming nature and sensitivity to communicate and connect effectively with diverse audiences.
Environmental Science. Reflects their curious and passionate nature, focusing on the well-being of our planet.
Nursing. Suits their sensitivity to others, providing care and comfort to patients.
Physical Education. Allows them to combine their passion and spontaneity while fostering an active environment.

5. INTJ

Demographics: 2.6% of the global population.

INTJs stand out with their rational and informed approach. Their independence is complemented by unwavering determination, curiosity, and originality. Professionally, INTJs prefer to operate based on their high personal standards and might find working in careers with no specific purpose challenging.

Here are the best INTJ majors:

Economics. Taps into their rational and informed decision-making capabilities.
Mathematics Education. Aligns with their original and determined approach to problem-solving.
Computer Science/Computer Engineering. Offers a realm to apply their curiosity and innovative spirit.
Legal Studies. Suits their independent and informed nature, focusing on structured reasoning.
Business Administration or Management. Reflects their high standards and determination for organizational success.

6. INTP

Demographics: 4.8% of the global population.

INTPs are naturally analytical and showcase a unique blend of originality and thoughtfulness. Their curious nature combined with an objective approach makes them highly sought-after thinkers. At work, INTPs thrive in environments that provide intellectual challenges and grant them the autonomy to explore their ideas without being bogged down by mundane tasks or excessive social obligations.

They are often deep thinkers, generating numerous insights and ideas, sometimes at a pace that even they find overwhelming. INTPs excel at identifying issues, pinpointing problems, and proposing strategic, forward-thinking solutions.

Here are the best INTP majors:

Economics. Engages their analytical mind and curiosity to study market behaviors and trends.
Architecture. Taps into their originality and objective thinking, focusing on design and structure.
Environmental Science. Reflects their open-mindedness and curiosity in understanding and solving ecological challenges.
Computer Science. Offers a playground for their analytical skills to solve complex digital puzzles.
Philosophy. Allows them to delve deep into their thoughts and explore the abstract concepts they frequently contemplate.

7. INFJ

Demographics: 2.3% of the global population.

INFJs are a blend of creativity and insight, often driven by their principles. They’re deeply passionate, with an innate tendency towards altruism. INFJs are most fulfilled in the workplace when they can contribute positively to others and align their tasks with personal growth. ‘

INFJs typically enjoy working independently or in small, harmonious teams. They value calm, consistent work that has tangible outcomes. Many INFJs are drawn to roles in the arts, education, or roles centered on humanitarian and social causes.

Here are the best INFJ majors:

Psychology. Aligns with their insightful nature, allowing them to understand and help individuals on a deep level.
Nursing or Healthcare. Suits their altruistic tendencies, offering direct opportunities to care for others.
Social Work. Emphasizes their passion for ensuring fairness and providing assistance to those in need.
Human Resource Management. Reflects their principled nature in ensuring that workplace environments are fair and staff are well cared for.
Education. Allows them to foster growth and understanding in students, aligning with their passion for personal and societal development.

8. INFP

Demographics: 6.4% of the global population.

INFPs are naturally empathetic, generous, and open-minded. Their creative and passionate spirit is guided by a strong set of ideals. In the workplace, INFPs are driven by purpose.

They seek roles that not only challenge them but also resonate with their core values. It’s crucial for them to feel emotionally and morally connected to their work, constantly reassured that their efforts have a positive impact on others. INFPs have a strong affinity for writing and visual arts. Even if they don’t pursue a career in these fields, they tend to integrate these talents into their everyday tasks.

Here are the best INFP majors:

English. Their empathetic and creative nature can deeply connect with literature, allowing them to express and understand human emotions.
Fine Arts. Allows them to channel their creativity and passion, manifesting their innermost feelings and ideas.
Psychology. Resonates with their innate understanding and empathy for others, enabling them to dive deeper into the human psyche.
Journalism. Their open-mindedness and passion for storytelling fit well into uncovering and sharing truths.
Education. Empowering and guiding young minds aligns with their idealistic and generous nature, letting them make lasting positive impacts.

9. ESTJ

Demographics: 9% of the global population.

ESTJs are characterized by their dedication and strong will. They are straightforward and result-driven. This, combined with their loyalty, patience, and reliability, makes them good contributors in various professional settings. Regardless of their position, ESTJs excel in roles where they can manage individuals, structures, or processes.

They find satisfaction in creating order and are excellent at organizing, ensuring that tasks are executed to the highest possible standards.

Here are the best ESTJ majors:

Legal Studies. Their direct and honest nature, paired with their love for order, resonates with the structured world of law.
Public Relations. Their strong-willed and dedicated attributes can be advantageous in managing public images and perceptions.
Finance. Enjoying the creation of order, they can excel in the systematic world of finance.
Accounting. Their aptitude for organization makes them proficient in handling numbers and financial structures.
Business Administration. As excellent organizers, they can efficiently manage and lead teams, ensuring the smooth running of businesses.

10. ESTP

Demographics: 6.1% of the global population.

ESTPs are undeniably bold individuals who exhibit rational and practical thinking while being innately original. Their perceptive nature, coupled with their directness, makes them both insightful and straightforward in their approach. They thrive in careers that offer the freedom to innovate, brainstorm ideas, and experiment.

Their energy and a hint of spontaneity allow them to tackle problems head-on. ESTPs are highly adaptable, quickly turning any situation into something interesting.

Here are the best ESTP majors:

Biology. Their perceptive nature aligns well with the detailed observation required in this field.
Finance. The practical and rational thinking of ESTPs aids in financial decision-making and analysis.
Marketing. Their sociability and originality can lead to innovative marketing strategies.
Journalism. Being direct and loving to share stories, they can excel in reporting and storytelling.
Entrepreneurial Management. Their boldness and adaptability serve them well in the dynamic world of startups and business ventures.

11. ESFJ

Demographics: 5.7% of the global population.

ESFJs excel in environments that prioritize harmony and clear social structures. With their natural warmth and strong practical skills, they’re adept at ensuring everyone understands their roles and responsibilities. Their loyalty is unmatched, and they have a remarkable ability to connect with others. They are the glue that binds everyone together.

The expectation for clear hierarchies and respect for authority is ingrained in them. This inclination towards structured environments and their natural interpersonal skills make specific academic fields especially suitable for them.

Here are the best ESFJ majors:

Nursing. Their sensitivity and warmth align with the caring nature required in nursing.
Chemistry. The structured, methodical approach of ESFJs can be put to good use in the field of chemistry.
Psychology. Their inherent ability to connect with others resonates with the demands of psychology.
Public Relations. The ESFJ’s loyalty and adeptness at building connections make them natural fits for public relations roles.
Marketing. Their practical skills and understanding of people can be pivotal in crafting effective marketing strategies.

12. ESFP

Demographics: 6% of the global population.

ESFPs are innately vibrant and innovative, often drawing attention with their sense of aesthetics. Practicality and observance are core to their nature, enabling them to perceive nuances in their environment effortlessly. Their exceptional people skills stem from their desire to foster a friendly and enjoyable atmosphere.

By blending their relaxed air with a hands-on approach, they can rally others towards achieving practical objectives. ESFPs might not favor conventional office settings, but they often excel in flexible environments like start-ups, creative agencies, or smaller growth-oriented companies.

Here are the best ESFP majors:

Education. Their people skills and originality make them engaging educators, capable of captivating students.
Public Relations. Their bold nature and ability to relate to others are key in building and maintaining public image.
Social Work. The ESFP’s observational skills and empathy align with the requirements of understanding and assisting diverse individuals.
Interior Design. Their strong sense of aesthetics allows them to create functional and visually appealing spaces.
Health Science. Their practical and observant nature makes them adept at understanding and promoting well-being.

13. ENTJ

Demographics: 1.8% of the global population.

ENTJs are powerhouses in the professional world, radiating efficiency, energy, and self-confidence. Their formidable will and strategic foresight place them several steps ahead, making them excellent leaders.

Their charismatic nature not only motivates but also inspires those around them. ENTJs excel in roles where they can apply logic and concrete information to problem-solving. They’re decisive and thrive in careers that value their sharp analytical skills.

Naturally inclined towards leadership, they thrive in roles of authority and influence, while roles with limited decision-making power might not appeal to them.

Here are the best ENTJ majors:

Economics. Their strategic thinking aptly aligns with understanding and predicting economic trends.
Business Administration or Management. Their energetic leadership style is tailor-made for managerial roles, ensuring operational efficiency.
Law. With their strong will and analytical mind, they’re adept at navigating the complexities of legal systems.
Political Science. Their charisma and confidence make them standout candidates for roles in governance and policy-making.
Human Resource Management. Their ability to inspire and manage people can be channeled into human capital development and organizational strategy.

14. ENTP

Demographics: 4.3% of the global population.

ENTPs are dynamic and innovative, characterized by their expansive knowledge and quick-thinking abilities. Their originality makes them exceptional at brainstorming, often coming up with out-of-the-box solutions. Their charismatic and energetic nature allows them to engage and captivate those around them.

In a professional setting, ENTPs champion the principle of meritocracy. ENTPs often choose careers that let them innovate and offer fresh ideas. They push both their peers and subordinates to be innovative and solution-oriented.

Here are the best ENTP majors:

Business Administration. Their charisma and original thinking are assets in the dynamic world of business.
Computer Science. Their quick thinking and problem-solving skills align well with the challenges of coding and software development.
Journalism. Their knowledge and energy can be harnessed to investigate and narrate compelling stories.
Education. As excellent brainstormers, they can inspire and cultivate creativity in students.
Legal Studies. Their love for debate and robust discussions positions them well in the legal field.

15. ENFJ

Demographics: 2.2% of the global population.

ENFJs are inherently warm-hearted and idealistic, exuding a natural charisma that draws people to them. ENFJs naturally connect with others by understanding their values, helping, this way, to resolve conflicts within a group. This makes them well-suited for roles where human interaction is key, regardless of their position in an organizational hierarchy.

Here are the best ENFJ majors:

Psychology. Their receptive nature and charisma make them adept at understanding and helping others.
Education. Their passion and reliability can inspire and guide students to success.
Health Sciences. With their altruism, they are positioned to care for and uplift others in the healthcare field.
Public Relations. Charismatic and socially skilled, they can expertly navigate the world of PR.
Social Work. Their passion for helping and understanding others shines in roles that focus on community and individual well-being.

16. ENFP

Demographics: 8.2% of the global population.

ENFPs are naturally curious and perceptive, bringing a vibrant enthusiasm to their environments. Their festive and good-natured personalities and excellent communication skills allow them to foster creativity and inspiration in their workplaces.

They often seek careers that allow them to be creative, engage with new individuals, and contribute to innovative solutions.

Here are the best ENFP majors:

Advertising. Their enthusiasm and creativity can craft compelling campaigns.
Journalism. Their curious nature drives them to uncover and communicate stories.
Media and Communications. As excellent communicators, they thrive in roles where they can convey ideas and narratives.
Education (Elementary or Secondary). Their festive spirit and perceptive insights inspire and engage students.
Social Work. Their good-natured approach enables them to connect and help individuals in diverse communities.

Background Information on Each of the Four Main Pairings

Extraversion (E) vs. Introversion (I)
- Extraversion (E): People with a preference for Extraversion tend to be outward-turning and are energized by interacting with others. They often prefer group activities, are talkative, and seek social stimulation. Extraverts usually feel comfortable in social situations and enjoy engaging in external activities.
- Introversion (I): Introverted individuals are inward-turning and often feel more comfortable in solitary or one-on-one situations. They might find large group settings draining and prefer to spend time reflecting on their thoughts and feelings. Introverts often have a rich inner life and enjoy deep, meaningful conversations.
Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N)
- Sensing (S): Sensing individuals tend to focus on the present moment and rely on concrete, tangible data they can perceive directly through their senses. They are detail-oriented and prefer facts and practical solutions.
- Intuition (N): Those with a preference for Intuition are more future-oriented and rely on abstract concepts, patterns, and possibilities. They are often imaginative and like to think about the bigger picture or the underlying meaning of things.
Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F)
- Thinking (T): Thinking individuals base their decisions primarily on logic and objective analysis. They tend to be analytical, objective, and may sometimes seem detached or critical.
- Feeling (F): People with a Feeling preference make decisions based on values, emotions, and the potential impact on people. They tend to be empathetic, compassionate, and are often concerned with harmony and the feelings of others.
Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P)
- Judging (J): Judging types like structure and prefer to have plans and organized ways of doing things. They feel more comfortable when decisions are made, and they know what to expect.
- Perceiving (P): Perceptive individuals are more flexible and open-ended in their approach. They prefer to keep their options open and are comfortable with spontaneity and adaptability.

Read more about what each of these letters stands for at MBTIonline.com.

Methodology for Matching Personality Types with Majors

Objective:

To provide a tailored guide that aligns specific Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) personality types with suitable academic majors, enhancing the likelihood of professional satisfaction and success.

Steps:

MBTI Analysis: Reviewed the distinct characteristics associated with each of the 16 MBTI personality types.
Education Expert Evaluation: Our education experts at MastersDegree.net closely examined the unique attributes of all 16 personality types.
Degree Mapping: Based on the in-depth analysis, our team identified and listed the top five degrees/majors most congruent with each personality type’s traits and tendencies.
Feedback and Iteration: Our initial findings were reviewed and refined based on feedback from both education professionals and individuals representing various MBTI types.

Note: While our guide pinpoints five optimal majors for each of the 16 personalities, it’s important to recognize that these suggestions are not exhaustive. Every personality type has the potential to excel in various fields beyond what’s listed.

For journalists or individuals who want to explore more degrees tailored to a specific personality, or for further inquiries, please reach out to us at [email protected].