New Majors at UT Austin

Public Affairs (LBJ School of Public Affairs)

The Public Affairs major prepares students to become leaders in government, nonprofit, and public service organizations. Students gain expertise in policy analysis, data analytics, and organizational leadership, equipping them to address complex social and political challenges. Graduates are trained to analyze policies, manage resources effectively, and lead in areas that impact the public good.

Civic Honors (School of Civic Leadership)

Civic Honors is a unique major designed for students who wish to delve deeply into the great ideas of Western civilization. Through the study of classical texts, philosophy, and political theory, students wrestle with timeless questions about democracy, justice, and human nature. This program is ideal for those who are passionate about leadership, civic engagement, and making thoughtful contributions to society.

Behavioral and Social Data Science (College of Liberal Arts)

The Behavioral and Social Data Science major merges the fields of psychology and data science, creating a program that focuses on human behavior and social interactions. Students in this major develop skills in data analysis, machine learning, and data visualization, preparing them to interpret large-scale data sets in order to understand and predict behavioral trends. This interdisciplinary approach is ideal for students interested in psychology, economics, and data-driven decision-making.

Human Relations Communication (Moody College of Communication)

This major focuses on fostering healthy communication in a variety of settings, including families, healthcare environments, and intercultural contexts. Students learn about the complexities of human relationships and how to effectively communicate to build strong, positive interactions. Whether working in healthcare, social work, or family services, graduates from this program are equipped to promote understanding and cooperation among diverse groups.

Global and Intercultural Communication (Moody College of Communication)

In today’s globalized world, understanding different cultures and perspectives is more important than ever. The Global and Intercultural Communication major teaches students how to navigate the complexities of opinions, values, and communication across national and cultural boundaries. Students learn how to manage issues in global, local, and organizational contexts, making this major an excellent fit for those interested in international business, diplomacy, or global media.

Strategic and Risk Communication (Moody College of Communication)

This major addresses the growing need for professionals who can craft effective communication strategies in high-risk situations. Students learn how to identify target audiences, develop customized communication plans, and manage crisis and risk communication. Graduates are prepared to work in fields such as public relations, emergency management, and corporate communication, where managing public perception and disseminating crucial information is key.

X+Computer Science (College of Natural Sciences)

The X+Computer Science program allows students to pair their interest in computer science with another discipline, such as neuroscience, linguistics, or another scientific field. This interdisciplinary approach gives students the chance to combine their passions and leverage the power of computer science to solve problems in fields like brain research, language processing, or even environmental science. With the flexibility to customize their degree, students in this program are well-prepared for careers in research, technology, or interdisciplinary innovation.

Climate System Science (Jackson School of Geosciences)

The Climate System Science major focuses on understanding the Earth’s climate and the factors that drive climate change. Students explore the science behind weather patterns, ocean currents, and atmospheric processes, gaining the tools to model and predict changes in the Earth’s climate. Graduates from this program are equipped to address the global climate crisis through careers in environmental science, policy, and sustainability efforts.

Summary

UT Austin continues to expand its academic offerings with majors that reflect the changing landscape of the modern world. From leadership in civic engagement to cutting-edge data science, strategic communication, and interdisciplinary research, these new programs offer students diverse pathways to success. Each major is designed to provide not just technical skills but also the critical thinking, leadership, and creativity necessary to thrive in complex, evolving fields. As UT Austin continues to innovate, students can find exciting opportunities to align their passions with academic and professional success.