What term describes the subject of specialization chosen by a student in higher education?

The term that describes the subject of specialization chosen by a student in higher education is "major." A major represents the primary area of study that a student focuses on during their college or university education, typically involving a specific set of courses and requirements that develop expertise in that discipline. This pathway allows students to gain in-depth knowledge and skills relevant to their chosen field, which can significantly influence their career opportunities after graduation.

In contrast, the other options refer to different but related concepts in academic settings. A minor is a secondary field of study that often requires fewer courses than a major. A concentration can refer to a specialized area within a major, allowing for further focus on a specific topic within that broader field. A pathway often denotes a structured route through academic programs, sometimes including required courses or experiences that lead to a particular career or educational outcome. Each of these plays a role in a student's education but does not define the primary area of study as definitively as a major does.