Average GPA by College Major

Discover which majors have the highest and lowest average GPAs.

Did you know that average GPAs vary significantly between fields of study? Research shows that STEM fields often have higher grading rigor than humanities.

Computer Science

Avg GPA3.13
Difficulty:High

Known for rigorous coursework in algorithms, data structures, and mathematics. Grading curves are often strict in foundational courses.

Nursing

Avg GPA3.42
Difficulty:High

Requires high precision and significant clinical hours. Most programs have strict GPA minimums for retention.

Business Administration

Avg GPA3.28
Difficulty:Medium

A balanced mix of quantitative analysis and qualitative management studies. Average GPAs tend to be slightly higher than STEM fields.

Engineering

Avg GPA3.09
Difficulty:Very High

Consistently ranked as one of the most difficult majors due to heavy math and physics requirements. Grade deflation is common.

Biology

Avg GPA3.18
Difficulty:High

Challenging due to extensive lab work and memorization requirements. Often serves as a pre-med track with competitive grading.

Psychology

Avg GPA3.38
Difficulty:Medium

Focuses on research methods and behavioral science. Generally has a higher average GPA compared to hard sciences.

Education

Avg GPA3.55
Difficulty:Medium-Low

Typically has some of the highest average GPAs. Focus is on practical application and student teaching.

Fine Arts

Avg GPA3.47
Difficulty:Medium

Grading is often project-based and can be more subjective than traditional academic subjects.

Economics

Avg GPA3.15
Difficulty:High

Requires strong mathematical and analytical skills. Often graded on a curve to distinguish top performers.

Chemistry

Avg GPA3.05
Difficulty:Very High

Notorious for 'weed-out' courses in organic chemistry. High workload and difficult laboratory requirements.

Want more data?

Our academic research team is continuously updating this list with data from over 1,000 universities.